PhD Researcher, HCI & Visualization Research

Autodesk, Inc.; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 34,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Autodesk, Inc. is seeking a graduate intern to explore human-computer interaction and data visualization within the Future AI Experiences and HCI & Visualization groups in Canada or the USA.

You will develop software prototypes, perform literature reviews, and run experiments under mentor guidance. The role emphasizes collaboration, research rigor, and dissemination of findings, with a 16-week paid program from May 24 to Sept 10, 2027.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science or related field with HCI specialization
• Demonstrated expertise in interactive technologies with peer-reviewed publications
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Experience building software prototypes and conducting usability studies

Responsibilities

• Support research and design by developing software prototypes
• Conduct literature reviews and gather requirements
• Develop algorithms and prototypes to test concepts
• Conduct experiments and usability studies to evaluate ideas
• Publish research findings and present results externally and internally

Skills

Interactive technologies

Communication

Teamwork

Prototype development

Literature reviews

Education

PhD in Computer Science or related field (HCI)

Tools

React/Next.js

Node.js/Flask

Unity

Unreal Engine

3D graphics programming

Job description

Job Requisition ID #26WD101057Position OverviewGraduate internships will explore new areas of technology and help Autodesk (as well as the academic community) understand how emerging technologies can be leveraged to improve creation and design processes. Within the Future AI Experiences and HCI & Visualization research groups, you and your mentor(s) will arrive at a mutually agreed upon research project in the area of human-computer interaction or data visualization. Over the course of the internship, you will drive that project forward with guidance from your mentor(s), including implementation, experimental validation, data analysis, etc. Specific areas of interest for research projects include: Human-AI Collaboration, Agentic Co-Creation, User Interfaces for Generative AI or Machine Learning Systems, Information Visualization, Software Learning, Future of Work, Generative Design Tools, Interactive Fabrication, Augmented Reality, and Virtual Reality.Based in Canada or USA.ResponsibilitiesSupport the research and design efforts by developing software prototypes and explore conceptsConduct literature reviewsGather requirements and issues to explore and designDevelop algorithmsBuild prototypes to test and explore conceptsConduct experiments to test research ideas and hypothesesMeasure human performance and cognition limitations related to interaction with technologyConduct usability studies, ethnographic studies, heuristic evaluations, task analyses, structured interviews and surveysEvaluate research findings and prototypes to make recommendations for impacting business and products.Explore new prototyping frameworks and technologiesAuthor a full research paperProduce an accompanying research videoPresent the results of your research externally and internallyMinimum QualificationsCurrently enrolled in a PhD program in Computer Science or related field, with a specialization in Human-Computer Interaction, and at least one academic term to complete post internshipDemonstrated expertise in the area of interactive technologies, with peer-reviewed publications on the topic in international venuesStrong communication skills and teamwork experienceVery strong technical skills in building software prototypesPreferred QualificationsExperience with modern generative AI tools and frameworks (e.g., GPT, Llama, Stable Diffusion, ComfyUI)Experience with web development and frameworks (e.g., React/Next.js, Node.js/Flask, etc.).Experience interfacing with unique hardware modulesExperience developing software in a Windows or MacOS environmentExperience developing software for AR or VR equipment (e.g., Meta Quest, Apple Vision Pro)Experience with programming 3D graphics, Unity, Unreal EngineExperimental design and data analysisRapid prototypingAbility to work effectively as a member of a team; ability to work with minimum supervision, self-drivenAbility to deal with requirements from multiple sources and find solutions and deal with conflicts and compromises in a diplomatic mannerAbility to communicate effectively and work cooperatively with other teamsAbility to write clear, concise, correct technical materialAbout the Canada Intern ProgramThe 2027 Research Internship Program is a 16-week paid program running from May 24th to Sept 10 2027. You’ll contribute to meaningful projects, learn from industry leaders, and take part in tech talks and development opportunities. Internships align with Autodesk’s Flexible Workplace approach, supporting office, remote, and hybrid work based on business and team needs.Learn MoreAbout AutodeskWelcome to Autodesk! Amazing things are created every day with our software – from the greenest buildings and cleanest cars to the smartest factories and biggest hit movies. We help innovators turn their ideas into reality, transforming not only how things are made, but what can be made.We take great pride in our culture here at Autodesk – it’s at the core of everything we do. Our culture guides the way we work and treat each other, informs how we connect with customers and partners, and defines how we show up in the world.When you’re an Autodesker, you can do meaningful work that helps build a better world designed and made for all. Ready to shape the world and your future? Join us!Salary transparencySalary is one part of Autodesk’s competitive compensation package. Offers are based on the candidate’s experience, educational level, and geographic location.BelongingWe take pride in cultivating a culture of belonging where everyone can thrive. Learn more here: https://www.autodesk.com/company/global-belongingIn-Person Onboarding and Identity VerificationThis role may require in-person onboarding and/or in-person ID verification.