PhD position in “Persuasive Gaming" Eindhoven University of Technology

The Department of Industrial Design of the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) seeks candidates for a fully funded

PhD position in “Persuasive Gaming"

Vac.nr.: V51.1768

The project

The PhD research will be carried out as part of a National project called Persuasive Gaming; From theory-based design to validation and back, a collaboration between the University of Utrecht, the Erasmus University Rotterdam and the University of Technology, Eindhoven.

The research in this project is concerned with a) the characteristics, b) design principles, and c) effectiveness of persuasive gaming. We study gaming practices that combine the dissemination of information with attempts to engage players in particular behaviors and attitudes. A unique feature of the project is the collaboration with partners in the Dutch game industry enabling us to immediately relate and apply our knowledge drawn from Game Studies, Media Studies, validation research and research on Game & Play Design to practical demands of the industry. Theoretically, we develop the innovative approach of a constant and intense interaction between what is drawn from theory with the actual design of game experiences. The subsequent merger between design and validation research provides a crucial testing ground to assess and validate the value of the knowledge we aim to produce. The process of persuasion is approached from a humanities perspective focusing on the interplay of different persuasive dimensions, including storytelling and playful interaction. The cases extend beyond traditional videogames incorporating also transmedia storytelling platforms and ambient games and intelligent open-ended play environments, creating play experiences closely integrated in the context of e.g. city life, therapy or education. The ultimate goal is the construction of a dynamic model for persuasive game development and implementation that is accessible for the industry as well as the research community. We are confident that this close collaboration between the industry and the academic world will contribute to improving the international competitive position of the Dutch game industry.

The PhD candidate will be expected contribute primarily to area (b) above, and to contribute to the whole project as part of a cross disciplinary and multi-site team.

About Industrial Design at TU/e

The Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e, www.tue.nl) is one of Europe's leading research universities. The Eindhoven area, in the southern part of the Netherlands, is one of Europe's top 'innovation ecosystems', with many high-tech companies and institutes. TU/e works closely with many of these companies and institutes, and research at TU/e is characterized by a combination of academic excellence and industrial relevance. 

The Department of Industrial Design (ID) of the TU/e, founded in 2001, is a rapidly growing and dynamic department with over 600 students, both Bachelor and Master, and around 80 research staff members and about 60 lecturers and supportive staff. ID focuses on intelligent products, systems, and related services in a societal context.  

Requirements

Candidates for this position should have a Master’s degree in an area related to Interaction and User Experience Design, with excellent grades (First Class Honours or equivalent). They should be pro-active and have a ‘hands-on’ attitude and a strong affinity with games and/or playful interaction as well as with creating experiential prototypes. Skills in prototyping with software and electronics (e.g. Arduino and MaxMSP) and physical modelling skills are essential. Furthermore, candidates should have demonstrated ability to think out of the box, and the interest and motivation to conduct empirical evaluations of design concepts. Good writing skills, the ability to work in a team, and, a strong sense for aesthetics are highly valued.

Appointment and Salary

The appointment is for 4 years, starting by September 1, 2013 (starting date is negotiable, but an early start is preferred). The hired researcher will receive a competitive salary as well as excellent employment conditions (including excellent sport facilities and child care). The research in this project must be concluded with writing a PhD thesis. A salary is offered starting at EUR 2,062 per month (gross) in the first year and increasing up to EUR 2,638 per month (gross) in the last (4^th) year. Moreover 8% bonus share (holiday supplement) and 8.3% bonus share (end-of-the-year allowance) are provided annually.

Further Information

Further information about the project, if necessary, can be obtained from:

• Prof. dr. Ben Schouten BA, TU/e: b.a.m.schouten@tue.nl

For information about the labour conditions you may contact:

• Ms. Gaby Jansen, personnel department Dept. of Industrial Design, phone: +31 (0)40 247 5883, e-mail HR-IndustrialDesign@tue.nl ,
• Ms. Karlijn Le Comte - de Vries, HR-IndustrialDesign@tue.nl, personnel department Dept. of Industrial Design, phone: +31 (0)40 247 5336, 

Deadline for applications

Please, send u your application (CV, motivation letter and portfolio with relevant design work) by using the “apply now button” on top of this vacancy before July 15, 2013 and include vacancy code V51.1768.