PhD position in HCI Theory for Videogames at IT University of Copenhagen
Job description
Interdisciplinary fields such as Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Game Design have imported theory from a variety of disciplines, such as psychology and design, but also developed novel theoretical tools. However, at present many challenges remain with regards to the impact, uptake and utility of theory for research and design practice. As part of the THEORYCRAFT project, the candidate will investigate current and novel applications of HCI theory to videogames.
Candidate Profile
We seek a highly motivated candidate with:
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Games or Interaction Design
- Experience with applying HCI theory to games
- A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for research
The research environment
The PhD student will collaborate with Associate Professor Elisa Mekler, PI of the EU-funded ERC StG project THEORYCRAFT. The candidate will be part of the Play, Culture, and AI Section at ITU, as well as the ITU Center for Digital Play (CDP), a world-renowned hub for interdisciplinary games scholarship.
About the Center for Digital Play
The Center for Digital Play (CDP) is an interdisciplinary research unit that develops novel theories and methods for the study of play and games in the 21st Century. From game-trained Artificial Intelligence, to social communities created around videogames, gamification, esports, or game engines as artistic tools, digital play is an intrinsic yet understudied phenomenon in digital societies. The CDPs goal is to define what it means to study play in digital societies from a multidisciplinary perspective. Its purpose is to develop novel methods and theories needed to deal with novel phenomena, and to be a reference center in the present and future of play and game studies.
General information
The IT University of Copenhagen (ITU) is a teaching and research-based tertiary institution concerned with information technology (IT) and the opportunities it offers. The IT University has more than 160 full-time Faculty members. Research and teaching in information technology span all academic activities which involve computers including computer science, information and media sciences, humanities and social sciences, business impact and the commercialization of IT.
Working at the IT University
Located in modern architecture, a 6-minute metro ride from the center of Copenhagen, the IT University offers an informal working environment, a varied everyday life, and a highly motivated, ambitious, competent, and diverse international faculty, with PhD degrees from 17 different countries. The IT University is an equal opportunity employer and prides itself in actively and successfully pursuing an improved gender balance among students and among faculty.
Working in Copenhagen
Copenhagen has a solid educational system, a rich cultural life, universal healthcare, good childcare, and well-functioning infrastructure. Copenhagen is among the world’s most livable cities according to the Economist Global Liveability Index. Living and working in Copenhagen will be a good experience for you and your family.
Salary and terms of employment
Appointment and salary will be in accordance with the Ministry of Taxation’s agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC) and job structure for academic staff at Universities.
Qualification Requirements
The following qualifications are required:
- 3 year programme: candidates should have a MSc (or equivalent)
Application
The application and all other documents ought to be in English and must include:
- A motivated application (cover letter), including a detailed description of your qualifications
- A statement of purpose, which provides evidence of independent thinking, novelty and originality, of the targeted research field matching the project description
- A full CV, including name, address, phone number, e-mail, previous and present employment and academic background
- Documentation of academic degrees (copy of degree certificates etc.)
- Relevant scientific publication or/and master thesis written by the applicant
- Documentation of English proficiency
The applicant will be accessed according to the Appointment Order from the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation of 13 March 2012.
The IT University may use shortlisting in connection to the recruitment process. In case of shortlisting, the Chair of the hiring committee selects applicants for assessment in consultation with the hiring committee after the application deadline. All applicants are notified whether their application has been passed for assessment. The shortlisting of candidates for assessment is based on the criteria in the job posting.
Further information
Questions about the positions can be directed to Associate Professor, Elisa Mekler, IT University of Copenhagen, elme@itu.dk.
Questions related to the application procedure may be directed to HR, hr@itu.dk.
Application procedure
You can only apply for this position through our e-recruitment system. Apply by pressing the button "Apply for position" in the job announcement on our website: http://en.itu.dk/About-ITU/Vacancies
Please read the guidelines for applicants carefully before filling in the application form. You can see the guidelines through this link: https://en.itu.dk/Research/PhD-Programme/PhD-Admission-Requirements
The IT University might upon request in the interview process contact 1-2 references.
Please note that all application material will be destroyed after the assessment.
Application deadline: 26 June 2025, at 23:59 CEST.
Applications/enclosures received at ITU after the application deadline will not be taken into consideration. If you submit an application, it is your responsibility to ensure that it arrives before the deadline so please allow sufficient time for upload of publications and other documents.
At The IT University of Copenhagen we have an international environment and view diversity as a valuable resource. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive working environment for all our employees and encourage all qualified applicants, regardless of age, gender, religious affiliation, or ethnic background to apply for the position.
Please note in your application that you found the job at Jobindex
