Doctoral Student

University of Strathclyde; Scotland; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in the UK is offering a PhD project focused on the impact of cognitive biases in engineering design. The research aims to develop innovative AI tools that enhance creativity and inclusivity. Candidates should possess a strong academic background in relevant fields and demonstrate critical thinking and collaboration skills.

Qualifications

• Strong interest in engineering design and cognitive biases.
• Understanding of design processes and decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Investigate human decision-making in engineering design.
• Develop AI-powered design tools responsive to human biases.

Skills

Critical Thinking

Communication

Collaboration

Independent Working

Education

First class or upper second-class UK Honours degree

Master's degree

Tools

Python

R

SPSS

Job description

This PhD project investigates how human decision-making and cognitive biases influence the earliest stages of engineering design— when ideas are first formed, and critical decisions shape the future of innovation. You will explore how professionals interpret user needs and convert them into design requirements, and how cognitive biases can distort this process.

The goal is to inform the development of next-generation, AI-powered design tools that are aware of and responsive to human biases—tools that actively support creativity, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability in conceptual design.

Qualifications

We are looking for you to have:

• a first class or upper second-class UK Honours degree, or international equivalent, in engineering, design, computer science, human factors, computer science, statistics or a related field
• a strong and genuine interest in the topic, as demonstrated by previous degrees, projects and/or work experience
• strong critical thinking, communication (written and oral), collaboration, and independent working skills
• if English isn't your first language, you'll need an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, with no individual score below 5.5

Preferably, you will also have:

• a relevant Master's degree
• solid understanding of design processes, decision-making, or human factors
• familiarity with quantitative research design and analysis
• basic knowledge of cognitive psychology, behavioural science or human-AI collaboration
• data analysis tools (such as Python, R, or SPSS)
• experience conducting empirical research in interdisciplinary projects

For further details: https://www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/postgraduateresearchphdopportunities/engineering/designmanufacturingengineeringmanagement/cognitivebiasesinconceptualdesigntheroleofaiandindividuals/#contactus