PhD Internship Opportunity: Human-Computer Interaction Researcher

Key Skills

C Programming, C++, Cloud computing, Data science techniques, Java Programming, Machine learning techniques, MATLAB Programming, Python Programming, PyTorch, R Programming, Scala Programming, SQL, TensorFlow

Job Description

Microsoft works with the world’s best researchers, moving with the current of technology as it rapidly evolves. Together we share the motivation to seek innovative solutions to the world’s toughest challenges and improve the lives of people everywhere.?The MARI, Nairobi, Kenya, is looking for a PhD intern for a 6-month Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) research project. The internship will be full time and located in Nairobi, Kenya.

The MARI is a first of its kind research institute, closely combining foundational research, with product innovation, engineering, and design to create the technologies of the future. Our mission is to understand, build and deploy innovative cloud and AI technologies which not only address core opportunities in Africa and contribute to solving local challenges at scale, but which contribute to creating a more productive future of work, health, and society globally.
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Microsoft provides a nurturing environment to support passionate researchers and engineers in technology innovation. We are seeking candidates excelling in deep thinking research aspects and fast-paced entrepreneurial execution. Candidates should have a strong ability to work with researchers and product team colleagues at Microsoft to push forward research agendas and being a team player in a collaborative and supportive environment.?

We are seeking candidates with stellar research skills and a technical background. Applicants should demonstrate depth of knowledge in?planning, conducting, and publishing a research study.?

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute a qualitative HCI research study (preferably an ethnography and contextual inquiry) with small and medium-sized businesses in Kenya.
• Conduct remote and in-person usability testing of prototype and document the findings
• Communicate research and development results to internal and external audiences in oral and written form, including peer-reviewed publications and patents
• Collaborate with research, product groups and other stakeholders
• Support the MARI team in related research and HCI work

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a PhD degree in Computer Science/Engineering (with a focus on HCI) or related field
• Ability to design and execute on a research agenda
• Experience in qualitative HCI research and HCI methodologies including ethnography, contextual inquiry, usability testing, wizard of Oz etc.
• Experience contributing to research communities and/or efforts, including publishing papers at top tier conferences
• Excellent critical thinking and communication skills.???

Desirable?qualifications:?

• Relevant work experience, including industry experience or as a Researcher in a lab.?
• Track record of publications in top HCI venues

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.

Benefits/perks listed below may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Microsoft and the country where you work.

Benefits and Perks

• Industry leading healthcare
• Giving programs
• Opportunities to network and connect
• Discounts on products and services