Recruitment

Last Updated : February 21, 2024

Human-Computer Interaction(HCI) Post-doctoral Fellowship

KAIST, Daejeon, South Korea

Job Description

Are you passionate about shaping the future of technology and human interaction? Do you want to be part of a dynamic and innovative academic community dedicated to advancing the field of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)? KAIST, one of South Korea’s leading research institutions, is seeking one or more talented and motivated post-doctoral fellows to join our team.

These positions will be funded by a prestigious and newly established institutional research fellowship and not tied to ongoing research projects. We particularly welcome applicants with a unique vision, an independent research agenda, and a desire to work with our faculty to expand the horizons of HCI research. 

Key Responsibilities
  • Research : Conduct groundbreaking research in the field of HCI, including user experience design, interface design, usability testing, and other related areas. Publish research findings in top-tier conferences and journals.
  • Collaboration : Collaborate with other researchers, both within KAIST and at the international level, to drive interdisciplinary research projects and bring fresh perspectives to the field.
  • Outreach : Engage with industry partners and the broader community to apply HCI principles in real-world applications and promote the importance of HCI in technology design.
  • Qualifications :
  1. Ph.D. in Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, Psychology, Design, or a related field. Applicants expecting to receive a PhD in the spring or summer of 2024 are also welcome to apply.
  2. Proven track record of high-impact research in HCI, as demonstrated by publications in top conferences and journals.
  3. Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to mentor students effectively.
  4. Experience in securing research funding and conducting collaborative research projects.
  5. A passion for pushing the boundaries of technology and enhancing the user experience.
Why KAIST?

KAIST is consistently ranked among the world’s top research universities and is known for its commitment to innovation and excellence. HCI@KAIST (https://hci.kaist.ac.kr/), a cross-departmental group including faculty from computer science, industrial design, culture technology, and electrical engineering, supports a large and vibrant HCI research community with a broad range of state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive environment for both researchers and students.

As a post-doctoral researcher in HCI at KAIST, you will have access to:

  • Competitive salary and benefits.
  • Independent research grant
  • Outstanding research facilities and resources.
  • A collaborative and diverse academic environment.
  • Opportunities for industry collaboration and project funding.
HCI@KAIST

HCI@KAIST (https://hci.kaist.ac.kr/) provides a supportive and embracing umbrella group for all HCI research activity at KAIST. Its 20+ faculty body includes members of the SIGCHI Academy and IEEE fellows and encompasses a very broad range of interests including, but not limited to, the following:

  • AR/VR/MR:  We explore immersive technologies that enhance human-computer interaction by blending digital and physical worlds in domains from gaming and education to healthcare and industrial training. Ongoing research is refining the hardware, developing realistic simulations, and exploring the potential societal impact of these technologies.
  • Social Computing: We conduct research at the intersection of computer science and social behavior, aiming to understand how technology influences and is influenced by social interactions. We explore topics such as online communities, social media dynamics, and the impact of digital platforms on communication patterns. We seek to understand the social implications of computing technologies, informing the design of more inclusive and effective digital spaces.
  • AI and Organizations: We aim to support the design and evaluation of data science and AI systems for end-users in organizations based on sociotechnical considerations of end-users data practices and overall work practices. We take a range of methodological, disciplinary, and theoretical approaches spanning HCI, CSCW, and STS, as well as management and organizational theory.
  • Interface and Interaction Design: We seek to optimize and improve the user experience of digital technology by studying the design and functionality of user interfaces. We explore innovative ways to enhance user interactions with software and hardware, striving to create intuitive and user-friendly systems. We aim to improve the efficiency, accessibility, and overall satisfaction of users engaging with technology through thoughtful and well-designed interfaces.
  • Healthcare and Wellbeing:  We strive to enhance individual and community health by exploring innovative digital technologies for tracking and intervening in health scenarios. We design and implement digital solutions, such as mobile health apps and wearable devices, to monitor health metrics, provide personalized feedback, and promote healthy behaviors. We seek to leverage technology to empower individuals in managing their well-being and contribute to advancements in preventive and personalized healthcare.
  • Digital Fabrication: We explore how advances in computer-controlled manufacturing processes, such as 3D printing and CNC machining, can enhance our abilities to create diverse physical objects from digital designs. We explore new materials, techniques, and software to optimize the precision, speed, and scalability of manufacturing processes. We aim to revolutionize production methods, making them more accessible and customizable, and apply our to applications ranging from prototyping and construction to personalized manufacturing.
Living in Daejeon

Daejeon is a hub for research, technology, and academia and supports a thriving international community. In addition to KAIST, it is home to many other national research institutions and facilities and is at the forefront of technological innovation in Korea. Come live in a city that values groundbreaking research and fosters an environment where your ideas can flourish!

  • Work-Life Balance:
    Daejeon boasts a vibrant lifestyle with a perfect balance between work and leisure. Explore beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and a bustling food scene. With a welcoming community and a range of recreational activities, Daejeon provides an exceptional quality of life.
  • International Community:
    Daejeon embraces diversity with its growing international community. Experience the warmth of Korean hospitality while connecting with people from around the world. Immerse yourself in a rich cultural tapestry, making your time in Daejeon an enriching and unforgettable experience.
  • Transportation and Connectivity:
    Efficient public transportation, including a high-speed rail connection, ensures easy access to major cities like Seoul (just one hour away on the bullet train). Daejeon’s strategic location makes it a convenient base for exploring all that South Korea has to offer.
  • Terms of Employment
  1. Salary: 80 million KRW (approximately 60,000 USD)
  2. Period: Up to 3 years, subject to annual performance review
  3. Research Support: 20 million KRW per year as an independent research grant 
  4. Start date: Expected summer 2024
Application

If you are excited about the opportunity to shape the future of technology and HCI, and you are eager to make a significant impact in academia, industry, and beyond, we encourage you to apply and become a part of the HCI community at KAIST.

There will be a two-round application process.
In the first round, please submit
1) your CV
2) a cover letter including details of potential faculty mentors (see here: https://hci.kaist.ac.kr/labs/)
3) contact information for three professional references
4)and a signed and completed copy of this consent form: 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ao_3SSTi4OlHs7CqMZtK0z8WguyJNdGL/view?usp=sharing

These application materials and inquiries should be sent to fellowship search chair Ian Oakley <ianoakley@kaist.ac.kr> with the subject line “HCI Fellows 2024”. These applications will be reviewed from Friday 29th March 2024. Details of the second round process, expected to be concluded in April 2024, will be confirmed in due course.

Join us at KAIST and be at the forefront of HCI research and education. Together, we will explore new technological horizons and create innovative solutions that enhance how humans interact with computers and digital systems.