Netherlands – PhD in Inclusive Human-AI Co-Creation at Eindhoven University of Technology

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Netherlands – PhD in Inclusive Human-AI Co-Creation at Eindhoven University of Technology

Join to apply for the Netherlands – PhD in Inclusive Human-AI Co-Creation at Eindhoven University of Technology role at PhDFinder

University: Eindhoven University of Technology
Country: Netherlands

Deadline: Not specified
Fields: Human-Computer Interaction, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Industrial Design, Computer Science

How can you harness the power of artificial intelligence and human-centered design to create meaningful, inclusive technologies for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)? If you are passionate about using your technical skills for social impact and aspire to pioneer new research methods in human-AI collaboration, this unique PhD opportunity at Eindhoven University of Technology may be the next step in your academic journey.

The core focus of this PhD position is the development of inclusive co-creation methodologies that enable children with ASD and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) to engage meaningfully with AI-driven technologies. The research is part of the international TACIT project (Tailored AI-Driven Co-Creation for Inclusive Digital Transformation), which seeks to advance the field of human-AI interaction by designing and validating new approaches to inclusive design and co-creation.

You will join the Department of Industrial Design and contribute to the TACIT project, collaborating with international partners across Europe. The research will explore how large language models (LLMs), interactive robotics, and multimodal technologies can foster creative expression and collaboration among children with diverse cognitive and sensory profiles. The project aims to design and validate flexible methodologies adaptable to various contexts and needs.

• Developing and refining co-design methodologies for inclusive human-AI interaction
• Designing and conducting user studies with children, families, and professionals
• Creating and evaluating human-robot interaction concepts (e.g., sensory adaptive, child-led, reciprocal AI)
• Developing LLM-driven dialogue systems integrated into robotic and/or digital platforms
• Prototyping and testing multimodal interfaces for inclusive co-creation
• Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and practitioners
• Publishing research outcomes in top-tier venues such as CHI, CSCW, TOCHI, HRI, and IJHCS
• Supervision by experienced researchers from the Industrial Design department and participation in the university s training programs and international network

• A master’s degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Industrial Design, AI, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field
• Strong programming skills (e.g., Python), including experience with large language models
• Interest in inclusive design, accessibility, or child-AI interaction
• Affinity for working with children with special needs (ASD, ARFID)
• Ability to work independently and as part of interdisciplinary teams
• Excellent communication skills in English (spoken and written)
• Additional qualifications that are appreciated include experience with robotics platforms (e.g., NAO, QT, ROS), a background in psychology, education, or interaction design, and familiarity with multimodal interaction (gesture, gaze, speech)

The position is full-time for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your time on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year. The salary is in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (minimum €3,059, maximum €3,881), and includes additional benefits such as a pension scheme, paid parental leave, a year-end bonus, and vacation pay.

To apply, candidates should submit a complete application using the official university application portal. The application should include:

• A cover letter describing your motivation and qualifications for the position
• A curriculum vitae, including education…