This PhD position at KTH Royal Institute of Technology invites applications from candidates interested in the socio-technical integration of conversational robots within elderly care. The project is situated within the third-cycle subject of Technology and Health and aims to develop a Nordic Model for the integration of social and conversational robots as welfare technologies. The research will address the practical, ethical, and legal challenges posed by advanced AI-driven welfare technologies, focusing on their impact on care systems. As a doctoral student, you will conduct user studies to investigate the integration of conversational robots in elderly care settings, exploring both the benefits and tensions that arise across technical, ethical, and regulatory dimensions. The project will also assess how these technologies affect care workflows and contribute to the development of sustainable models for robot integration in long-term care. The position offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic, international research environment, collaborating with industry partners and leading universities. Supervision will be provided by Assistant Professor Sanna Kuoppamäki and Sebastiaan Meijer. The role is fully funded with a monthly salary according to KTH’s doctoral student salary agreement, and employment is full-time for up to four years. Applicants must have a relevant second-cycle degree or equivalent, experience with user studies involving robots or AI, and proficiency in English. The application process requires submission of academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, a CV, a motivation letter, and relevant publications. The deadline for applications is December 3, 2025. KTH is committed to equality, diversity, and providing a supportive environment for all researchers.

This PhD position at KTH Royal Institute of Technology offers an exciting opportunity to conduct sociotechnical research on the integration of conversational robots as welfare technologies in elderly care. The project aims to develop a Nordic model for the sustainable adoption of social and conversational robots in long-term care settings, addressing practical, ethical, and regulatory challenges. As a doctoral student, you will design and conduct user studies to evaluate the impact of AI-driven technologies on workflows and care outcomes, and explore the benefits and barriers to their implementation from multiple perspectives. Supervision will be provided by Assistant Professor Sanna Kuoppamäki and Professor Sebastiaan Meijer, ensuring strong academic guidance in a dynamic, international research environment. The position is fully funded, with a monthly salary and employment benefits according to KTH's doctoral student agreement. Collaboration with industry and leading universities worldwide is encouraged, and you will have opportunities to publish in scientific journals and present at conferences. Eligibility requires a master's degree or equivalent, or at least 240 ECTS credits (with 60 at the advanced level). Experience with user studies involving robots or AI-driven technology, and proficiency in social science research methods, are advantageous. Strong communication skills and English proficiency (English B/6) are mandatory. Selection will focus on independence, collaboration, professionalism, and analytical ability, with personal qualities highly valued. The position is based in Stockholm, Sweden, and is offered as a full-time, fixed-term employment for up to four years. Application materials should include degree certificates, transcripts, proof of language proficiency, CV, cover letter outlining your motivation and academic interests, and relevant publications. Applications must be submitted via the KTH recruitment system by December 3, 2025. KTH is committed to equality, diversity, and good working conditions, providing a creative and supportive environment for research and professional growth. Join KTH to contribute to the future of education, research, and innovation in a leading technical university.