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Phd Human Computer Interaction Research Jobs in Washington, DC

Mindlance

UX Designer

Washington, DC · On-site

Visual design, research skills are optional/nice to have. Must Have Skills: * Hands-on interaction ... Bachelor's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), UX Design, Graphic Design, Computer Science ...

MANTECH

Front End Developer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$106K - $123K/yr

Conduct user research with operators to understand workflow pain points and interface requirements ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, Design, or related field (or ...

MANTECH

Front End Developer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$106K - $123K/yr

Conduct user research with operators to understand workflow pain points and interface requirements ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, Design, or related field (or ...

Samprasoft

User Experience Designer

Reston, VA · On-site

User Experience Designer The User Experience Designer is proficient at user research, interaction ... Bachelor or Masters degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Human Factors in Information Design ...

Prysm Technology

UX/UI Designer

Herndon, VA · On-site

... Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent ... UX research, analysis, and synthesis (not UI-only). - Strong proficiency with design and ...

Prysm Technology

UX/UI Designer

Herndon, VA · On-site

User Research & Analysis Plan and conduct user research activities including interviews, usability ... Bachelor's degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Computer Science, or a related ...

Samprasoft

User Experience Designer

Reston, VA · On-site

User Experience Designer The User Experience Designer is proficient at user research, interaction ... Bachelor or Masters degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Human Factors in Information Design ...

Prysm Technology

UX/UI Designer

Herndon, VA · On-site

... Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent ... X research, analysis, and synthesis (not UI-only).  Strong proficiency with design and ...

CEDENT

Senior UI/UX Designer

Reston, VA · On-site

The User Experience Designer is proficient at user research, interaction design and visual design ... in Human-Computer Interaction, Human Factors in Information Design, Human Centered Design ...

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Phd Human Computer Interaction Research information

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How much do phd human computer interaction research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd human computer interaction research in Washington, DC is $26.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.78 and $32.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are popular job titles related to Phd Human Computer Interaction Research jobs in Washington, DC?

For Phd Human Computer Interaction Research jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Human Computer Interaction Research jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Human Computer Interaction Research jobs in Washington, DC are:

Phd Human Computer Interaction Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Human Computer Interaction Research job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,098 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Research Scientist / Computer Systems Researcher - Mid to Expert Level (MD)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 539 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

Are you looking to apply your computer science and other technical expertise to develop technologies and tools and be a part of cutting edge innovations? Come join our team of experts! NSA is in search of Research Scientists and Senior Research Scientists to solve complex problems, test innovative approaches and research new solutions to make the U.S. and its allies safer and more secure. Help protect national security interests.

Qualifications:The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.
FULL PERFORMANCE
Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 3 years of relevant experience or a Master's degree plus 1 year of relevant experience or a Doctoral degree and no experience. An Associate's degree plus 5 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth experience that is clearly related to the position.
SENIOR
Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 6 years of relevant experience or a Master's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience or a Doctoral degree plus 2 years of relevant experience. An Associate's degree plus 8 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth experience that is clearly related to the position.
EXPERT
Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 9 years of relevant experience or a Master's degree plus 7 years of relevant experience or a Doctoral degree plus 5 years of relevant experience. An Associate's degree plus 11 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth experience that is clearly related to the position.
Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following: computer systems research, simulation/model development and prototyping, software design, programming, computational science, algorithm analysis and design, reverse engineering, designing/developing computer or information systems, including engineering hardware or software, machine learning, artificial intelligence, visualization, human-computer interaction, data science, or high performance computing.Education:Degree must be in Computer Science (CS) or Computer Engineering (CE). Other STEM fields (e.g., Engineering, Mathematics, or Information Systems (IS)) may be considered relevant if the programs contain, at minimum, a concentration of courses in the following foundational CS areas: algorithms; computer architecture (not network architecture); programming methodologies and languages; data structures; logic and computation; and advanced mathematics (for example, calculus, discrete mathematics).
**Please upload a copy of your transcripts from all schools attended, prior to applying for this position. Unofficial transcripts are fine at this stage. The minimum qualifications for this position require a degree that demonstrates a concentration of Computer Science (CS) courses in foundational CS areas.**Employment Type: OTHER

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