Research Fellow in Ultrasound and Multi-Sensory Interfaces

The role

An exciting Research Fellow position is available at the Bristol Interaction Group (BIG), University of Bristol, a leader in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and accessibility research. This role is part of a UKRI-funded Future Leaders Fellowship project focused on advancing mid-air haptic technology through multisensory experiences and ethical considerations. The post holder will lead projects designing tactile sensations using transducer arrays in Virtual Reality, integrating haptics with audio, visuals, and smell. The role also involves exploring ethical and societal impacts, contributing technical solutions, definitions, and guidelines to guide future touchless system development. 

What will you be doing?

• Explore and understand the literature on haptics perception and multisensory integration.
• Design and implement new mid-air haptic sensations.
• Design and implement testing interfaces and virtual reality scenarios for in-lab user studies.
• Design, build, and test electronic devices for project prototyping (e.g., smell delivery devices, vibration, sound, etc.).
• Lead and supervise user study testing, including direct observation to gain first-hand exposure to user experiences.
• Lead and supervise workshops with participants.
• Apply AI techniques to data generated to create computational models that help us understand multisensory perception and integration.
• Lead research efforts and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and conferences. 

You should apply if

• PhD (or equivalent) in Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of ultrasound mid-air haptics.
• Experience developing and applying mid-air haptics technology for tactile feedback.
• Experience working with transducer arrays, hand tracking, and signal processing.
• Strong skills in creating and conceptualizing immersive 3D environments, including layouts, models, and user interfaces using the Unity Engine.
• Proficiency in designing, building, and testing electronic prototypes using Arduino, Teensy, or similar microcontrollers.
• Familiarity with rapid prototyping techniques (e.g., 3D printing, laser cutting).
• Solid working knowledge of HCI methodologies, interaction design, UX design, or related disciplines.
• Knowledge of human perception and multisensory integration.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and teamwork skills.
• Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed venues (e.g., CHI, UIST, IEEE, SIGGRAPH).
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C#, Python, and C++.
• Experience with data analysis techniques and AI methods. 

Additional information

For informal queries please contact:

Dr. Patricia Cornelio - patricia.cornelio@bristol.ac.uk

To find out more about what it's like to work in the Faculty of Engineering, and how the Faculty supports people to achieve their potential, please see our staff blog:

https://engineering.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/category/engineering-includes-me/

Contract type: Fixed term until 16/01/2026

Work pattern: Full time

Grade: K

Salary: £50,253 - £58,225 per annum

School/Unit: School of Computer Science

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Wednesday 26th November. 

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