The aim of this research project is to investigate the design of Mixed Reality Experiences, with the long-term objective of investigating how they can be designed, developed and deployed in engaging, impactful, and ultimately more meaningful ways, in any given application context.
The creation of a Mixed Reality (MR) experience is by its nature a transdisciplinary challenge, and the application context influences the design significantly. The research can encompass aspects of Design, Technology, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), User Experience Design (UxD), Service Design, and application-specific issues, among many others.
For effective implementation, designers need to apply a holistic approach, taking into consideration the stakeholders, the capabilities and limitations of the chosen technology, the human-centred design, the socio-cultural challenges, and more. Therefore, we welcome diverse perspectives and approaches to the research. Candidates with experience and knowledge of multiple and varied disciplines, and interdisciplinary ways of working, are strongly encouraged.
The intent is for the project to be application focused. Therefore, a suitable application area should be chosen, which can draw from a broad range including Digital Cultural Heritage, Creative Industries, Performance, Games & Playful Interactions, Accessibility, Wellbeing, Health, Sustainability, or a combination thereof. The application area can also include others that are of interest to the candidate, especially if they have prior work or resources in that area.
A candidate may choose to focus on the broader conceptual challenge of meaningful experience design, an ongoing transdisciplinary challenge which underpins the entire project.
Or, depending on the background and preference of the candidate, the research approach may narrow the scope to a particular challenge of MR experience design & development, beyond the wider exploration of meaningful design.
Some examples of scoping could include:
• A tighter focus on Computer Vision and MR interaction design, by looking into interaction challenges such as the use of 3D Object Recognition and Tracking to facilitate tangible interactions in Mixed Reality Experiences. This could enable more natural interactions with physical objects that can act as immersive interfaces for MR experiences.
This example would suit a candidate interested in Computer Vision and machine learning.
• Or a focus on exploring the barriers to inclusive MR experiences. This could be along the lines of accessibility, inclusivity, or socio-economic and cultural perspectives. This example could suit a candidate from a variety of backgrounds, including design, psychology or sociology.
• Or An initiative to drive a novel combination of MR and an existing experience, intended for health and wellbeing, cultural heritage or performance and art.
This example could suit a candidate with a health, creative industries or cultural heritage background and a keen interest in in utilising creative and immersive technology.
Over the course of the project, the candidate will evaluate and determine which approach and/or technology is most suitable for their focus, and ideally develop a process that can be adopted by end-users in the chosen application area. The process should be co-designed and evaluated by practitioners of the chosen application area to drive real-world impact.
Academic qualifications
A first-class honours degree, or a distinction at master level, or equivalent achievements ideally in Computer Science, Applied Informatics, a similar field, or relevant to their chosen application context.
English language requirement
If your first language is not English, comply with the University requirements for research degree programmes in terms of English language.
Application process
Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the supervisor, Dr Dimitrios Darzentas ([Email Address Removed]) to discuss the content of the project and the fit with their qualifications and skills before preparing an application.
Contact details
Should you need more information, please email [Email Address Removed].
The application must include:
Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about
- Background and motivation, explaining the importance of the project, should be supported also by relevant literature. You can also discuss the applications you expect for the project results.
- Research questions or
- Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
- List of references
The outline must be created solely by the applicant. Supervisors can only offer general discussions about the project idea without providing any additional support.
- Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
- Recent and complete curriculum vitae. The curriculum must include a declaration regarding the English language qualifications of the candidate.
- Supporting documents will have to be submitted by successful candidates.
- Two academic references (but if you have been out of education for more than three years, you may submit one academic and one professional reference), on the form can be downloaded here.
Applications can be submitted here. To be considered, the application must use:
- “SCEBE1123” as project code.
- the advertised title as project title
All applications must be received by 3rd December 2023. Applicants who have not been contacted by the 8th March 2024 should assume that they have been unsuccessful. Projects are anticipated to start on 1st October 2024.
Download a copy of the project details here.
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