Are you passionate about XR, AI, human-centered design, and improving lives through technology?
This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to explore the frontier of digital health by designing and deploying Embodied Virtual Agents (EVAs)—AI-powered digital entities that communicate through both natural language and non-verbal cues. These agents are more than just chatbots; they are empathetic, culturally adaptive, and capable of engaging users in meaningful, human-like interactions.
This interdisciplinary research draws on the combined expertise of academics from the School of Product Design and the School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing, offering a rich environment for innovation at the intersection of technology, design, and human behavior.
Your research will investigate how EVAs can enhance the reach and effectiveness of XR systems—especially for populations often left behind by conventional technologies. This includes older adults, individuals with disabilities, and people with limited digital literacy or education.
This project is ideal for candidates with good programming, XR development, or AI backgrounds, with strong interests in HCI, psychology, and product design, and a passion for creating technologies that make a real-world impact.
You’ll gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools, contribute to high-impact publications, and be part of a vibrant research community committed to social good.
Supervisors
First Supervisor:
Second Supervisor:
Key qualifications and skills
Good programming (C#, Python)
XR Development (Unreal Engine preferred or Unity)
User Research
Does the project come with funding
UC Connect Doctoral Scholarship -Stipend and Tuition fees are covered
How to apply
Applications must be made through the UC Scholarships portal here:
Final date for receiving applications
30 September 2025
Keywords
XR, VR, AR, AI, Embodied Conversation Agents, CHI, HCI, Interaction Design, User Research, Interactive Health, Health Tech
