Research Center Trustworthy Data Science and Security
Role details
Job location
Tech stack
Job description
Postdoctoral Researcher in Responsible Immersive/ Extended Reality (AR/VR/MR/CR) Technologies (f/m/d, No. 624-25) EG 14 TV-L As part of the Research Alliance Ruhr, the Research Centre for Trustworthy Data Science and Security unites the expertise of its member universities to bridge the gaps between Psychology & Social Sciences, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Data Science & Statistical Learning, Law, Cybersecurity & Privacy, and more. The Compliant & Accountable Systems Group seeks a post-doctoral researcher to work on issues relating to responsible immersive and extended reality (XR) technologies. Our group takes an interdisciplinary, socio-technical approach, exploring the technical, legal, policy, social, and user dimensions to improve the governance of emerging technologies to help ensure they are appropriate, secure, safe, accountable, and aligned with the public good. Start of employment as soon as possible Duration of employment 1 year Working time 100 percent of a full time position, part time is possible Your main tasks We are seeking a post-doctoral researcher to explore how immersive and extended reality (AR/VR/MR/CR/metaverse) technologies can be responsibly developed, governed and their harms managed. Depending on your expertise, this may involve analysing how XR systems and platforms operate in practice, conducting empirical and user-focused research into their impacts, or developing technical, design and governance approaches that enhance accountability, transparency, privacy and safety. The position offers scope to shape the research according to your strengths and interests, supported by an interdisciplinary team and international collaborations.
- Establish and lead a new and coherent research direction in Responsible XR.
- Conduct and publish high-quality research in leading forums (ACM/IEEE), contributing to visibility and leadership in the field.
- Support the supervision, instruction and mentoring of students and junior researchers.
- Collaborate across disciplines and institutions, contributing to a supportive research culture, and engage with external communities including industry, policy and civil society.
- Contribute to shaping new research agendas, funding proposals and collaborative projects within and beyond the group. Your profile We welcome applicants with a wide range of interests and backgrounds that are relevant to responsible immersive/XR technology.
Requirements
A PhD degree in a relevant discipline. Candidates who are close to completing their PhD are also encouraged to apply; the appointment will commence after the PhD has been awarded.
- A strong track record in immersive tech/XR/metaverse research, demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications.
- A keen and demonstrable interest in responsibility, governance, accountability, privacy, safety, or the broader implications of XR and immersive technologies.
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English
- The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary setting
Benefits & conditions
Successful candidates will join the Compliant & Accountable Systems Group, which is part of the broader RC-Trust: Research Centre for Trustworthy Data Science and Security. RC-Trust is a multi-university collaboration focusing on developing trustworthy AI and emerging technologies through a human-centred, interdisciplinary approach. Work will also involve collaboration with the University of Cambridge and others. Candidates will have access to:
- A highly interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment.
- Travel opportunities for conferences, workshops, and research collaborations.
- Opportunities to engage with external stakeholders and contribute to policy discussions.
- A network of researchers and industry partners working on AI and technology governance. This position is embedded in an internationally recognised research environment. Your research will play a crucial role in developing our new Research Centre and promoting trustworthy technology to the general public. Our extensive network of researchers and industry partners ensures a seamless transition into your next career step, whether in academia or international research institutions.
