Materiality in Augmented Reality (Advert Ref: RDF18/DES/HOLMQUIST)

This project examines the intersection of the physical and the real world, as made possible by augmented reality (AR) technology. AR involves the integration of computer-generated images with the physical world, which be viewed through e.g. a head-mounted display or a mobile phone. There are already many proposed uses for AR, from surgery support to mechanical repair tasks. However, much of the effort in research so far has been technical, concentrating on developing accurate tracking algorithms and efficient rendering. Here, we take a designer’s view of augmented reality. In particular, we will examine the properties of physical objects – weight, texture, firmness, size and so on – as they relate to the virtual objects that are rendered in their place. For instance, imagine a toy application where the user picks up an object like a plush doll. If it is then rendered in AR, it might look like a carton bird, a realistic cat, or anything else the developer imagines. But the furriness, softness, and overall feel of the physical object will clearly have a strong influence on the experience of the virtual counterpart. This creates a tension between the real world, which has a set of fixed features, and the virtual, which can be made to look and behave in literally any manner. We will be designing and evaluating a range of interactive AR applications and techniques, resulting in new knowledge of how real-world materiality relates to its virtual counterparts.

We are seeking an applicant with:
• A degree in design-related area, e.g. product design, graphic design, interaction design, 3D design or fashion.
• Experience in 3D modelling and 3D printing is essential
• Experience with mobile augmented reality application frameworks (e.g. ARKit, ARCore) is desirable but not essential.

Eligibility and How to Apply:
Please note eligibility requirement:
• Academic excellence of the proposed student i.e. 2:1 (or equivalent GPA from non-UK universities [preference for 1st class honours]); or a Masters (preference for Merit or above); or APEL evidence of substantial practitioner achievement.
• Appropriate IELTS score, if required.
• Applicants cannot apply for this funding if currently engaged in Doctoral study at Northumbria or elsewhere.

For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, see:
https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/research/postgraduate-research-degrees/how-to-apply/

Please note: Applications that do not include a research proposal of approximately 1,000 words (not a copy of the advert), or that do not include the advert reference (e.g. RDF18/…) will not be considered.

Deadline for applications: 28 January 2018

Start Date: 1 October 2018

Northumbria University takes pride in, and values, the quality and diversity of our staff. We welcome applications from all members of the community. The University holds an Athena SWAN Bronze award in recognition of our commitment to improving employment practices for the advancement of gender equality and is a member of the Euraxess network, which delivers information and support to professional researchers