Research Associate(s) for "Virtual Reality for Well-being" Multidisciplinary Research Group

Research Associates Positions: Research Associate(s) for “Virtual Reality for Well-being” Multidisciplinary Research Group (MRG)

Position Category: a one-year employment contract will be offered with potential renewal which includes a very attractive remuneration according to qualifications and expertise.
Location: Full-time physical presence at RISE, Nicosia, Cyprus
 
The Research Centre on Interactive Media, Smart Systems and Emerging Technologies (RISE) is a newly founded research and innovation Centre of Excellence in Cyprus designed to integrate academic research and industrial innovation towards sustainable fuelling of the scientific, technological and economic growth of Cyprus and Europe. For further information about the Centre, please visit www.rise.org.cy.

The Virtual Reality for Well-being MRG (VR WELL-BEING MRG) will target research on Virtual Reality for well-being, broadly construed. ‘Well-being’ refers to the general social, economic, psychological, spiritual, or medical positive condition of an individual or a group. This MRG will contribute to these aspects, either directly by having participants experience simulated conditions within virtual environments, or indirectly by exploiting the technological outputs of related VR projects. The first focus of VR WELL-BEING MRG will aim humans’ medical positive condition. More specifically, the MRG will address physical health (rehabilitation) and/or mental health. We will push the capabilities of VR beyond the limits of the current state-of-the-art, by exploiting VR to effectively change the real physical capabilities of the participants, and allow for the novel exploration of how virtual worlds can impact physical reality. This will be done by exploiting brain plasticity and concepts from social neuroscience and social psychology.
 
The successful candidate(s) will have the opportunity to conduct applied research in the aforementioned areas. The position holder will also participate in the preparation of project reports and deliverables, research proposals for funding and travel abroad for dissemination activities. Furthermore, position holders should publish/present their research results in prestigious international conferences and journals and contribute to the research centre’s key performance indicators. The successful candidate(s) will work under the supervision of the Team Leader of the VR WELL-BEING MRG Dr Despina Michael-Grigoriou.
 
Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and postgraduate degree in a relevant field (e.g. Interactive Media, Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Neuroscience, Psychology) from an accredited institution
• Strong computer programming skills and/or excellent knowledge of a game engine (e.g. Unity) is a must
• Familiarisation/knowledge of 3D modelling is a must
• Prior experience in experimental research (related to VR)/statistical analysis is preferred
• Previous experience with biosignal acquisitions considered an advantage
• High-impact research publications on relevant topics (a must for PhD holders/an advantage for non-PhD holders)
• Previous grant-writing experience considered an advantage
• Previous relevant industrial experience will be considered an advantage
• Excellent knowledge of both spoken and written English
• For non EU applicants a work permit will be required

 
Benefits
A very attractive remuneration package will be offered to successful candidates according to qualifications and experience.
 
Interested candidates should submit the following items via email to vacancies@rise.org.cy

1. A cover letter which clearly specifies (i) employment availability date, and (ii) part-time or full time availability.
2. Description of their academic and research experiences as well as any relevant industrial experience where applicable (500 words maximum)
3. A detailed CV
4. Copies of degree certificates (BSc/MSc/PhD)
5. Two representative publications (if applicable)
6. Contact details of two referees, either two University professors or one University professor and one industry referee.

 
Note that if you previously applied for a research post at RISE, a new application is required.

The deadline for applications is the 29th of March 2019.
 
For general inquiries, applicants may contact the Senior HR Business Partner of the Research Centre on Interactive Media, Smart Systems and Emerging Technologies at vacancies@rise.org.cy
RISE is an equal opportunity employer and the position is open to everyone, internationally.
All applications are treated in the strictest confidence.