PhD student in Cybersickness/Virtual Reality

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Keywords

• Virtual Reality/Unity3D and Interactive Applications with users
• Real-time signal processing of time series (IMU, EEG, EMG, EOG)
• Running user studies through controlled experiments
• User-Interface Adaptation

This position is not for

• processing offline data only or pure machine learning method implementation using datasets
• Research on patients (SCI, stroke patients), rehabilitation

Summary

The Sensing, Interaction & Perception Lab is looking for a PhD student in Virtual Reality/Cybersickness at ETH Zurich. We will design and study VR systems that analyze user activity using EEG, EMG, and body-worn IMUs to improve the perception of virtual environments. The objective is to improve user immersion by increasing levels of embodiment and reducing or preventing cybersickness through real-time adaptation of virtual content to mental states.

Project background

A major challenge of current VR systems is “cyber sickness”, a phenomenon that occurs in over 60% of users. The phenomenon refers to the set of deleterious symptoms that can occur after more or less prolonged use of virtual reality systems. Less severe, depending on personal characteristics, users can suffer from breaks in presence and immersion due to anomalies in rendering and interaction, which can lead to a bad feeling of embodiment in their virtual avatars. All these cases severely affect the user experience to the detriment of pleasant interactions and thus the success of immersive computing. Therefore, research on these phenomena is required to tailor interaction to users’ physiological reactions and adapt immersive environments in real time.

Job description

Goals

• identify, characterize, and detect neurophysiological and behavioral markers associated with cybersickness
• verify these markers in participant experiments in controlled studies
• develop real-time adaptations for immersive environments in VR in response to symptom development

The work will comprise methodological and practical aspects. We will evaluate our systems end-to-end in empirical settings with end users.

Your profile

ETH requirements:

• written and spoken fluency in English
• an excellent master’s degree (M.Sc., M.Eng. or equivalent) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related field

requirements for the position:

• experience in signal processing (e.g., ECG, EEG, EMG, EOG)
• experience with VR or AR, Unity/C# (or comparable 3D programming)
• experience conducting user evaluations or controlled experiments
• strong interpersonal and communication skills

Prior experience in analyzing collected EEG data is highly appreciated.

Your workplace

We offer

We offer an exciting environment and team to study in and work with. Beyond the lab, ETH Zürich has several internationally recognized research groups dedicated to signal processing, neurophysiological computing, machine learning, and physiological computing. We also collaborate with several other institutions and companies in Switzerland and abroad.

> Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

Please submit your complete application through the online application portal:

• a short motivation letter (≤ 1 page)
• curriculum vitae (PDF)
• university transcripts (bachelor’s and master’s)
• short overview of your experiences in signal processing (IMU, EEG, EMG, EOG, ECG, fNIRS, …)
• short overview of your experiences with AR/VR
• contact details of 2 academic referees
• a link to your Github profile and/or your portfolio/website

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis. The position is available for as long as this job ad is up and the job ad will be deactivated when the position has been filled. We are looking to fill the position as soon as possible with a start date in 2023. Please do not send application documents via email.

Apply online now

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

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