PhD Position - Exploring Alternative Evolutions of Digital Twins

Position Overview

We are seeking a motivated PhD candidate to join the PC5 team working on Human-Digital Twin Interactions. This position focuses on developing innovative immersive interfaces and interaction paradigms for digital twin systems.

Research Focus

The PhD research will contribute to advancing the state-of-the-art in:

• Immersive Visualization: Developing VR/AR interfaces for complex digital twin data
• Interaction Design: Creating intuitive interaction methods for 3D digital twin environments
• Collaborative Systems: Enabling multi-user collaborative interaction with digital twins
• Usability Assessment: Evaluating and optimizing user experience in digital twin interfaces

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge research in human-computer interaction for digital twins
• Develop prototypes and experimental systems for user studies
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across the EDT program
• Publish research findings in top-tier conferences and journals
• Participate in project meetings, workshops, and dissemination activities
• Contribute to the development of the Artemis platform

Research Environment

The position is based at IMT Atlantique in Brest, within the INUIT team at Lab-STICC. You will work under the supervision of Prof. Thierry Duval and collaborate with researchers across the EDT consortium. You will be co-supervised by Professor David Baudry from CESI LINEACT Rouen.

Facilities and Resources

• State-of-the-art VR/AR equipment and immersive environments
• High-performance computing resources
• Access to industrial partners and real-world use cases
• International collaboration opportunities

Qualifications

Required

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, or related field
• Strong background in 3D graphics, visualization, or VR/AR technologies
• Proficiency in programming languages (C++, JavaScript, Python)
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and French
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

Preferred

• Experience with game engines (Unity, Unreal Engine) or 3D frameworks
• Knowledge of user experience design and evaluation methods
• Familiarity with web technologies and real-time systems
• Previous research experience in HCI or related fields

Application Process

Please submit your application including:

1. Cover Letter: Explaining your motivation and research interests
2. Curriculum Vitae: Including academic background and relevant experience
3. Academic Transcripts: Master’s degree and relevant coursework
4. Research Statement: Brief description of your research interests and goals (1-2 pages)
5. References: Contact information for two academic or professional references

Funding and Benefits

• Duration: 3 years (renewable based on progress)
• Salary: Competitive PhD stipend according to French standards
• Benefits: Health insurance, social security, professional development budget
• Travel: Support for conference attendance and research collaborations

Application Deadline

June 30, 2024

Early applications are encouraged as the position may be filled before the deadline.

Contact Information

Supervisor: Prof. Thierry Duval
Email: thierry.duval@imt-atlantique.fr
Phone: +33 2 29 00 14 67

Administrative Contact: HR Department
Email:

For technical questions about the research, please contact Prof. Duval directly. For administrative questions, contact the HR department.

About IMT Atlantique

IMT Atlantique is a leading French engineering school and research institution, part of the Institut Mines-Télécom. The school is recognized for its excellence in digital technologies, energy, and environment, with strong industry partnerships and international collaborations.

About the EDT Program

The Engineering Digital Twins (EDT) program is a major French research initiative bringing together leading institutions to advance the science and engineering of digital twin technology. The program aims to create a national community with international leadership in digital twin engineering.