Full -Time Research Associate Position at the University of British Columbia (Human-AI Interaction Group, Department of Computer Science, UBC Campus)

The Human-AI Interaction group is looking for a one-year, full time research associate. The group conducts research on creating AI-driven, human-centered interactive systems.

The Research Associate will be working specifically on a funded project on developing intelligent pedagogical agents (IPAs) that support the acquisition of computational thinking skills via game-based design. The duties of the Research Associate will include

• Designing the underlying AI that drives the agents’ actions, as well as the Human-Computer Interaction aspects related to delivering the actions in an effective and user-centered manner.
• Design and run user studies aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of the IPAs.
• Participating in the supervision of the graduate students involved in the project and in the organization of the group (e.g., keep website up-to-date, plan meetings).

To apply for this position, applicants must have a PhD in computer science, and at least two years of relevant postdoctoral experience in a research institution. Desirable skills for this position include: experience in designing human-centered AI-driven interactive systems; experience in designing and running user studies; experience in educational technology; Applicants should have a strong publication record commensurate with their experience, in venues related to Human-AI Interaction, and specifically to AI in Education, such as the Journal and Conference of AI in Education (IJAIED and AIED)  User modeling and user-adapted interaction (UMUAI), ACM Trans. on interactive intelligent systems (TiiS), ACM Intelligent user interfaces (IUI). Evidence of interdisciplinary research is an asset.

The research associate is expected to participate fully in the supervision of the graduate students in the group, therefore successful application will include a demonstrated excellence of graduate supervision, as well as strong communication and leadership skills.

The UBC Department of Computer Science ranks among the top Departments in North America, with over 60 tenure-track faculty and approximately 200 graduate and 2,000 undergraduate students. Department members are recognized internationally for excellence in research, teaching and innovation. Faculty members include a Canada 150 Research Chair and several Canada Research Chairs, Fellows of prestigious societies including the Royal Society of Canada, ACM, IEEE, SIAM and the Sloan Foundation.

The anticipated start date is November 28, 2022.

The following documents are required to complete your application: CV; 3 reference letters or contact information for references; a 1-page research statement; evidence of graduate supervision effectiveness. Only completed applications will be considered.

Applications can be submitted at: https://ubc.wd10.myworkdayjobs.com/ubcfacultyjobs/job/UBC-Vancouver-Campus/Research-Associate---Intelligent-User-Interfaces-Group_JR10107-1

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person. Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.