Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Computer Science programme. The position is available from August 2026 or later.
Title:
HCI PhD Position on Multimodal Remote Collaboration
Research area and project description:
Digital platforms have transformed how we collaborate, but they consistently fail when physical objects are central to the work. Whether evaluating fabric in clothing design, assembling machinery components, or co-creating with physical prototypes, remote collaborators lose the tactile, spatial, and multisensory qualities that make these interactions meaningful.
The MIRA project (ERC Consolidator) addresses this gap. The project develops a new theoretical framework and a novel class of interactive tools called multimodal proxies that integrate visual, auditory, and haptic feedback to support richer, more effective remote interaction with physical objects.
The PhD student will work on WP1: Developing Foundational Principles.
The work involves critically analysing and synthesising principles from foundational theories (Embodied Cognition and Communication Accommodation). The PhD student will design and conduct large-scale empirical studies including interviews and observations with practitioners engaged in physical collaborative work. The PhD student will also develop approaches to systematically identify, quantify, and model technological asymmetries (the mismatches in tools, environments, and capabilities that arise when collaborators work across different physical and digital realities). This research will guide the design and evaluation of multimodal proxies throughout the rest of the project.
Familiarity with or interest in CSCW frameworks, such as articulation work, materiality, and socio-material practices is crucial.
For technical reasons, you must upload a project description. When - as here - you apply for a specific project, please simply copy the project description above, and upload it as a PDF in the application. If you wish to, you can indicate an URL where further information can be found.
Qualifications and specific competences:
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in a relevant area (e.g. Computer Science, IT, or Industrial Design) with good results and good English skills.
We are looking for a candidate with a strong background in HCI, CSCW, or a closely related field, and a genuine interest in the theoretical dimensions of interaction research. Relevant qualifications include experience with qualitative research methods, an interest in multimodal interaction or collaborative systems, and the ability to engage critically with interdisciplinary literature spanning cognitive science, psychology, and HCI. Prior experience with field studies or video analysis is an advantage.
Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Computer Science, Aabogade 34, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark.
Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact: Associate Professor Eve Hoggan (eve.hoggan@cs.au.dk)
How to apply:
For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see the Application guide. Please read the Application guide thoroughly before applying.
When ready to apply, go to https://phd.nat.au.dk/for-applicants/apply-here/ (Note, the online application system opens 1 March 2026)
Please note:
At the Faculty of Natural Science at Aarhus University, we strive to support our scientific staff in their career development. We focus on competency development and career clarification and want to make your opportunities transparent. On our website, you can find information on all types of scientific positions, as well as the entry criteria we use when assessing candidates. You can also read more about how we can assist you in your career planning and development.
Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background.
