PhD in Critical Computing

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years. A doctoral studentship is available in the forthcoming Aspirational Computing Lab (February 2026) in the Department of Computer Science and Technology (CST) at the University of Cambridge. The goal of this PhD programme is to launch one "deceptive by design" project that combines the perspectives of human-computer interaction (HCI) and critical computing. High-level topics include: social identity cues in the design of LLM-based chatbots or social robots trust and reliance on conversational agents designed to be charming and disarming so-called "dark patterns" and manipulative tactics in the user interfaces of a range of technologies voice and vocal cues that subtly change behaviour Other critical computing topics that may be difficult to research in certain nations at this time-including all matters of diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI), accessibility and inclusive design, feminism and intersectionality, trans and gender diversity studies, and misinformation and information deception-will also be considered. In the first half year, the candidate will work closely with Dr. Seaborn and senior researchers to train and gain experience on the research topic and relevant methods. By the second half, the candidate will take on a leading role and begin carrying out the research comprising their doctoral dissertation. The candidate is expected to join other projects within and outside of the lab and department and participate in research communication and outreach, as well as other supporting roles. Notably, the candidate will be trained in small group teaching and invited to take on undergraduate supervisions. Candidates must be self-motivated, collaboration-oriented, and open to interdisciplinary work and team contexts.