Scholarship Summary
The University of Zurich (UZH) is offering a PhD position within the Human-Centered Information Systems Engineering (HISE) group, led by Prof. Dr. Eva Bittner. This position focuses on the human-centered design of AI-augmented collaboration and work, exploring how AI-based systems can enhance human collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving without replacing human intelligence. The successful candidate will co-develop their doctoral project within HISE’s research agenda, contributing to cutting-edge research in information systems, AI, and human-centered design.
PhD Position at the University of Zurich: Human-Centered Design of AI-Augmented Collaboration and Work
Designation
PhD Candidate
Research Area
- Human–machine collaboration and hybrid intelligence
- Socio-technical design of collaboration processes and tools
- AI-supported creativity, problem-solving, and decision-making
- Augmenting sensemaking and shared understanding in groupwork with AI
- Understanding socio-cognitive mechanisms in human-AI collaboration and designing IS toward balanced engagement (cognitive load, learning vs. deskilling, etc.)
- Leveraging agentic IS for human-centered work; managing agentic workforces
Location
Department of Informatics
Binzmühlestrasse 11, 8050 Zürich, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification
- Hold (or be close to completing) a master’s degree in Information Systems (IS), Computer Science, Neuroscience, NeuroIS, Neuropsychology, or a related field with a strong interest in information systems.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in human-centered information systems design and human–AI collaboration.
- Bring, or be eager to develop, methodological rigor in design-oriented, empirical, or experimental IS research; experience with NeuroIS methods (particularly EEG) is a plus but not required.
- Motivated to take an active role in shaping your own doctoral research agenda within the group’s focus areas and aim at developing high-quality IS publications.
- Fluent in English (written and spoken); at least intermediate German is expected, with room to further develop language skills on the job.
- A team player, able to work independently and communicate proactively.
Scholarship Description
This PhD position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a societally relevant research topic at the intersection of information systems, AI, and human-centered design. The successful candidate will join a newly established and growing research group at a leading Swiss university, benefiting from close mentorship by Prof. Dr. Eva Bittner. The position includes teaching duties (e.g., supporting BSc/MSc courses related to information systems, human–AI collaboration, and socio-technical design), with mentorship provided for developing teaching skills. Generous support for professional travel and research needs is also included.
What UZH Offers:
| Category | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Work-Life Balance | Flexible working models (part-time, mobile working, job-sharing), childcare at kihz foundation. |
| Learning and Development | Wide range of continuing education courses, Language Center. |
| Food | Reduced prices at UZH cafeterias, Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution. |
| Healthcare | Special conditions on Academic Sports Association (ASVZ), free seasonal flu vaccinations, quiet rooms. |
| Discounts | Carsharing, vehicle rental, parking, digital hardware/software, mobile phone subscriptions. |
| Conditions of Employment | Employment according to public law policies of UZH. |
| International Services | Support for individuals from outside Switzerland. |
How to Apply
To apply, please gather the following documents as PDF files and send them to eva.bittner@uzh.ch:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Short cover letter
- List of publications
- All grade transcripts
- A list of at least three references
- Your BSc/MSc theses
The University of Zurich is committed to enhancing the number of women in scientific positions and particularly invites women to apply. Qualified female applicants will be given priority.
Last Date for Apply
Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis, so candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Apply Link
Email your application to: eva.bittner@uzh.ch
For more information on working at UZH, visit: https://www.uzh.ch/en/explore/work.html
