PhD Position Cognitive Guidance in XR (AI)

TL;DR

PhD Position Cognitive Guidance in XR (AI/XR): Designing and evaluating immersive XR experiences to support independent mobility for people with disabilities with an accent on decision-making, cognitive modeling, and real-time guidance systems. Focus on integrating behavioral and physiological data using machine learning to personalize assistive training in complex public environments.

Location: Must relocate to the Netherlands (Delft)

Salary: €3,204 - €4,051 gross per month

Company

hirify.global is a world-leading technical university focusing on energy, climate, digitalization, AI, and smart mobility.

What you will do

• Design and evaluate immersive XR experiences (VR/AR/MR) for navigation in public transportation hubs, campuses, and airports.
• Investigate how modulated external stimuli influence user decision-making and motor behavior.
• Develop XR applications providing real-time guidance through visual, auditory, or haptic feedback.
• Use wearable devices and machine learning to adapt support based on physiological and cognitive data.
• Collaborate with accessibility organizations, technology developers, and lived experience experts.
• Conduct user studies and validate novel algorithms in real-world settings.

Requirements

• MSc degree in HCI, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Mechanical/Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
• Proficiency in verbal and written English required.
• Solid programming skills and experience with experimental research involving human participants.
• Background in cognitive modeling, human decision-making, or behavioral data analysis.
• Strong motivation for interdisciplinary research and ability to work independently.

Nice to have

• Track record in VR/AR/MR development using Unity or Unreal Engine.
• Knowledge of cognitive and movement sciences, AI, or machine learning.
• Experience in accessibility, inclusive design, or user experience research.

Culture & Benefits

• 4-year employment period with a two-stage contract structure.
• Competitive salary with 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• Customizable compensation package and discounts on health insurance.
• Access to the hirify.global Graduate School's doctoral education programme.
• Relocation support via the Coming to Delft Service and a Dual Career Programme for partners.
• Flexible work schedules.