PhD Student in Human-Computer Interaction and Critical Computing (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years.

A doctoral studentship is available in the forthcoming Aspirational Computing Lab (February 2026) in the Department of Computer Science and Technology (CST) at the University of Cambridge.

The goal of this PhD programme is to launch one "deceptive by design" project that combines the perspectives of human-computer interaction (HCI) and critical computing. High-level topics include:

• social identity cues in the design of LLM-based chatbots or social robots
• trust and reliance on conversational agents designed to be charming and disarming
• so-called "dark patterns" and manipulative tactics in the user interfaces of a range of technologies
• voice and vocal cues that subtly change behaviour

Other critical computing topics that may be difficult to research in certain nations at this time-including all matters of diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI), accessibility and inclusive design, feminism and intersectionality, trans and gender diversity studies, and misinformation and information deception-will also be considered.

The applicant is expected to propose a specific research question that demonstrates their interest and knowledge plus an ability to think as a researcher within the joint context of HCI and critical computing.

In the first half year, the candidate will work closely with Dr. Seaborn and senior researchers to train and gain experience on the research topic and relevant methods. By the second half, the candidate will take on a leading role and begin carrying out the research comprising their doctoral dissertation. The candidate is expected to join other projects within and outside of the lab and department and participate in research communication and outreach, as well as other supporting roles. Notably, the candidate will be trained in small group teaching and invited to take on undergraduate supervisions. Candidates must be self-motivated, collaboration-oriented, and open to interdisciplinary work and team contexts.

Qualifications/Skills

• Holding a first-class honours degree or equivalent; a Master's-level degree (or other postgraduate work) is highly desirable; these should be relevant to HCI and/or critical computing, ideally in Computer Science, Industrial Engineering, Interaction Design, or a related field
• Solid understanding of HCI fundamentals
• Solid communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds and across disciplinary conventions
• Basic knowledge of research tools and methods, including statistics platforms like R and/or thematic analysis
• Basic knowledge of user-centred design and research methods involving human participants
• Ideally, familiarity with deception in design within the context of computing
• Ideally, relevant publications, industrial output, or portfolio items, including open source projects
• Ideally, practical skills in one of (a) programming, (b) machine learning, and/or (c) design

Applicants must contact Dr. Seaborn (katie.seaborn@cst.cam.ac.uk) in advance to assess topic and background fit. Please include a CV and 1-page research statement that shows evidence of engagement with this advert and Dr. Seaborn's research. Further information on the PhD in Computer Science programme can be found at: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/cscspdpcs/apply

All applications should be made online via the University's Applicant Portal: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/cscspdpcs/apply. Please quote the reference NR47021 in the Research Topic so that applications can be routed directly to Dr. Seaborn.

Applications should include academic transcripts, a CV, and 2 references. An application is only complete when all supporting documents, including the 2 academic references, are submitted. It is your responsibility to ensure that both referees submit their references before the closing date. Please also explain your motivation-why you wish to pursue a PhD in this area and in Dr. Seaborn's lab specifically-outline your research interests and background, and describe the qualities and experience you will bring to the role.

Applicants are expected to apply for the University Funding Competitions, but, in the event of an unsuccessful funding application, Dr. Seaborn may have the ability to award the successful candidate with a Home Fee Studentship. Note that a successful international student would need to self-fund the difference between the home and international fees.

The University actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. Dr. Seaborn is specifically seeking applicants who identify as diverse and/or cannot safely carry out work on diversity topics in their nation of residence. Dr. Seaborn is leading and listed as a supporter on the IDE+A Network: https://the-idea.network

Please quote reference NR47021 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Key information

• Department/location: Department of Computer Science and Technology
• Reference: NR47021
• Category: Studentships
• Date published: 20 August 2025
• Closing date: 2 December 2025