PhD Candidate in Human-Centred Design for AI Companionship and Care in Ageing Societies Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

PhD opportunity at NTNU in human-centred AI, design, and ageing societies. The Department of Design at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position within the Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence (HCAI) Lab at NTNU Gjøvik. The project sits at the intersection of human-centred design, human-computer interaction, and AI, with a focus on how AI companionship technologies may reshape care, companionship, emotional support, wellbeing, and autonomy for older adults.

About the research. The PhD candidate will investigate why and how AI companionship can address challenges linked to demographic ageing, loneliness, and social isolation. The work will involve mixed-method research and the development of conceptual and functional prototypes using action-oriented, empathy-driven, and inclusive design methods. There will be opportunities to test and evaluate prototypes both in-house and with external stakeholders, contribute to dissemination, participate in research networks, and engage in conferences and possible research stays abroad.

Research environment. The position is embedded in the Department of Design at NTNU, which works across Trondheim and Gjøvik and has strong expertise in interaction design and health and welfare technology. The HCAI Lab offers a strong international environment for research on human-centred AI and socially meaningful design. The role is supervised by academic staff at NTNU, and the post involves both doctoral education and career-promoting work.

Funding and conditions. This is a fully funded PhD position. The salary is normally NOK 580,000 per year, depending on qualifications and seniority. The appointment period is 4 years for the doctoral work plus 12 months of career-promoting work. The candidate is expected to be physically present and available at the institution on a daily basis and to participate in the organized doctoral programme throughout the employment period.

Eligibility highlights. Applicants should have a master's degree in design or a related field, a strong interest in human-centred AI and its societal implications, experience with prototyping, and experience with qualitative and/or mixed methods. A B average or better is normally required. Applicants must also meet the doctoral programme admission requirements and demonstrate Norwegian or other Scandinavian language skills at B2 level, alongside excellent English communication skills. Master students may apply if the degree will be completed and documented before starting and no later than 15 July 2027.

Application window. The deadline is 26 October 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Oslo). Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no and include the documents listed in the advertisement, including a cover letter, CV, transcripts, diploma(s), thesis, research vision statement, and referee details.

Keywords: human-centred design, AI companionship, human-centred AI, HCI, ageing societies, older adults, mixed methods, prototyping, inclusive design, wellbeing, care technologies.