VRS: Simulation-based Design of Assistive Technology

We are seeking one visiting research student to join our HCI research team. This position focuses on developing simulation-based approaches for accessibility research and assistive technology design. The student will gain research experience and contribute to publications in leading HCI venues.

The candidate will support research on developing model-based simulation tools to enhance the design process of assistive technologies for blind and low-vision individuals. This work will be conducted under the supervision of Prof Kotaro Hara from the School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) at Singapore Management University (SMU).

Skills and Competencies: Desired skills include:

• Basic proficiency in programming languages such as Python and JavaScript is required
• Coursework or project experience in machine learning
• Interest in Human-Computer Interaction, accessibility research, or assistive technology development
• Basic understanding of user study methodologies and experimental design
• Familiarity with data analysis and visualization tools
• Experience with or willingness to learn 3D tracking systems and sensor data processing
• Prior research experience or publications in HCI, accessibility, or related areas will be advantageous
• Ability to work collaboratively in a research team environment
• Self-motivated individual who can work under supervision while showing initiative
• Good communication skills in English for academic writing and presentations
• Enthusiasm for working with participants with disabilities in a respectful and sensitive manner

Eligibility: The following criteria apply:

• Full-time graduate students pursuing Master or PhD degree.
• The selected candidate is expected to start their visit to SMU by end of 2025 or early 2026.
• The selected candidate must visit SMU between 6 months to 9 months.
• If selected, candidate must obtain a letter of recommendation from their home institution supervisor, written on official letterhead and including visit duration and supervisor's details.

Coverage: Visiting Research Students receive:

• A monthly salary at the prevailing rate of our school.
• Benefits include standard SMU employee coverage (including pre-employment medical checkup and workpass issuance fees)
• Other basic facilities provided during the stay: a computer, SMU internet login and email access, a cubicle workspace, and a temporary access card.
• Not covered: round-trip airfare and accommodation.

Application: Send your CV and a short statement of purpose (one-page max) to kotarohara@smu.edu.sg with a title “VRS: Simulation-based Design of Assistive Technology” by 30 Sept 2025, midnight SGT

Selection Process: Candidates will be evaluated based on the submitted matrial and interview. The position will close once a suitable candidate is identified.

Research Engineer

Job Description: The candidate will be responsible for conducting research on developing model-based simulation tools for enhancing user-centered design of assistive technologies for blind and low-vision individuals. Successful candidate will be part of an active research team led by Prof Kotaro HARA from School of Computing and Information Systems.

Candidate's core responsibilities are:

• Design and conduct controlled user studies with blind and low-vision participants to collect movement trajectory data for hand guidance and robot-assisted navigation tasks
• Analyze collected data including 3D trajectories, audio cue logs, and quantitative usability metrics
• Develop and implement machine learning-based user models to capture and predict user interaction patterns with assistive technologies
• Create simulation tools that integrate user models for rapid prototyping and evaluation of assistive technology designs
• Contribute to research publications targeting top-tier HCI venues (CHI, ASSETS, etc.)
• Maintain and operate tracking equipment
• Collaborate with local accessibility organizations for participant recruitment and community engagement
• Other duties assigned

Qualifications: Minimum Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Systems or closely related disciplines from a reputable institution of higher learning; with particular focus on Human-Computer Interaction

• Minimum 1 year of relevant research experience in Human-Computer Interaction or related fields
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, and C++ is required, with experience inmachine learning frameworks (e.g., JAX)
• Proven track record in conducting user studies. Experience in working with special populations, particularly individuals with visual impairments, is a plus.
• Demonstrated experience with 3D tracking systems, motion capture, and sensor data processing
• Excellent working knowledge of machine learning techniques, particularly user modeling approaches
• Technical skills in developing interactive prototypes using VR/AR platforms (Meta Quest, Unity) and robotics systems
• Experience with accessibility technologies, assistive devices, or inclusive design principles
• Ability to break down complex human-computer interaction problems and design effective solutions
• Strong statistical analysis skills and experience with experimental design for HCI research
• Applicants with research publications in HCI, accessibility, or assistive technology areas will be advantageous
• Ability to work cooperatively as part of a small, agile academic research team is essential
• Self-motivated individual who can work independently and collaboratively with team members
• Excellent communication skills for interacting sensitively with participants with disabilities

Application: Apply from https://smu.recruiterpal.com/career/jobs/avq3b