Position: Research Assistants/Research Associates

Category: An initial one-year employment contract will be offered with the possibility for renewal depending on performance and project needs.

Location: Nicosia, Cyprus

Preferred Start Date: DATE or as soon thereafter.

Application Deadline: Remain open until the positions are filled (relevant to Research Associates)

No. Of Positions: 3

About the position

The Extended Experiences (EX) MRG (https://ex.cyens.org.cy/) focuses on virtual and augmented environments as well as human-machine interactions generated by computer technology and wearables. Advanced extended reality combines human senses, and it requires new strategies for the design and implementation of novel applications and systems. The goal of this MRG is to focus on three related broad areas including: (a) extended reality, (b) advanced interaction and (c) physiological interfaces.

The successful candidates will have the opportunity to conduct fundamental and/or applied research in the aforementioned areas. Where applicable, candidates may also participate in the preparation of project reports and deliverables, research proposals for funding, software development, and travel abroad for dissemination activities. Furthermore, successful candidates will be encouraged to publish/present their research results in prestigious international conferences and journals.

Responsibilities of Research Assistant/Research Associate:

1. The successful candidates will have the opportunity to conduct applied research in the aforementioned areas, towards the development of extended experience solutions.

2. Indicatively, the MRG is looking for candidates who can design and develop robust, interactive virtual and augmented reality technologies for education.

3. Individuals with research / innovation experience in relevant application domains, in addition to knowledge of key virtual and augmented reality technologies as well as computer graphics, are particularly encouraged to apply.

4. Position holders are expected to publish/present their research results in prestigious international conferences and journals and contribute to the Center’s key performance indicators by participating in the preparation of research and innovation proposals, in the preparation of project reports and deliverables, and in dissemination activities.
   

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the Extended Experiences (EX) MRG Leader, Associate Professor Fotis Liarokapis.

General qualifications and requirements

1. B.Sc. / M.Sc. / Ph.D. from an accredited university in Computer Graphics, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related area. (Candidates with other backgrounds but with an otherwise solid profile may also be considered.)

2. Ability to independently identify problems and carry out research work within the scope of the MRG.

3. Ability to interact with stakeholders in application domains and identify opportunities for collaboration.

4. Excellent programming skills (e.g., C, C++, C#, Python, Java), mathematical maturity, and ability to learn quickly.

5. Computer games development skills for Unity / Unreal are considered an advantage.

6. Mobile application development skills for Android / iOS are considered an advantage.

7. Previous research experience and high impact research publications will be considered an advantage.

8. Previous relevant industrial / innovation / entrepreneurship experience and interest will be considered an advantage.

9. Previous grant-writing experience will be considered an advantage.

10. Language requirements: Very good knowledge of English, especially in reading technical / research articles.

For non-EU applicants a work permit will be required

Profile of the ideal candidate:

1. Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative and work independently.  

2. Strong organizational, communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, having the ability to deal confidently and politely with enquiries.  

3. Very good analytical skills coupled with attention to detail.  

4. Dynamic, adaptable, hands-on and results driven.

5. A team player with an ability to work independently and under pressure. 

6. High levels of commitment, energy, and drive.

7. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

Take advantage of this opportunity for your professional and personal development by being a part of our fast- growing Research and Innovation Centre of Excellence. A very attractive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate according to qualifications and experience.

Application process

For full consideration, interested applicants should submit the following items via the online application form and mention the position you are applying for: “Application for Research Assistant/Research Associate – Extended Experiences (EX) MRG”:

Process for Research Associates:

1. A cover letter which clearly specifies 1) contact details, 2) employment availability date, 3) part-time or full-time availability

2. A detailed curriculum vitae in English.

3. Copies of academic transcripts

4. Description of their academic and research experiences as well as any relevant industrial / innovation / entrepreneurship experience, where applicable (500 words maximum).

5. Contact details of two University professors or one University professor and one industry referee who will provide the letters.

6. Two (2) representative publications (if applicable).

7. Two (2) representative innovation outcomes / products (if applicable).

Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

In case you previously applied for a post at CYENS CoE, a new application is required.

For general enquiries, applicants may contact the HR Department of CYENS, Centre of Excellence at vacancies@cyens.org.cy .