The Department of Computer Science at Aalborg University invites applications for two fully funded PhD positions working with Professor Niels van Berkel. The earliest starting date for these positions is January 1, 2027.
The project: Safeguarding Users’ Cognitive Autonomy in Human-AI Interaction
Cognitive autonomy, the fundamental ability to think independently, is under threat from growing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) technology. While designed to assist, AI recommendations may inadvertently impede cognitive reasoning and steer decision-making. This raises novel questions about designing systems that assist users while supporting independent thinking. To safeguard users’ cognitive autonomy, this project aims to identify when users’ cognitive autonomy is at risk and how timely digital interventions can support independent thinking.
Each PhD position is a three-year role and is funded by a DFF research project (‘Safeguarding Users’ Cognitive Autonomy in Human-AI Interaction’).
Research objectives
This project develops methods to detect changes in users' cognitive load and designs digital interventions that support cognitive autonomy in human-AI interaction. The two PhD positions bring complementary strengths to this project.
The first position explores how everyday digital interaction, such as typing and mouse movement, can reveal how mentally demanding a task is and how this fluctuates over time. This suits candidates with a strong technical background and an interest in human behaviour and cognition.
The second position focuses on designing and evaluating cognitive support interventions, working with stakeholders to co-design techniques and assess their impact through controlled studies. This suits candidates with strong user-centred research skills and experience in mixed-methods evaluation.
Both positions include a research stay abroad. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to shape the project further based on their interests.
Scientific dissemination is expected to focus on leading Human-Computer Interaction venues. For further information about the project, visit: https://dff.dk/en/our-funded-projects/meet-the-researchers/research-leaders/eksterne-personer-en/research-leaders-2026/niels-van-berkel/.
Qualification requirements
PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a master’s degree. They are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1124 of September 19, 2025, on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions.
According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time. More information is available online.
Who Aalborg Universitet is
Candidates will be part of the Human Augmentation and Collaboration research group (https://www.cs.aau.dk/research/research-groups/human-augmentation-and-collaboration-hac), an ambitious and supportive research environment in which Aalborg Universitet designs and evaluates interactive systems that extend human cognitive, affective, and collaborative capabilities in digital environments. Aalborg Universitet frequently publishes in the leading venues in Human-Computer Interaction and is supported through a strong network of collaborators.
Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the project’s principal investigator, Professor Niels van Berkel (nielsvanberkel@cs.aau.dk), prior to applying to discuss the scientific aspects of the position.
How to apply
Your application must include the following:
- Application letter: A maximum two-page letter stating reasons for applying and qualifications in relation to the position. Applicants should indicate in their application letter which of the two PhD positions they are applying for, or express interest in either.
- Project description: A maximum three-page description outlining the applicant’s ideas on research directions within the context of the project, including a discussion of relevant related work.
- List of publications, if any.
- List of reference contact(s).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Diplomas (bachelor’s and master’s degrees).
Clearly AI-generated application material, as well as applications that fall outside of the project’s scope, will be dismissed.
The application must be submitted via Aalborg University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aalborg University’s website.
Aalborg Universitet aims to reflect the surrounding society and values diversity. Therefore, everyone, regardless of personal background and orientation, is encouraged to apply.
