Doctoral Researchers in the Area of Persuasive Systems Design - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

We are now looking for

Two doctoral researchers in the area of persuasive systems design

to join us in Oulu Advanced Research on Service and Information Systems research unit at the Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering.

OASIS unit is one of the world-leading research centers in the field of persuasive technology, systems, and design. Research at OASIS focuses on humanized information technologies, user behavior, behavior change, and persuasive systems design. OASIS employs personnel of about 20 including two professors. The collaborative network of OASIS includes several major research universities and companies. Faculty of ITEE employs personnel of more than 550 with some 40 professors covering a wide range of ICT expertise.

About the job

• As a doctoral researcher you are expected to conduct rigorous, nationally and internationally recognized scientific research in the fields of information systems science, computer-human interaction and health/medical informatics.
• You will join the Academy of Finland funded research project “PerFeat: Persuasive digital health interventions: Software features as key predictors for successful prevention and treatment of overweight, obesity, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases”.
• Your research topic will be related to digital health interventions, especially investigating which persuasive software features, and how and to what extent, are predictors for successful prevention, and perhaps even treatment, of overweight, obesity, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases. (More information about the topic and our approach can be found from the research unit’s previous publications.)
• Your research duties beyond reviewing relevant literature will include collecting and analyzing quantitative data with the help of conceptual-theoretical frameworks especially the Persuasive Systems Design model and Behavior Change Support Systems framework, authoring scientific peer-reviewed conference and journal publications and participation in applying additional project funding.
• In position 2, either you or your fellow doctoral researcher (we are seeking to hire two doctoral researchers) will also play a key role in developing a mobile application for addiction recovery in which skills for mobile application development (Apple IOS, Android, or similar environments) will be needed.
• The positions include participation in teaching.

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team of about 15-20 people where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, excellent education system, and competitive economy. Oulu is a city known for its stunning natural surroundings, vibrant cultural life, and friendly, easy-going atmosphere. Residents of Oulu enjoy Finland’s high standard of living combined with affordable housing. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

In order to succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you: 

• A master’s degree in Information Systems Science or a related field with a clear connection with information systems/technology, or to have the degree completed latest on April 30, 2023
• Fluency in written and spoken English
• Research interest in understanding user behaviors, behavior change and persuasive systems design
• Skills in quantitative research applying a theoretical basis, such as structural equation modelling
• Software development skills and experience (in position 2)
• Capability for working as part of a multidisciplinary research team (involving especially medical experts) as well as for working independently

We also appreciate

• Previous experience with working on persuasive and/or behavior change support systems
• Finnish language skills (especially in position 2)

Salary

The positions are fixed-term starting as of 1.5.2023 or as soon as possible thereafter lasting till 31.8.2026.

The salary will be based on the levels 2-4 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 2400-2500 € per month (before taxes). A trial period of 6 months is applied to positions.

How to apply

Interested? If yes, please apply by 13.3.2023 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

1. Motivation letter describing prior background, research interests in more general, career plan and motivation to apply for this position
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
3. Certificates/Diplomas
4. Contact information of two persons available for recommendation
5. A brief tentative research plan (maximum of 4 pages), on the topic area of this call, in English, showing and detailing:

• understanding of the Persuasive Systems Design model and the Behavior Change Support Systems framework as well as at least some of the research unit’s previous publications related to these
• explanation how your previous research and education links with this research work
• recognition of the most interesting research questions regarding the project’s topic from the applicant’s own point of view (note: the plan will be used to evaluate your research thinking rather than to be considered as an actual research plan to be carried out in the project)

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Professor Harri Oinas-Kukkonen, Oulu Advanced Research on Software and Information Systems, Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, e-mail: Harri.Oinas-Kukkonen@oulu.fi.