The Section on Human-Centred Computing invites applicants for one or two PhD fellowships in Human-Computer Interaction. The fellowships are part of the Villum Investigator project TRACTION: Theoretical Research in Human-computer Interaction, awarded to Kasper Hornbæk. The goal of the fellowships is to understand and advance the use of theory in all its forms in the evaluation and design of interactive systems. The start date is April 1 2027 or as soon as possible thereafter.
The project
The field of Human-Computer Interaction seeks to make computer systems in all forms useful and usable for end users. For the past 40 years, this has been done by creating methods for involving users in the design and evaluation of systems. However, we have all experienced computer systems that are frustrating, help solve the wrong tasks, or cause additional work. The field also struggles to make emerging technologies, such as AI, extended reality, and social media, benefit end users rather than deskill or distract them. The idea of this project is that the field lacks theories that can help us understand and predict when and why computer systems are useful and usable.
In the TRACTION center, we will focus on developing and applying theory about Human-Computer Interaction. We will depart from empirical studies of the difficulties of using existing theories. At the same time, we will develop theories about key problems in the field, such as what makes computer systems valuable to end users and how computers and humans influence each other in interaction. Finally, we will explore systematic approaches to using theory for understanding and predicting phenomena in interactive computing. The intended impact of the center is to shift Human-Computer Interaction from a craft of using methods for evaluation and design to a science of theories, cumulation, and generalization across technologies, users, and contexts of use.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for candidates in Human-Computer Interaction with a strong interest in theory and an outstanding track record of contributing to the development or application of theory in HCI. We welcome candidates working with different types of theory and across the broad range of research areas represented at leading HCI venues. We also welcome candidates from related fields whose expertise could clearly advance research on theory in HCI, including, for example, psychology, meta science, philosophy of science, AI, NLP, or behavioral economics.
The postdoc’s duties will include research in Human-Computer Interaction as well as some teaching. The position may also include other duties in support of research and teaching.
The University wishes its staff to reflect the diversity of society and therefore welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of personal background.
What is the group like?
The section on Human-centered Computing at University of Copenhagen is about 15 faculty focusing on different aspects on Human-computer Interaction; the section has an additional 20+ postdoctoral researchers, PhD students, and research assistants. We hold joint research meetings and have a thriving social environment. The group is a part of Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen.
The TRACTION project is a six-year endeavor funded by the Villum Foundation that started in 2025; we are currently 2 postdocs, 2 PhD students, and a center administrator. This call is part of a second wave of hiring up to four junior researchers at the PhD and postdoctoral levels. The idea is to create a thriving center with regular meetings, frequent summer schools and workshops, and many visiting researchers.
Further information on the Department is linked at www.diku.dk. Inquiries about the position can be made to the mentor for the postdocs, Professor Kasper Hornbæk, kash@diku.dk.
Terms of employment
The employment as Postdoc is a full-time position for 2 years. Starting date is 1th of April 2027, or after agreement.
The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.
Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.
Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.
The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking Apply for position below.
Please include
- Curriculum vitae
- Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
- Research plan – description of current and future research plans as a response to the text in this call (max 2 pages)
- Full publication list
- Separate reprints of three particularly relevant papers
- Up to three reference letters or contact information for people who have agreed to provide a reference letter.
The deadline for applications is 1th of December 2026, 23:59 GMT +2.
After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee. You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.
Interviews will be held in late January 2027.
Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.
Contact
Kasper Hornbæk
E-mail: pkv866@ku.dk
Info
Application deadline: 01-12-2026
Employment start: 01-04-2027
Working hours: Full time
Department/Location: Department of Computer Science