The University of Bath is inviting applications for the following PhD project starting in October 2021 and supervised by Prof Jason Alexander in the Department of Computer Science.
This is an exciting opportunity to conduct blue-skies research into the next generation of tangible, haptic display technology. You will design, prototype, and evaluate novel display surfaces that support deformable force input. You will use off-the-shelf sensing and actuation components to develop prototype displays that support force detection, design interaction techniques that capitalise on this new modality, and evaluate the outcomes.
You will join a team of researchers on Prof Alexander’s ERC Starting grant, FORCE-UI, a project that seeks to radically increase the expressivity of touchscreen-based interaction (see www.jasonalexander.kiwi for more information). You will publish your work at the leading venues for dissemination in Human-Computer Interaction including ACM CHI, ACM UIST, ACM ToCHI, World Haptics, and ACM SIGGRAPH.
You will be hosted in the growing Human-Computer Interaction group in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Bath.
Candidate requirements:
We seek applications from enthusiastic individuals who are strongly motivated to help push the boundaries of knowledge and technology in this research area.
The successful applicant will have an excellent academic track record with a background in Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or similar area. Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or high Upper Second Class UK Honours degree (or the equivalent) in the relevant subject area. A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous.
The applicant will need to demonstrate experience, or a strong desire to develop expertise, in physical prototyping using off-the-shelf components (e.g. 3D printing, basic electronics) and have some programming skills. Experience of working closely with end-users to evaluate prototypes is also advantageous. Good written and oral communication skills are essential.
You will be working in a multi-disciplinary environment that will allow you to build the complete skillset necessary for undertaking this research.
Non-UK applicants will also be required to have met the English language entry requirements of the University of Bath.
Enquiries and applications:
Applicants are encouraged to contact Prof Jason Alexander on email address [Email Address Removed] before applying to discuss the suitability of their experience and/or qualifications, and to obtain additional information about the position.
Formal applications should be made via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Computer Science.
More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found on our website.
Note: Applications may close earlier than the advertised deadline if a suitable candidate is found and therefore early application is recommended.
Fees & Finance:
The successful student will receive a stipend at the applicable Wellcome Trust rate for a period of up to 3 years (subject to satisfactory progress). Wellcome Trust stipend rates are currently as follows:
- Year 1: £19,919
- Year 2: £21,542
- Year 3: £23,298
There will also be funds available to support research expenses, training and conference attendance.
Funding does not cover tuition fees which the student will be responsible for paying from his/her stipend and/or other private funds. Tuition fee rates may be subject to increase on an annual basis but the current rates for the 2021/22 academic year are as follows:
- For Home students: £4,500
- For Overseas students: £23,800
We follow the UK government’s fee regulations and guidance from the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) in determining fee status. Further information may also be found on our fee status guidance webpage.
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