Research Associate for "Human-AI Teaming Therapeutic Companion for Torture Survivors with PTSD" Project

About the Role

You will participate in an academic research project aimed at developing a generative AI therapeutic companion designed to offer continuous support for torture survivors experiencing PTSD between therapy sessions. This innovative program, co-created with survivors, intends to address crucial gaps in mental health care while emphasizing the importance of human therapeutic interactions.

Your role involves ensuring that the project’s ethical, epistemological, and methodological principles adhere to the highest standards of both AI and research ethics. This includes providing critical ethical insights regarding trust, transparency, responsibility, and trustworthiness throughout all phases of Human-AI interaction within the project context.

Additionally, you will engage in interdisciplinary collaboration spanning philosophy, psychology, and computer science, focusing on the sensitive and culturally diverse needs of vulnerable users. The position includes multiple work trips to project partners in London for workshops and meetings, along with a one-month research stay in London for collaborative work, stakeholder engagement, and needs assessments.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate holds a university degree, preferably a Master’s in philosophy, with substantial expertise in AI ethics and research ethics. Prior experience in interdisciplinary research collaborating with computer science, neuroscience, and psychotherapy experts is essential. The candidate must demonstrate a comprehensive grasp of ethical and epistemological issues related to AI systems in sensitive fields like mental health.

Strong analytical abilities and excellent communication skills in both German and English are required. Candidates should be capable of independent and teamwork roles across disciplinary lines, exhibiting strong organizational and interpersonal capabilities. A commitment to understanding and engaging with trauma survivors’ needs is vital.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation aligned with wage agreements
• Access to continuing education programs
• Participation in university pension schemes
• Employment in an attractive location with flexible work hours
• Opportunities to achieve work-life balance
• Health and wellness support including EGYM Wellpass
• Availability of educational leave
• 30 days of annual vacation

Additional Information

Universität Hamburg ranks among Germany’s leading research and educational institutions, committed to nurturing responsible global citizens equipped to face worldwide challenges. The university promotes innovation and cooperation for a sustainable future in the digital era, collaborating with academic and non-academic partners worldwide.

Diversity and equal opportunity are central to the university’s values; applications from all backgrounds including gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or age are encouraged. Female candidates and people with disabilities will receive preferential consideration where qualifications are equal.

Note: A security background check pursuant to Section 34a of the Hamburg security clearance act will be conducted for the selected candidate.