PhD and postdoc positions in Human-centred AI

The Augment group is is one of the research units of the Human-Computer-Interaction section of the Department of Computer Science of KU Leuven. Research in the Augment group focuses on Human-Centered AI, an emerging discipline that aims to amplify and augment human abilities and preserve human control in order to make AI systems more productive, enjoyable, and fair. The objective is to enable end-users to understand the rationale of AI models and to enable them to steer models with input and feedback. The approach is researched to increase appropriate trust, acceptance and accuracy of models and to empower users to be an active and responsive part-taker in data-driven solutions. The focus is on visualisation and interaction techniques, using the full spectrum of hardware from small mobile devices to large multi-touch displays. Applications include learning analytics, precision agriculture, healthcare, media consumption, digital humanities, food & nutrition, fintech and human resources.
Website unit

Project

We are looking for PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers to join our team in several new projects on human-centered explainability in AI systems. These projects span various application domains, including human resources, healthcare, and explainable constraint solving.

The overarching goal is to develop explanation methods that are understandable, actionable, and trustworthy for end users. This includes explaining AI-driven decision-making (e.g., job matching, scheduling, or medical support), detecting and communicating potential biases in data and models, and supporting transparent and inclusive discussions around fairness. A strong emphasis is placed on human-computer interaction and the design of interactive user interfaces tailored to the needs of diverse stakeholders such as recruiters, job seekers, patients, and domain experts.

Profile

We are specifically looking for candidates who combine a strong background in AI and programming with solid knowledge of human-computer interaction methods, such as expertise in co-design methods and experience in conducting user studies.

We expect from applicants:

• an excellent Master degree in Computer Science or related discipline
• strong programming skills
• strong background in AI
• the ability to do independent research
• a  good background and interest in human-computer interaction research: this is a strong requirement
• strong commitment and the ability to work in a team
• a high level of proficiency in English, both spoken and written.

Offer

Funding is available immediately. The research will be carried out at the Department of Computer Science of KU Leuven.

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Katrien Verbert, tel.: +32 16 32 82 86, mail: [email protected] or Mr. Robin De Croon, tel.: +32 16 37 39 76, mail: [email protected].

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.