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Phd Human Computer Interaction Research Jobs in Rhode Island

Project Engineer, Sr. Level

Providence, RI · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

... human-computer interaction (HCI) or data analytics/data science with good eye for design and ability to create valid experiments identifying assumptions, limitations and theoretically grounded ...

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... child interaction and learning. The Research Assistant will participate in all facets of the ... human subject compliance, program and manage on-line experiments through Qualtrics, and other ...

... with human subject based research to include professional correspondence and interaction with research subjects, knowledge of research ethics, regulatory management and good clinical practice ...

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Phd Human Computer Interaction Research information

What is a PhD in human-computer interaction (HCI)?

A PhD in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is an advanced research degree focused on understanding and improving the ways people interact with computers and technology. Students in this program study interdisciplinary topics such as computer science, psychology, design, and social sciences to develop new interfaces, systems, and user experiences. Graduates are trained to conduct original research, often working on emerging technologies like virtual reality, wearable devices, or accessible computing. The goal is to make technology more usable, effective, and enjoyable for diverse users.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD human-computer interaction (HCI) researcher?

To thrive as a PhD HCI Researcher, you need advanced knowledge in computer science, psychology, and design, typically evidenced by a doctoral degree and research experience in user-centered design or related fields. Familiarity with tools such as statistical analysis software, prototyping platforms (like Figma or Axure), and programming languages (such as Python or JavaScript) is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills help you design innovative studies and collaborate across disciplines. These capabilities are vital for developing impactful HCI solutions and advancing knowledge in technology-user interactions.

What are some common collaborations for a PhD human-computer interaction (HCI) researcher in academic or industry settings?

PhD researchers in Human-Computer Interaction frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including computer scientists, designers, psychologists, and domain experts. These collaborations are essential for developing user-centered technologies, running user studies, and publishing impactful research. In both academia and industry, HCI researchers often work with software engineers to prototype interfaces, as well as with end users and stakeholders to gather feedback and iterate on designs. Regular meetings, joint research projects, and co-authored publications are typical aspects of these collaborative efforts.

What is the difference between Phd Human Computer Interaction Research vs Human Factors Specialist?

AspectPhd Human Computer Interaction ResearchHuman Factors Specialist
Required CredentialsPhD in Human-Computer Interaction or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Human Factors, Psychology, or Engineering
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research labs, industry R&D teamsIndustrial settings, usability labs, consulting firms
Industry UsageAcademic research, product design, user experience innovationUsability testing, safety analysis, ergonomic design

While both roles focus on optimizing human interaction with technology, Phd Human Computer Interaction Research primarily involves academic and research-oriented work, developing new theories and prototypes. Human Factors Specialists tend to apply these principles in practical settings, ensuring products are safe, usable, and ergonomic in industry environments.

What can you do with a PhD in human-computer interaction?

A PhD in human-computer interaction prepares individuals for research, design, and development roles focused on improving user experience, usability, and interface design. Graduates often work in academia, industry research labs, or technology companies, utilizing skills in user-centered design, prototyping, and data analysis to create innovative digital solutions.

What job categories do people searching Phd Human Computer Interaction Research jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Human Computer Interaction Research jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Phd Human Computer Interaction Research jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Phd Human Computer Interaction Research job openings:

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Civic Science and AI-Human Interaction

Brown University

Providence, RI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


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Job description

Description
The Data Science Institute at Brown University invites applications for an 18-month Postdoctoral Research Associate position in civic science and AI-human interaction beginning in Fall 2026. The successful candidate will be hosted by ARIA (the NSF AI Research Institute on Interaction with AI Assistants), a $20M federally-funded institute dedicated to the joint scientific study of AI and human cognition, with a focus on mental and behavioral health. The Fellow will bridge foundational research in computational brain science with public engagement and community impact, and will straddle the Carney Institute for Brain Science's Center for Computational Brain Science and the Data Science Institutes' Center for Technological Responsibility, Reimagination, and Redesign. Collaborations with the School of Public Health and/or Rhode Island Hospital will also be encouraged. The position is part of the Rita Allen Foundation's Civic Science Fellows program, and the Fellow will participate in that program's broader cohort of civic scientists in addition to conducting independent research.
For this position, Brown offers only the J-1 visa classification to scholars who need immigration sponsorship in order to enter the U.S. and commence lawful employment under the terms of their appointment.
Qualifications
We seek applicants with a doctoral degree in a relevant field, which may include cognitive science, neuroscience, computer science, public health, science and technology studies, or a related discipline. Strong candidates will have demonstrated experience working across disciplinary boundaries and an interest in both rigorous empirical research and meaningful community engagement. The Fellow will be expected to develop and lead a self-directed research project connecting at least one of ARIA's core scientific workstreams - cognitively-inspired AI, trustworthy human-AI interaction, or AI alignment - with ARIA's participatory design workstream. Example project directions include but are not limited to: empirical study of the neurological, cognitive, or developmental effects of AI companionship; community-informed computational psychiatry (e.g., participatory research around AI tools for managing mental and behavioral health disorders); or psychologically-informed methods for AI models and interfaces.
The Fellow will be expected to work with multiple co-mentors spanning different fields and methodological traditions, to engage regularly with ARIA's research team, and to contribute to the organization of workshops, roundtables, and public engagement events. Deliverables will include peer-reviewed publications, public-facing reports or whitepapers, and presentations to both scientific and non-scientific audiences. The Fellow will join a vibrant interdisciplinary community of researchers across 11 institutions including Brown, Carnegie Mellon, Berkeley, Princeton, NYU, and the Santa Fe Institute.
Application Instructions
To receive full consideration, the following materials should be submitted by noon EDT on Aug 17, 2026 to the application portal:
  1. A cover letter stating the applicant's academic field, status of their dissertation, and proposed research to be conducted during their fellowship period. The cover letter should not exceed 2,000 words and should make clear how the candidate will thrive in and contribute to ARIA's environment. Candidates should also address how they would contribute to the research and/or teaching missions of our diverse and inclusive university community.
  2. An up-to-date curriculum vitae
  3. A copy of each graduate transcript
  4. A writing sample, preferably an article or dissertation chapter
  5. Three confidential letters of recommendation from scholars familiar with the applicant's research.

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