Postdoc position in Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence - HCC

Aalborg University; Aalborg; On-site; DKK 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Aalborg University invites applications for a two-year postdoc position in Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence in the Department of Computer Science, starting 1 January 2027, under Prof. Niels van Berkel.

The project Safeguarding Users' Cognitive Autonomy in Human-AI Interaction aims to detect cognitive load changes and design digital interventions to support independent thinking, grounded in cognitive theory. Strong collaboration is essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in human-computer interaction, computer science or a related field.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills.
• Eligibility for postdoc appointment; four-year limit.

Responsibilities

• Develop methods to detect changes in users' cognitive load and design digital interventions to support cognitive autonomy in HCI.
• Bridge project technical work with cognitive theory and empirical study.
• Publish scientific results in leading Human-Computer Interaction venues.

Skills

Collaboration skills

Communication skills

Adaptability

Education

PhD in HCI / CS / AI / cognitive psychology

Job description

Postdoc position in Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence

The Department of Computer Science at Aalborg University invites applications for a postdoc position working with Professor Niels van Berkel. The earliest starting date for this position is 1st of January 2027.

The project: Safeguarding Users' Cognitive Autonomy in Human-AI Interaction

Cognitive autonomy, our fundamental ability to think independently, is under threat from growing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) technology. While designed to assist, AI recommendations may inadvertently impede cognitive reasoning and steer decision-making. This raises novel questions about designing systems that assist users while supporting independent thinking. To safeguard users' cognitive autonomy, this project aims to identify when users' cognitive autonomy is at risk and how timely digital interventions can support independent thinking.

The position is a two-year role and funded by a DFF research project ('Safeguarding Users' Cognitive Autonomy in Human-AI Interaction').

Research objectives

This project develops methods to detect changes in users' cognitive load and designs digital interventions that support cognitive autonomy, people's ability to think independently, in human-AI interaction. You will connect the project's technical work with its grounding in cognitive theory. The position suits candidates with a PhD in Human-Computer Interaction or a related field who enjoy making empirical, methodological, and technical contributions. You will have the opportunity to shape the project's direction based on your interests.

Scientific dissemination is expected to focus on leading Human-Computer Interaction venues. For further information about the project, see: https://dff.dk/en/our-funded-projects/meet-the-researchers/research-leaders/eksterne-personer-en/research-leaders-2026/niels-van-berkel/.

Your competencies

You hold, or will soon obtain, a PhD degree in human-computer interaction, computer science, applied artificial intelligence, cognitive psychology, or a related field. You demonstrate strong collaboration skills and the ability to acquire new skills and technologies. Outstanding spoken and written communication skills are essential.

Qualifications requirements

Appointment as Postdoc presupposes scientific qualifications at PhD–level or similar scientific qualifications. If you have not yet completed or defended your PhD degree you can provide confirmation of upcoming graduation from your supervisor or PhD school. The research potential of each applicant will be emphasized in the overall assessment. Appointment as a Postdoc cannot exceed a period of four years in total at Aalborg University.

Who we are

You will be part of the Human Augmentation and Collaboration research group (https://www.cs.aau.dk/research/research-groups/human-augmentation-and-collaboration-hac), an ambitious and supportive research environment in which we design and evaluate interactive systems that extend human cognitive, affective, and collaborative capabilities in digital environments. We frequently publish in the leading venues in Human-Computer Interaction and are supported through a strong network of collaborators.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the project's principal investigator, Prof. Niels van Berkel ([e-mail]), prior to applying to discuss the scientific aspects of the position.

Aalborg University wants to reflect the surrounding society and has diversity as a core value. Therefore, everyone, regardless of personal background and orientation, is encouraged to apply for the position.

If you have any questions about the position, you are more than welcome to contact us. You will find contact persons at the bottom of the jobpost.

Salary and terms of employment

The employment is in accordance with the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities and the Ministerial Order on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities. Furthermore, your terms of employment and salary are in accordance with the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state (AC collective agreement) and protocol on certain terms of employment of academic staff at universities.

You can find information about the salary and salary structure for the position in the Salary Overview for Recruitment - Scientific positions (VIP). Please refer to the introductory section of the page and the section entitled "Postdoc".

There is a mutual probationary period of 3 months for the position.

Aalborg University - Knowledge for the world

Aalborg University is an international workplace with more than 3,700 employees. We offer real-world-oriented education and create world-class research results through collaboration between researchers, students, and public and private companies. This is how we achieve insights, new solutions to societal problems, and knowledge that changes the world. Our main campus is in Aalborg, but we also have campuses in Esbjerg and Copenhagen.