2026 PhD Position in Technology for Mixed Ability Interaction at the University of Duisburg-Essen

The Inclusive Technology and Collective Engagement Group seeks a PhD researcher to work on the development of novel technologies to help foster mutual engagement between people with and without disabilities.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineMay 8, 2026
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorUniversity of Duisburg-Essen
• City to studyNorth Rhine-Westphalia
• School to studyUniversity of Duisburg-Essen
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

Successful candidates will join the Inclusive Technology and Collective Engagement Group, which is part of the broader RC-Trust : Research Center for Trustworthy Data Science and Security. RC-Trust is a multi-university collaboration focusing on developing trustworthy intelligent systems through a human-centered, interdisciplinary approach. Work will also involve collaboration with the Center for Digital Language Inclusion based at University College London.

Candidates will have access to:

• A highly interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment.
• Opportunities to engage with external stakeholders and contribute to the creation of novel tools with direct impact on the lives of persons with disabilities.
• Travel opportunities for conferences, workshops, and research collaborations.
• A network of researchers, clinical and industry partners, as well as international disability organizations.

Requirements

We welcome applicants from a wide range of disciplines, including computer science and engineering (eg AI/ML, HCI, HRI, NLP, robotics), assistive technology & rehabilitation engineering, game and media design to name a few.

You should have:

• A strong Master's degree (completed, near-completion, or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline
• A demonstrated interest in Accessibility and Inclusive Technology
• Excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills in English
• The ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary setting

Whether your strengths lie in technical development, empirical user studies, participatory design, or somewhere else, we encourage you to apply.

Application Documents

• Motivation letter
• 1-page summary of your expected project
• CV
• Copies of your certificates
• 2 candidates who can provide a reference letter for you

Check also:
2026 Fully Funded Humboldt Research Fellowship
2026 Konrad Adenauer Foundation Scholarship

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Applications and requests for information can be sent via email directly to Prof. Dr. Giulia Barbareschi ( [email protected] ) quoting the reference number 171-26.

For more information, kindly visit the UDE webpage.