Postdoc positions in HCI and Videogames Theory at IT University of Copenhagen

Postdoc positions in HCI and Videogames Theory at IT University of Copenhagen

The IT University of Copenhagen invites highly motivated individuals to apply for a Postdoc position in HCI and Videogames Theory at IT University of Copenhagen.

Job description
Interdisciplinary fields such as Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Game Design have imported theory from a variety of disciplines, such as psychology and design, but also developed novel theoretical tools. However, at present many challenges remain with regards to the impact, uptake and utility of theory for research and design practice.

As part of the ERC StG project THEORYCRAFT, we seek three postdocs to join us in addressing the question "what is good theory for HCI and/or games?". Candidates will investigate current theory use in HCI/games research and practice, develop approaches to make theory more usable, and evaluate the effectiveness of such interventions. A particular focus of this investigation is the role of theory in HCI and game design education programmes.

In the context of these positions, we seek candidates who are deeply interested in advancing theory in HCI and/or games. Ideal candidates should have a comprehensive publication track record in at least one of the following areas:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Game Production
• Game Design
• Design Theory

The duration of each postdoc position is 1- to 2-years. The postdocs will receive mentorship and support in clarifying their career goals and improving their profile in the relevant areas. Besides adding to their portfolio of top-tier publications, the postdocs will contribute to teaching in ITU's educational programmes (specifically, Msc in Games and/or BSc in Digital Design & Interactive Technology). Teaching responsibilities cover course contents such as games user research, player psychology, and/or HCI theory.

The research environment
The candidates will collaborate with Associate Professor Elisa Mekler, an expert in HCI games research and PI of the EU-funded ERC StG project THEORYCRAFT. The candidates will be part of the Play, Culture, and AI Section at ITU, but also have frequent opportunities to engage with the Human-Computer Interaction and Design Section. Moreover, the candidates will be affiliated with the ITU Center for Digital Play (CDP), a world-renowned hub for interdisciplinary games scholarship.

General information
The IT University of Copenhagen (ITU) is a teaching and research-based tertiary institution concerned with information technology (IT) and the opportunities it offers. The IT University has more than 160 full-time Faculty members. Research and teaching in information technology span all academic activities which involve computers including computer science, information and media sciences, humanities and social sciences, business impact and the commercialization of IT.

Qualification Requirements
The following qualifications are required:

The applicant must hold a PhD-degree with research experience in HCI, game design, game production, and/or design theory. Ideal candidates have a comprehensive publication track record in relevant fields, for example, publications in CHI, CHI PLAY, FDG, and/or Games & Culture. Teaching experience in HCI and/or games-related subjects is desired.

Employment as postdoc is a temporary position for up to 4 years at the same University.

Application
The application and all other documents ought to be in English and must include:

• A full CV including name, phone number, e-mail, previous and present employment and academic background, a complete list of publications, information for professional references (names, position, relation to the candidate, contact information)
• A motivated application (cover letter) discussing the match between this position and your qualifications, your research and career agenda, your teaching experience, the direction you would like to take in this project, and your preferred starting date.
• Documentation of academic degrees (copy of degree certificates etc.)
• A brief statement listing up to 3 publications or projects, your contributions to them, and the relevance of the corresponding skills or expertise to this project (up to 1 page).
• Documentation of pedagogical experience and teaching record within one or more of the teaching areas listed for the position

Applications without the above-mentioned required documents will not be assessed.

Further information
Questions about the positions can be directed to Associate Professor, Elisa Mekler, IT University of Copenhagen, elme@itu.dk.
Questions related to the application procedure may be directed to HR, hr@itu.dk.

Application procedure
You can only apply for this position through our e-recruitment system. Apply by pressing the button "Apply for position" in the job announcement on our website .

Please note that all application material will be destroyed after the assessment.

Applications/enclosures received at ITU after the application deadline will not be taken into consideration. If you submit an application, it is your responsibility to ensure that it arrives before the deadline so please allow sufficient time for upload of publications and other documents.

At The IT University of Copenhagen we have an international environment and view diversity as a valuable resource. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive working environment for all our employees and encourage all qualified applicants, regardless of age, gender, religious affiliation, or ethnic background to apply for the position.