UX Designer Research Associate

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that challenges the curious and hardworking to deliver work that matters. Our extraordinary institution has distinctive areas of excellence and a culture marked by ambition and a deep, practical engagement with challenges facing society. We continue to produce versatile alumni and draw faculty and staff eager to be a part of the university’s creative, dedicated and close-knit community. We place emphasis on practical problem solving, interdisciplinary learning, a transformative spirit, and collaboration.The Human-Computer Interaction Institute (HCII) is a living laboratory where we investigate the relationship between computer technology, human activity, and society. Founded in 1993, the HCII is a place where we work to understand and create technology that harmonizes with and improves human capabilities, goals, and social environments through interdisciplinary research and education in design, computer science, and behavioral and social sciences. We research how people work, play and communicate within groups, organizations, and social structures, then we design, create, and evaluate technologies and tools to support human and social activities.We are looking for a UX Designer Research Associate to help design and test a web-based application to engage diverse people in learning about and combating the harmful biases exhibited in Generative AI. This research project aims to maximize the power of everyday users to audit generative AI systems, with a focus on text-to-image models.Core responsibilities include:• Designing a web-based application to support a diverse group of people in auditing potential harmful behaviors exhibited in text-to-image models, and conducting both informal and formal user studies to evaluate the effectiveness of the site.• Conducting and leading user studies• Design work with Figma• Wireframes, mock-ups and prototyping• Heuristic evaluationFlexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within the School of Computer Science Research Department. Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.You should demonstrate:• Knowledge and experience in UX design.• Knowledge in conducting user studies.• Knowledge in crowdsourcing and behavioral science.Qualifications:• High School Diploma/GED• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Human-Computer Interaction or Design.• Experience in paper prototyping, heuristic evaluation and conducting user studies.• Experience with Figma and PowerPoint.• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.Requirements• Successful background investigationJoining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance.Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page.At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!LocationPittsburgh, PAJob FunctionResearchersPosition TypeStaff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)Full Time/Part timePart timePay BasisHourlyMore Information:• Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.• Click here to view a listing of employee benefits• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.• Statement of Assurance