PhD Collaborative AI Agents

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Kennziffer 1830  

The FernUniversität in Hagen, Germany’s only state distance-learning university, catering to over 72,000 students, providing flexible and accessible higher education opportunities to students in diverse life situations. The university conducts extensive theoretical and applied research across its five faculties, its central research unit CATALPA, and interdisciplinary research clusters. At CATALPA, over 60 researchers collaborate to support personalized learning using AI and adaptive systems and to understand the diversity of learners and teachers as a natural part of teaching.

 

 

PhD Collaborative AI Agents   Full-time 100% Fixed- term 36 months in pay group E 13 TV-L   

We are seeking a PhD candidate to join the newly established research professorship on Learning Sciences at CATALPA, Center of Advanced Technology for Assisted Learning and Predictive Analytics, at the FernUniversität in Hagen as soon as possible.

 

The research professorship researches the design and evaluation of AI methods in teaching and learning support. The PhD project should research the integration of conversational agents in learning environments for collaborative writing and programming education. These environments should integrate a mix of peer-review and agent-based (AI) support. In collaboration with existing projects and software platforms at the FernUniversität in Hagen the integration of conversational agents into collaborative learning scenarios will be developed. The PhD project will first analyse and describe current collaboration scenarios in courses at the FernUniversität in Hagen and beyond. Second prototypes for learning and assessment tasks will be developed which should be done in mixed groups of human users and specified conversational agents. Third these prototypes will be evaluated student engagement, motivation as also shared regulation processes.

 

 

 

Your tasks:

• Establish independent research priorities to achieve your scientific qualification (doctorate).

  
  

• Contribute to the design and development of innovative collaboration agents.

  
  

• Engage with stakeholders, including students and educators, to gather requirements and feedback on the tools developed.

  
  

• Conduct empirical research, including data collection, analysis and interpretation using both quantitative and qualitative methods.

  
  

• Prepare findings for publication in high-impact journals and present at (inter)national conferences.

  
  

• Participation in events organized by CATALPA and the CATALPA Graduate School, such as the research colloquium, the poster symposium, or workshops. 

  
  

• Together with other CATALPA researchers, you may contribute to the preparation of interdisciplinary third-party funding applications.

  
  

• There are no teaching obligations.

  
  

Your profile:

• A master’s degree in Psychology, Educational Science, Learning Science, Educational Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Human-Computer Interaction, or another relevant field.

  
  

• Strong interest in the academic work and research topics of the research group.

  
  

• Programming skills are a plus and experience with data analysis tools and methodologies (e.g., Python, R).

  
  

• Knowledge of AI technologies, data visualization and/or UX/UI design particularly in educational contexts, is highly desirable, but not mandatory.

  
  

• Experience in conducting research, with a good understanding of both quantitative and qualitative research methods is a plus.

  
  

• For doctoral applicants: Initial experience with scientific publishing is an advantage.

  
  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proficiency in English. Knowledge of German is not required.

  
  

• Able to work independently and as part of a team, proactive, flexible, growth-oriented, and eager to learn.

  
  

What we offer:

The position has a contract period of 3 years and provide you with an opportunity to acquire a scientific qualification. If the applicant meets the academic requirements and has sufficient personal qualifications, the salary offered will be based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector. The position is an excellent opportunity for researchers passionate about using technology to enhance learning and education. Candidates should be prepared to work in a multidisciplinary, innovative, dynamic environment and contribute to ongoing research projects that will be invaluable in educational practice. CATALPA offers an interdisciplinary working environment with a well-developed research infrastructure, intensive supervision, regular colloquia, and a diverse array of research-related training opportunities. We strive to offer a good work-life balance, remote work possibilities (working from home), and a wide range of occupational health and wellness programs.

For any questions, please reach out to

Prof. Dr. Marcus Specht
Tel.: (+49) 02331 987-4390
E-Mail: marcus.specht@fernuni-hagen.de

 

Have we sparked your interest? If so, we look forward to receiving your application in English. Upload your documents (cover letter, CV, copies of qualifications, etc) to our online application system by 12.06.2025.

 

 

 

We are committed to equal opportunities:

 

The FernUniversität in Hagen is committed to increasing the proportion of women in research and teaching. Qualified female applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. In cases of equal qualifications, skills, and professional achievements, preference will be given to female candidates, unless there are compelling reasons for preferring an outstanding male candidate.

 

Candidates with disabilities are also encouraged to apply.

 

FernUniversität in Hagen
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Universitätsstraße 47
58097 Hagen