Principal Research Scientist - HCII - School of Computer Science

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that challenges the curious and hardworking to deliver work that matters. Our extraordinary institution has distinctive areas of excellence and a culture marked by ambition and a deep, practical engagement with challenges facing society. We continue to produce dedicated alumni and draw faculty and staff eager to be a part of the university’s creative, dedicated and close-knit community. We place emphasis on practical problem solving, interdisciplinary learning, a transformative spirit, and collaboration.

The Human-Computer Interaction Institute (HCII) is a living laboratory where we investigate the relationship between computer technology, human activity, and society. Founded in 1993, the HCII is a place where we work to understand and create technology that harmonizes with and improves human capabilities, goals, and social environments through interdisciplinary research and education in design, computer science, and behavioral and social sciences.

We are looking for a Principal Research Scientist with expertise in computer science and natural language processing to help lead a project on crafting, implementing, testing, and commercializing a generative AI-based training environment to help non-clinical trainees learn to provide effective social support

• Translating research goals into concrete research plans
• Applying AI and NLP concepts to technologies aimed at improving mental health
• Developing and testing generalizable principles of a social skills, simulation-based training environment
• Help developing high-fidelity prototypes of the training environment, which can be used to empirically test the training environment and be built upon as the basis of robust software for commercial deployment
• Supervising and mentoring junior PhD students and post-doctoral fellows working on the project
• Perform other duties as assigned

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within the School of Computer Science Research Department. Collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

• PhD in computer science and natural language processing
• Strong skills in computer science, natural language processing, and software engineering
• At least 5-years of experience conducting research in academia or industry
• Experience supervising PhD students and/or research staff
• Familiarity with theory and empirical research in interpersonal communication
• A strong track record of high-quality research publications in computational social science and natural language processing
• A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

• Successful background investigation

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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