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Dong Whi Yoo

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PhD in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) – Socio-Technical Research in Mental Health & AI at Indiana University Indianapolis Indiana University Indianapolis in United States

I am recruiting a PhD student in Human-Computer Interaction focused on digital mental health and AI at Indiana University Indianapolis for Fall 2026.

University of Indianapolis

United States

Jan 15, 2026

Keywords

Computer Science
Psychology
Information Technology
Artificial Intelligence
Human-computer Interaction
Substance Abuse
Technology Ethics
Wellness
Community-based Research

Description

The Socio-Technical Exploration of Wellbeing (STEW) Lab at Indiana University Indianapolis is recruiting a motivated PhD student for the Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) PhD program, starting Fall 2026. The lab, led by Assistant Professor Dong Whi Yoo, focuses on how people interact with AI and digital mental health technologies, emphasizing ethical, community-centered, and stakeholder-engaged research. Key research areas include human-centered computing, digital mental health, AI safety, and the design of technologies that support mental health and wellbeing. STEW Lab projects include evaluating the safety of large language models (LLMs) in substance use disorder recovery, developing guidelines for student use of AI chatbots for mental health, and collaborating with community partners to design digital mental health solutions. The lab works closely with people with lived experience, clinicians, and advocacy groups to ensure research is grounded in real-world needs and ethical considerations. Indiana University Indianapolis is an R1 research university and home to the largest medical school in the US, offering a vibrant, collaborative environment with strong ties to the School of Medicine. The HCI PhD program provides a supportive research community and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Applicants should have experience in HCI or digital mental health research and a strong interest in mental health and wellbeing. Those with backgrounds in human-centered computing, community-engaged work, or AI system design are especially encouraged to apply. Funding details are not specified, so candidates should confirm with the supervisor or program. The application deadline is January 15, 2026. For more information, visit the HCI PhD program and STEW Lab websites, and contact Dong Whi Yoo with a description of your experience and interests.

Funding

No explicit funding details are provided in the post. However, the program is at an R1 university and typically such PhD positions are funded, but applicants should confirm funding details directly with the supervisor or program.

How to apply

Visit the HCI PhD program and STEW Lab websites for more information. Email Dong Whi Yoo with a brief description of your relevant experience and research interests. Apply to the HCI PhD program at Indiana University Indianapolis by January 15, 2026.

Requirements

Applicants should have experience with HCI or digital mental health research and a strong interest in mental health and wellbeing. A relevant background in human-centered computing, community-engaged work, or designing AI systems is preferred. Specific degree, GPA, or language test requirements are not mentioned; applicants are encouraged to contact the supervisor with a description of their experience and research interests.

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