PhD Studentship in Human-Computer Interaction and Critical Computing

About the role

The Aspirational Computing Lab in the Department of Computer Science and Technology at the University of Cambridge offers a fixed-term PhD studentship (funds available for 3.5 years) combining human-computer interaction (HCI) and critical computing. The goal is to launch one "deceptive by design" project, supervised by Dr Seaborn. The programme opens in September 2026.

Key responsibilities

• Propose a specific research question with a methodology and research plan, within the scope of the Aspirational Computing Lab and supervisable by Dr Seaborn.
• Work closely with Dr Seaborn and senior researchers in the first half of the studentship to train on the topic and methods.
• In the second half, take a leading role in the research for the doctoral dissertation.
• Join other projects, take part in research communication and outreach, and support other roles, including training in small-group teaching and undergraduate supervision.

Required profile

• First-class honours degree or equivalent; a Master's degree or other postgraduate work is highly desirable, and should relate to HCI and/or critical computing.
• Solid understanding of HCI fundamentals and user-centred design.
• Self-motivated, collaboration-oriented and open to interdisciplinary work.
• Applicants must contact Dr Seaborn in advance to check topic and background fit.

Required skills

• Solid understanding of research methods with human participants, especially experimental design.
• Basic understanding of data analysis tools such as R and methods such as thematic analysis.
• Familiarity with deception in computing and HCI.
• Publications, industrial output or portfolio items, including open-source projects.
• Practical skills in at least two of: programming and/or machine learning, interaction design, research design.

Applications are made online through the University's Applicant Portal, quoting reference NR50923. They require academic transcripts, a CV, two academic references, a research summary, a research proposal (about 2 pages), a first-year deliverable outline, career goals and a motivation statement, plus details of any circumstances affecting work on sensitive topics. Successful candidates are expected to apply for University funding competitions; a Home Rate Studentship may be offered if funding is unsuccessful.