How to Apply
To be considered for this position, applicants should submit their materials to Interfolio https://apply.interfolio.com/179185
- Cover letter (1-2 pages) which includes a summary of your research interests/experience, personal research goals, career objectives, and why you are interested in this position at UMSI.
- Curriculum vita
- Name, affiliation, and email address of three (3) references, at least one of whom should be in an academic position and familiar with your research. Only finalists? references will be asked to provide letters, but reference information is required for all applicants.
- Two (2) sample publications, of which you are the first author or the lead author, and demonstrate topical expertise to the position.
The deadline for applications is March 1, 2026. The desired start date for this position is May or June 2026. The start date is contingent on degree conferral.
This is a one-year non-renewable appointment. All general inquiries and questions about the position can be sent to [email protected].
Job Summary
The University of Michigan School of Information seeks to hire a full time postdoctoral research fellow. This scholar will work closely with Dr. Robin Brewer at the University of Michigan School of Information and will be funded by an NSF CAREER award. The selected candidate will first translate research outcomes into design requirements for a scalable system that helps older adults mitigate information uncertainty using artificial intelligence (AI). Next, the postdoc will work with the PI and developers to implement the system and ensure progress on system building. If time permits, the postdoc will evaluate the system with older adults.
The ideal candidate will have experience with system development or project management with developers. Additionally, the candidate should have strong qualitative research skills and be familiar with quantitative methods. Research responsibilities will include designing a study, collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, and writing academic publications.
The fellow will have opportunities to engage with other research groups, centers, and institutions such as other postdocs in the School of Information, AHA, and ESC.
Responsibilities*
- Translate a body of design suggestions to design requirements and a workflow for a scalable system for conversational information seeking (by text chat and voice)
- Meet regularly with developers and the project PI to ensure progress is being made on system development
- Thoroughly test the final system
- If time, evaluate the system with older adults in a field study
Required Qualifications*
- A PhD in Information, Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, or a related field; conferred by the start date
Desired Qualifications*
- Experience translating research outcomes into design recommendations for a scalable system
- Experience communicating with developers
- Strong project management skills
- Ability to conduct evaluative research using a mixed methods approach
- Experience conducting interviews or focus groups with older adults or other marginalized populations
Work Schedule
40 hours per week; some flexibility in when those work hours occur as long as good communication and close coordination practices are in place.
Work Locations
The position is a 12-month appointment located in Ann Arbor, MI. A shared office in Leinweber Computer Science and Information Building will be arranged. Hybrid work is acceptable for this role, following the UMSI Remote Work Policy and with supervisor approval. This position has the option of working remotely; however, candidates must be able to conduct work in the United States.
Employment outside of the United States or from a U.S. Territory is not allowable. Applicants must be eligible to be employed in the United States; sponsorship to obtain such status is not available at this time.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
Benefits at the University of Michigan:
The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family, and plan for a secure future. For more information about Postdoctoral Research Fellow benefits, please visit the benefits website.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.