PhD in Virtual Reality and Human-Computer Interaction in Arts et Metiers – France

Summary

The position is a fully funded PhD in Virtual Reality, Human‑Machine Interaction and non‑verbal communication for distributed improvisational theatre, hosted by Arts et Metiers Institut de Laval (ENSAM) in France. The 36‑month full‑time contract is funded by the Collectivités Territoriales de la Mayenne. The candidate will conduct bibliographic research, develop experimental protocols and collaborative XR applications, run experimental campaigns, perform statistical analyses and publish results at international venues. Teaching duties are required, telework is not allowed, and the role offers a 35‑hour weekly schedule with generous leave and transport benefits. Applicants must hold a Master 2 or engineering degree, be proficient in French and English, and possess skills in real‑time 3D engine development and HCI research.

Key Facts

Department	Arts et Metiers Institut de Laval (ENSAM)
Position Type	PhD Student
Discipline	Virtual Reality, Human-Machine Interaction, Avatars, Improvisational Theatre
Research Area	Non-Verbal Communication in Distributed Improvisational Theatre
Degree Required	Master's degree (Master 2) or engineering degree
Funding	Collectivites Territoriales de la Mayenne
Contract Duration	36 months (Full-time)
Language	French and English
Required Documents	CV, cover letter
Employer Contact	[email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

About the Project

The PhD project investigates non‑verbal communication in distributed improvisational theatre using immersive virtual, mixed or augmented reality. It aims to understand how gestures, facial expressions and body language are conveyed through avatars and to identify factors influencing the theatrical improvisation experience. The student will design experimental protocols, develop a collaborative XR platform if needed, conduct remote improvisation experiments with actors and referees, analyse data statistically and disseminate findings through publications and conferences.

Key Responsibilities

• Bibliographic research and state‑of‑the‑art on VR, avatars and non‑verbal communication
• Development of experimental protocols
• Development of collaborative virtual reality applications
• Conducting experimental campaigns with actors
• Statistical analyses of experimental data
• Writing and presenting research at international conferences and journals

Required Skills

• Knowledge of real‑time 3D engine development (C#, Unity, Unreal)
• Good academic English level for reading and publishing
• VR development (interfacing, interactions, capture) and 3D content production
• Appreciation for experimental scientific research in HCI
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team
• Collaboration with artists, computer scientists and engineers
• French and good English spoken

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a Master 2 or engineering degree who are motivated to conduct experimental research at the intersection of computer science, art and human sciences should apply. The ideal candidate is fluent in French and English, has strong academic English for publishing, and possesses knowledge of real‑time 3D engines (C#, Unity, Unreal), VR development and 3D content production. They should be comfortable working in multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with artists and engineers, and have an appreciation for experimental HCI research.

Benefits

• Stimulating, socially engaged work environment at Arts et Metiers
• Work‑life balance with up to 50 days leave in the first year
• Mutual participation up to 15 €/month
• Public transport costs covered 75 % (capped at 104.04 €)
• Sustainable mobility package (under condition)
• Access to high‑level technical hardware and software
• Occasional travel to Paris and Grenoble
• 35‑hour weekly annualized schedule

About the Employer

The Ecole Nationale Superieure d'Arts et Metiers (ENSAM) is a prestigious public engineering school under the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research. It operates across eight campuses and three institutes in France, promotes equality, diversity and inclusion, and states that all positions are open to persons with disabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the contract duration?

The contract lasts 36 months full‑time.

Is telework allowed?

No, telework is not permitted.

Is teaching part of the role?

Yes, teaching duties are required.