Post Doctoral Research Fellowship in the Intelligent Computer Tutoring Group

Applications are invited for a 3-year, fixed-term Post Doctoral Research Fellowship in the Intelligent Computer Tutoring Group within the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering. The position is a part of the new project titled Adaptive computer-based cognitive training for post-stroke rehabilitation, funded by the prestigious Marsden Fund of the Royal Society of New Zealand. The Fellow will be expected to contribute to the project, and enhance the research of the Department. A Ph.D. degree in Computer Science is required, as well as experience in Artificial Intelligence in Education and/or Cognitive Psychology. The candidate should have prior experience and future goals of publishing research.

The successful applicant must be able to take up the position by 1 February 2011, or as soon as possible thereafter.

The overview of the project follows:

The project will develop a new ontological modelling methodology that will enable computer-based training systems adapt to users' specific cognitive functioning abilities. Current intelligent systems do not take the user’s cognitive functioning into account; they assume all users have the same level of cognitive functioning, with no restrictions on memory, attention, learning capability, or speed of processing. This new modelling method will be tested in the context of adaptive cognitive training for stroke patients. Current assistive technologies provide simple reminders to stroke patients to compensate for memory loss, but do not provide adaptive training.

The proposed intelligent and adaptive training system will use the created methodology to monitor each patient's cognitive deficit and initiate adaptive strategies (e.g. provide specific exercises or tailored advice). Such adaptive training is extremely important to a country with an ageing population such as New Zealand, as it decreases substantial costs of specialized human treatment and patient care. This project will provide a framework for neuropsychological researchers to conduct similar rehabilitative research into training strategies with other brain injuries (even degenerative conditions like Parkinson’s disease). It also advances the field of knowledge engineering and paves the way for next-generation, human-centred intelligent systems.

The Department of Computer Science is a strong and forward-looking department, dedicated to excellence in research and teaching. It has research strengths across a broad range of areas in pure and applied Computer Science.

Located on a picturesque campus, the University offers an extensive range of services and facilities including library and art collections, child-care centres, health centre, recreation centre, pharmacy, book shop and cafs. You’ll have opportunities to work alongside members of a world class, diverse academic community and enrich your own professional and personal development.

The University of Canterbury is an EEO employer and actively seeks to meet its obligation under the Treaty of Waitangi.

Job sharing or other innovative employment practices may be considered.