Doctoral Researcher in Human-Technology Interaction and Human-Centered AI (CAI-BLUE Project) Tampere University in Finland

Tampere University invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher (PhD student) position in Human-Technology Interaction and Human-Centered AI, as part of the NordForsk-funded CAI-BLUE project. The research focuses on interaction design, prototyping, and user studies of collaborative AI agents in blue-collar workplaces, aiming to advance sustainable societies through innovative technology. The position is full-time and fixed-term until February 2029, located at the Hervanta Campus in Tampere, Finland.

The CAI-BLUE project is led by Professor Kaisa Väänänen (Human-Centered Technology group) and Professor Thomas Olsson (Technology x Social Interaction group), both part of the Tauchi Research Centre within the Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences. The research groups specialize in design research for new technologies and digital applications, with a strong interdisciplinary and international focus. Collaboration extends to academic partners in Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, as well as industrial companies.

The successful candidate will conduct research on worker needs for AI agents in team collaboration contexts, including fieldwork to investigate attitudes and barriers to AI adoption. Responsibilities include iterative design, prototyping, and testing of AI agents in real industrial settings, as well as formulating design guidelines for inclusive and effective human–AI collaboration. The project offers flexibility to shape research directions based on the candidate’s interests and emphasizes high-level scientific publication. Additional duties may include teaching (5-10%) and small faculty tasks.

Applicants must hold a completed master’s degree in human-computer interaction, human-centered AI, information technology, computer science, or a related field before starting. Required skills include systematic scientific research, critical thinking, problem solving, and experience with human-centered design methods such as interviewing, observation, field studies, participatory workshops, concept design, and UI prototyping. Excellent English communication skills and the ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams are essential. Candidates must be able to write research papers for peer-reviewed journals or conferences in HCI. If the previous degree is not from Finland, an official English language certificate is required for admission to the doctoral programme.

The position offers a starting salary of approximately 2700 EUR/month, with increases based on experience and progress. The salary is determined by the Finnish University Salary System (level 2-4). Benefits include occupational health care, flexible work schedule, access to modern research infrastructure and teaching facilities, and a personal fund for sports and cultural activities. Tampere University provides a vibrant, international research community, and the Tauchi Research Centre is one of Europe’s largest HCI research hubs.

Applications must be submitted via the Tampere University online recruitment system by January 26, 2026. Required documents include a CV (max 2 pages), application letter (max 2 pages), degree certificates and transcripts, and other supporting materials. All documents should be in English and attached in PDF format. For further information, contact Professor Kaisa Väänänen at [email protected].

Join Tampere University to contribute to cutting-edge research in human-centered interactive technologies and be part of a dynamic academic and cultural environment in Finland.