Graduate Student Positions in Human-Computer Interaction, Visual Analytics, and 3D User Interfaces

Wolfgang Stuerzlinger and his lab are looking for several people to join our group for 2015. Positions are limited and highly competitive, so only the best candidates will be considered.

Open positions
• MSc or PhD student in Visual Analytics
• MSc or PhD student in 3D User Interfaces
• MSc or PhD student in Human-Computer Interaction

Wolfgang Stuerzlinger’s research group specializes in a range of topics in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Virtual Reality (VR). The general goal is user interfaces fit for everyday use.
In HCI, we study and design primary user interaction technologies, such as pointing, object group selection and text entry. Furthermore, in the face of increasing popularity of user interfaces that are not 100% reliable, such as speech and gesture recognition, we look at how humans interact with such technologies, and how systems designers can ameliorate limitations.
For screens ranging from watches to walls, we work on better methods for user interface creation, with a focus on GUI layout. Additionally, we create and study novel human-in-the-loop systems to facilitate Visual Analytics for Big Data as well as how one can apply the gained insights in predictive systems.
In Virtual Reality, we research 3D pointing, design object selection, manipulation and navigation methods across many VR input and output technologies. Furthermore, we investigate 3D user interfaces that combine the best of the 2D and 3D worlds. Moreover, we work on new 3D tracking and immersive display systems, including CAVEs, towards improved VR experiences.
We have a strong research record, with publications in the top venues in HCI, VR, and Computer Graphics.

Our research group prides itself on a strong collaborative culture with a friendly and engaging atmosphere. Candidates are expected to work well with others.

Your skill set must match the requirements for the above projects. To be considered you must have:
• strong programming skills
• strong English writing and oral communication skills
• good user interface design skills
• a demonstration of strong interest in the projects you have engaged with
• for MSc (PhD) applicants, a Bachelor (Master’s) degree in Computer Science, HCI or related areas with a GPA that meets SFU’s admission requirements.
• for PhD applicants, scientific publications in relevant areas.
• a sense of humor

Simon Fraser University, SFU, ranks consistently as one of the top universities in Canada. Stuerzlinger’s lab is part of SIAT, a young, vibrant department at SFU with research in HCI, interaction design, and media arts. It is located at the SFU Surrey campus in Greater Vancouver. Greater Vancouver lies along the west coast of Canada where the Pacific Ocean meets the Coast Mountain range. With a population of over 2 million, Greater Vancouver is known as one of the most ethnically diverse areas in Canada and has been ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world based on quality of life. Moreover, Vancouver is a great destination for those who love the outdoors (e.g., skiing, hiking, water sports) and the indoors (e.g., museums, art, theatre, hockey).

Funding will be provided at levels commensurate with other Canadian universities. Lab members receive full funding to attend international conferences, such as ACM CHI, UIST, IEEE VIS, and VR, to present papers about their work in our group. Expected completion time is 2 years for a thesis-based Master’s degree and 4 years for a PhD. Students are also typically sought after for internships with our industrial collaborators. These include major international software companies within Canada, the United States, and Europe.

Interested applicants should email Wolfgang well before the deadline (January 31st, 2015). Emails should include:
• a description of research interests related to my labs research
• a curriculum vitae
• contact information for three referees
Once you have discussed your interest in joining with Wolfgang (see above), you will receive more information about how to follow the normal application process for the chosen graduate program.

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