Research Associate - HCII - School of Computer Science

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 talented 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.

Join us as a Research Associate for an exciting project at the intersection of HCI and learning science. By imbuing a programmable robot with social characteristics, and thus positioning the robot as part of the “team”, we aim to design a curriculum that couples technical skill and social interaction.

Dr. Amy Ogan will be your mentor. Fellows will also regularly interact with other project faculty including Dr. Erin Walker and Dr. Angela Stewart at the University of Pittsburgh.

Core Responsibilities

• Help investigate the design of a social robot for programming activities.
• Explore whether learning to program with this socially expressive robot improves computer science (CS) outcomes such as attitudes, self-efficacy, and knowledge.
• Participate in aspects of the research that match their interest and expertise.
• Interaction design, designing and running user studies, curriculum design, operationalizing learning theory, data collection, data analysis, and publication of results.

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within the School of Computer Science Research Department. 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.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in HCI, Game Design, Computer Science, Learning Sciences, Psychology Design or a related field.
• Strong methodological background.
• Possession of a strong interest in social interaction, computer science education, rapport and engagement.
• Experience using qualitative and quantitative methods including field observations, interviewing, longitudinal data collection and analysis.
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Additional requirements

• Successful background investigation

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the 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!

Location

Job Function

Position Type

Full Time/Part time

Pay Basis

More Information: