Wissenschaftliche/r Mitarbeiter/in (m/w/d) (Post Doc) - Human-Computer Interaction

Far-sighted for people and society: Trier University conducts relevant research and teaching for nature, society, and a sustainable future. At the heart of its work are innovation, diversity, and close cooperation in research, teaching, and knowledge transfer across disciplinary and geographical boundaries. With more than 10,000 students and around 2,000 employees, Trier University is one of the largest employers in the European border region of Trier. Short distances across a green campus, a welcoming culture shaped by diversity and tolerance, and a vibrant academic life provide the freedom to develop individual potential.

The following position is available in the Faculty IV, Department of Computer Science at Trier University, in the Human-Computer Interaction group, for the period from January 1, 2027, to December 31, 2029:

Wissenschaftliche/r Mitarbeiter/in (m/w/d) (PostDoc)

(E 13 TV-L, 100%, fixed-term following WissZeitVG, for the maximum of 3 years. The position is established for scientific qualification (Habilitation).)

What You Will Do

The Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) group at Trier University focuses on the design, development, and evaluation of interactive immersive systems. The group combines methods from computer science with insights from psychology and related disciplines. The group’s main research areas include interaction research for virtual and augmented reality, immersive interaction and visualization, and human-centered intelligent systems (AI). Current research projects investigate, among other topics, intuitive locomotion in virtual environments, the use of virtual reality for ergonomic workplace assessment, and augmented reality and conversational virtual agents to support complex technical tasks. The group’s research combines fundamental HCI questions with practical application scenarios. Its aim is to scientifically investigate new forms of interaction and develop technologies that meaningfully support people in learning, working, and interacting with complex digital systems.

To support the work of the HCI group at Trier University, we are seeking a postdoctoral researcher who will actively contribute to the further development of the group’s research profile, both in research and teaching. A key focus will be on developing the candidate’s own academic profile while also strengthening and further developing the group’s research profile. This will involve formulating independent research questions and objectives in the field of interaction research, particularly in virtual and augmented reality and, where appropriate, human-centered artificial intelligence.

The successful candidate will be expected to support doctoral researchers in their research projects, develop research proposals, and contribute to the successful acquisition of external research funding. The position also provides opportunities for further academic qualification through independent research and teaching. It includes teaching responsibilities within the degree programs offered by the Department of Computer Science at Trier University, including Computer Science, Business Information Systems, Human-Centered AI, and Data Science. The opportunity to pursue a habilitation is available.

Requirements

We are looking for a highly motivated individual with an academic background and a strong interest in the design and development of interactive technologies, particularly in the fields of human-computer interaction and virtual and augmented reality. Ideally, the candidate will combine technical expertise with a strong research interest and creativity. Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• A master’s degree in Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, or a closely related field.
• A PhD in Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, or a closely related field, or a PhD in one of these fields that is nearing completion.
• Knowledge of HCI principles, empirical methods, and user-centered design.
• Demonstrated research experience with virtual reality and augmented reality technologies.
• Programming skills in one or more languages, such as Python, C++, JavaScript, or similar.
• Knowledge of game engines or XR development platforms, such as Unity or Unreal Engine.
• Experience in designing, conducting, and analyzing user studies.
• Good written and spoken English skills.

The following qualifications and experience would be desirable but are not required:

• Experience in applying for external research funding, research project planning, and project implementation.
• Experience supervising students and doctoral researchers.
• Experience in university-level teaching.

What We Offer

As a fully funded postdoctoral researcher, you will benefit from a supportive research environment and numerous opportunities for academic and professional development at Trier University. Specifically, we offer:

• Full funding for three years (100% full-time position), including a competitive salary and social benefits.
• The opportunity to pursue a habilitation and further academic qualifications.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities, laboratories, and technical infrastructure.
• Close supervision and mentoring by experienced researchers and academic staff.
• Opportunities to collaborate with interdisciplinary and international research teams.
• Funding and support for participation in international conferences, workshops, and summer schools.
• Access to professional development programs focusing on transferable skills, such as academic writing, teaching, and project management, offered by GUT at Trier University.
• A vibrant academic environment with seminars, guest lectures, and networking opportunities.
• Support for publishing research findings in high-impact academic journals and presenting them at leading scientific conferences.
• Opportunities to collaborate with industry partners and work on practical applications.
• Access to university services, including libraries, career centers, and well-being support services.

The employment requirements are set out in § 57 Abs. 2 and 3 of the Rhineland-Palatinate Higher Education Act (HochSchG). In particular, applicants must have completed an above-average university degree in Computer Science (Master’s, Diplom, or equivalent).

Trier University is committed to increasing the number of female employees and strongly encourages women to apply. Severely disabled persons and persons treated as such under Section 2 (3) of SGB IX will be given preferential consideration if they are suitably qualified (please enclose proof).

Application

Please submit your application documents digitally as a single PDF file no later than 31.10.2026 to Benjamin Weyers ([email protected]).

Applications via E-Mail to:
[email protected]
Universität Trier, HCI
z. H. Benjamin Weyers
54286 Trier

Contant for Questions:
Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Benjamin Weyers
Tel. +49 651 201-2852 Mail: [email protected]
www.uni-trier.de

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