PhD Candidate in Human-Centred AI Design for Ageing and Care
Explore AI companionship technologies to enhance care, companionship, and autonomy for older adults through human-centred design.
Best for:Best for design researchers, HCI specialists, and PhD candidates passionate about human-centred AI, ageing populations, and inclusive technology development.
Overview
The Department of Design at NTNU invites applications for a fully funded PhD position within the Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence (HCAI) Lab. This role focuses on developing AI-driven companionship solutions to address challenges posed by ageing populations, such as social isolation and reduced autonomy. The successful candidate will conduct mixed-method research, combining human-centred design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), and prototype development to create inclusive, empathy-driven technologies. The project aims to reshape care experiences and improve well-being for older adults while fostering international collaboration and dissemination of findings. The position offers a dynamic research environment with mentorship and career development support.
What you'll do
- Complete doctoral education to obtain a PhD degree within the specified timeframe.
- Conduct research on how AI companionship can address challenges faced by ageing populations.
- Develop, test, and evaluate functional prototypes of AI companionship technologies in collaboration with stakeholders.
- Participate in scientific and popular science dissemination activities, including conferences and publications.
- Engage in international research activities, such as conferences and research stays abroad.
- Assist in teaching and other career-promoting tasks as required.
- Collaborate with the HCAI Lab and relevant research networks.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in design or a related field (e.g., Human-Computer Interaction, Sociology, Psychology, or Technology Studies).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English proficiency at a high academic level; Norwegian or Scandinavian language skills at B2 level.
Instruction: English
- Experience in building prototypes, especially in design or technology contexts.
- Proficiency in qualitative methods and/or mixed-method research approaches.
- Strong interest in human-centred AI and its societal implications.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
- Good oral and written presentation skills in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language (equivalent to B2 level).
- Master’s degree must be obtained and documented before starting the position by July 15, 2027.
- Average grade from master’s studies must be equivalent to a B or better on NTNU’s grading scale.
- Must meet NTNU’s requirements for admission to the Faculty’s Doctoral Programme.
- No restrictions on nationality or residency.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-26
Applicants must submit a complete application package electronically via Jobbnorge.no. The package should include a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, master’s thesis, publications (if applicable), a portfolio, a research vision statement (max 2 pages), and contact details for three referees. Additional documentation may be required if education was completed abroad.
- Cover letter describing motivation for the position
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copies of academic transcripts and diplomas
- Master’s thesis or equivalent major research project
- Publications and other scholarly work (if applicable)
- Portfolio demonstrating design, prototyping, or research work (if applicable)
- Research Vision Statement (maximum two pages, excluding references)
- Names and contact information of three relevant referees
- Documentation of the scope and quality of education if completed abroad (e.g., diploma supplement or HK-dir statement)
Contact
NTNU - Department of Design· Recruitment Contact
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