OPEN RESEARCH POSITIONS

Project: Human-Centered Hybrid Intelligence for Software Engineering

Location: University of Victoria, Software Engineering Global Interaction Lab (SEGAL)

Start Date: Sept 1, 2026, though an earlier or later start is also possible

Two open positions: postdoctoral fellow and PhD student see Qualifications and Expectations below.

Who we are: Prof. Daniela Damian is ECS-CAPI Chair in Inclusive Science, Technology and Engineering at the University of Victoria, and Directs research and innovation in the INSPIRE: STEM for Social Impact program. University of Victoria is on the beautiful Vancouver Island, offering excellent professional development opportunities through collaboration with a thriving software industry, alongside an exceptional outdoor lifestyle for nature enthusiasts.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: We investigate how to design and evaluate human-AI collaboration in responsible software engineering, advancing a human-centered hybrid intelligence approach that integrates AI capabilities with human expertise and values. Motivated by the rapid adoption of AI in software development—and the growing risks of misalignment with human needs, ethics, and societal impact—the research investigates how to preserve human agency, inclusivity, and accountability in AI-assisted systems. The project will have both scientific and societal impact by producing empirically grounded best practices, theories, and educational resources that support ethical and effective AI integration in software teams. Methodologically, the research adopts an iterative, mixed-methods approach in which best practices and insights are continuously developed and empirically evaluated through real-world, community-engaged software projects within the INSPIRE program, enabling close collaboration with diverse stakeholders and validation in authentic development contexts.

The successful candidates will work in a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment and contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of AI, software engineering, and human-centered design.

PHD STUDENT POSITION:

Expectations

• Conduct high-quality empirical research on human-AI collaboration in software engineering

• Contribute to development and evaluation of human-centered hybrid intelligence approaches for software development.

• Collaborate with industry partners and participate in applied research projects.

• Publish research outcomes in top-tier journals and conferences.

• Mentor MSc, and undergraduate students in research projects.

Required Qualities or Qualifications

MSc in Software Engineering with a focus on human factors

Demonstrated track record of empirical research (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).

Demonstrated experience in human-AI interaction, socio-technical systems, or software teams.

Passion for issues around technology in society and community-based research and innovation

Excellent English communication skills (written and oral).

Desired Qualities or Qualifications

Experience with collaborative software development practices.

Experience publishing in reputable journals and conferences, ideally in areas such as: Software Engineering (e.g., ICSE, FSE, TOSEM, EMSE), Human-Computer Interaction (e.g., CHI, CSCW) or AI / Human-AI Collaboration venues

Familiarity with AI-assisted development tools and workflows.

Background or interest in: responsible AI/ethical technology, participatory design and socio-technical systems, computing education

Some experience in working with industry partners or multidisciplinary research teams.

Demonstrated ability as a fast learner with interest in cross-disciplinary research.

How to Apply

Please submit the following to danielad at Uvic.ca with Subject line: “PhD student application to Human-centered Hybrid Intelligence project”

CV
Cover letter outlining research interests and fit
Any Representative publications (up to 3)
Contact information for references

POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP POSITION:

Expectations

• Conduct high-quality empirical research on human-AI collaboration in software engineering

• Lead development and evaluation of human-centered hybrid intelligence approaches for software development.

• Design and help develop educational materials for responsible and collaborative software engineering.

• Collaborate with industry partners and participate in applied research projects.

• Publish research outcomes in top-tier journals and conferences.

• Contribute to grant writing and research dissemination activities.

• Mentor PhD, MSc, and undergraduate students in research projects.

• Possibility of teaching or guest lecturing in related courses (depending on interest and availability).