Postdoc Position in Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence – HCC at Aalborg University – Denmark

Summary

Aalborg University's Department of Computer Science is inviting applications for a full-time, two-year Postdoc position in Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence, starting January 1, 2027. Working with Professor Niels van Berkel, the successful candidate will conduct research on the DFF-funded project "Safeguarding Users' Cognitive Autonomy in Human-AI Interaction." The role involves developing methods to detect changes in cognitive load and designing digital interventions to support independent thinking in human-AI interaction. Applicants must hold or be close to completing a PhD in Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, Applied AI, Cognitive Psychology, or a related field. Applications must be submitted through the university's recruitment portal by November 13, 2026. Terms and salary follow Danish collective agreements.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Computer Science
Position Type	Postdoc
Discipline	Computer Science / Human-Computer Interaction
Research Area	Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence
Degree Required	PhD degree in human-computer interaction, computer science, applied artificial intelligence, cognitive psychology, or a related field
Salary	In accordance with the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state (AC collective agreement)
Funding	Funded by a DFF research project ("Safeguarding Users' Cognitive Autonomy in Human-AI Interaction")
Contract Duration	Two years
Deadline	2026-11-13
Required Documents	Application letter, Project description, Complete list of publications, Up to 5 publications, List of reference contacts, Curriculum Vitae (CV), Diplomas
Employer Address	Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7K, 9220 Aalborg East, Denmark
Employer Contact	Niels van Berkel ([email protected])

About the Project

The project "Safeguarding Users' Cognitive Autonomy in Human-AI Interaction" addresses how growing reliance on AI technology can affect independent human thinking. It aims to develop methods to detect changes in users' cognitive load and create digital interventions that support cognitive autonomy when interacting with AI, linking technical solutions with cognitive theory.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop methods to detect changes in users' cognitive load
• Design digital interventions that support cognitive autonomy in human-AI interaction
• Connect the project's technical work with its grounding in cognitive theory
• Disseminate scientific findings at leading Human-Computer Interaction venues

Required Skills

• PhD-level qualifications in Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, Applied AI, Cognitive Psychology, or a related field
• Strong collaboration skills
• Ability to acquire new skills and technologies
• Outstanding spoken and written communication skills

Who Should Apply

Candidates who hold or will soon complete a PhD in Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, Applied Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Psychology, or a related field, and who possess strong collaboration, technical, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Employment governed by the Danish AC collective agreement

About the Employer

Aalborg University is an international university in Denmark with over 3,700 employees, featuring campuses in Aalborg, Esbjerg, and Copenhagen, and focusing on real-world-oriented education and collaborative research.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline for this position?

The application deadline is November 13, 2026.

What degree is required to apply?

Applicants must hold, or soon obtain, a PhD in human-computer interaction, computer science, applied artificial intelligence, cognitive psychology, or a related field.

How long is the contract duration?

The post is a two-year role.

Who is the principal investigator for the project?

The principal investigator is Professor Niels van Berkel.

What documents are required for the application?

Applicants must submit an application letter, a project description, a complete list of publications (with optional attachment of up to 5 publications), reference contact details, a CV, and diplomas.

What is the expected start date for this postdoc position?

The expected start date is January 1, 2027.