Contact: Vladimir Tomberg (vladimir.tomberg@tlu.ee)

Position: Junior Research Fellow

Topic: „Computational Interaction“

The doctoral position focuses on Computational Interaction and its application in Digital Behaviour Change Interventions (DBCIs) – technology-driven systems designed to support sustainable positive changes in human behaviour. The research combines human–computer interaction, data science, and behavioural science, focusing on the design of adaptive and personalised digital interventions.

The project may explore how dynamic user data, predictive analytics, and adaptive algorithms can be used to develop personalised and context-aware solutions that respond to users over time. Particular attention is given to creating evidence-based and scalable behaviour-change solutions.

This position is part of the HCI for Health research group and contributes to strengthening data-driven approaches in Human–Computer Interaction. The work aligns with Tallinn University’s strategic focus on high-quality research and digital innovation addressing societal challenges.

We are seeking a candidate with a background in a relevant field (e.g. HCI, data science, computer science, or related disciplines), an interest in behaviour change technologies, and the ability to work across disciplines. Experience with data analysis, machine learning, or interactive systems design is advantageous.

Contact: Mati Mõttus (mati.mottus@tlu.ee)

Position: Junior Research Fellow

Topic: Psycho-Physiological Indicators of Creative Barriers

The doctoral position focuses on identifying and analysing psycho-physiological indicators of creative barriers, often described as “creative blocks.” The research combines human–computer interaction, cognitive psychology, and physiological computing to better understand how complex mental states—such as stress, fatigue, and cognitive load–relate to creativity and problem-solving.

The project may explore how physiological signals, including skin conductance, pupil dilation, and facial expressions, can be used to detect and differentiate mental states over time. A particular emphasis is placed on identifying patterns that distinguish creative barriers from other conditions, such as fatigue or stress, and on understanding how these states vary between individuals. The research aims to develop a data-driven approach to modelling creativity-related processes and their temporal dynamics.

This position is part of the Human Factors research group within the Human-Computer Interaction research direction and contributes to advancing research in human-centred and data-informed interaction. The work supports the development of the research group and aligns with Tallinn University’s focus on digital and media culture, education innovation, and interdisciplinary research.

We are seeking a candidate with a background in a relevant field (e.g. HCI, cognitive science, psychology, neuroscience, or related disciplines), an interest in human factors and creativity research, and the ability to work across disciplines. Experience with physiological data collection or analysis, experimental research methods, or signal processing is advantageous.

Contact Mart Laanpere (mart.laanpere@tlu.ee)

Position: Junior Research Fellow

Topic: Higher Education Mathematics Didactics

The doctoral position focuses on the development and research of higher education mathematics didactics, with an emphasis on digital learning materials and innovative teaching methodologies. The research addresses challenges related to students’ insufficient preparation in higher mathematics, which affects study success and increases dropout risk.

The project is closely linked to a university-wide development initiative that creates flexible and learner-centred digital courses in areas such as calculus, algebra, discrete mathematics, and analytical geometry. It may explore how personalised learning paths, digital tools, and formative assessment solutions support students’ learning experience, study skills, and academic outcomes.

A particular focus is on the integration of digital learning environments, learning analytics, and artificial intelligence, including automated feedback systems and AI-supported learning processes. The research also examines how self-directed learning and student motivation can be supported through digitally enhanced teaching approaches.

This position contributes to strengthening research in higher education didactics and supports the development of the institute’s competence in mathematics and informatics education. The work aligns with Tallinn University’s strategic focus on digital innovation and evidence-based education.

We are seeking a candidate with a background in mathematics education, educational technology, or a related field, and an interest in digital learning and teaching innovation. Experience with e-learning environments, learning analytics, or educational research methods is advantageous.

Contact Mart Laanpere (mart.laanpere@tlu.ee)

Position: Junior Research Fellow

Topic: Informatics Didactics

The doctoral position focuses on the development and research of informatics didactics, with an emphasis on the preparation of informatics teachers in higher education. The research addresses ongoing changes in national curricula and international frameworks, which increasingly highlight algorithmic thinking, programming, data literacy, and understanding of artificial intelligence.

The project may explore how teacher education programmes can be redesigned to reflect these developments, including the structure and content of the curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment practices. A particular focus is on developing and validating evidence-based digital learning materials, such as an online textbook and e-courses, to support both degree studies and continuing education.

This position is part of the institute’s efforts to strengthen its role as a leading centre for informatics education and teacher training. The work contributes to advancing research at the intersection of education, technology, and subject didactics, and aligns with Tallinn University’s strategic focus on digital innovation and evidence-based education.

We are seeking a candidate with a background in informatics, computer science education, educational technology, or a related field, and an interest in teacher education and curriculum development. Experience with teaching, digital learning environments, or educational research methods is advantageous.

Contact Danial Hooshyar (danial.hooshyar@tlu.ee).

Position: Junior Research Fellow

Topic: Operationalizing responsible AI in K-12 education

The rapid integration of AI systems (e.g., LLM-based chatbots and adaptive learning technologies) into K-12 education has progressed faster than the frameworks and practices needed to ensure their responsible development and use. While principles such as transparency, accountability, fairness, and human-centred design are widely discussed, they remain largely conceptual and insufficiently translated into actionable guidance for schools. As a result, stakeholders – students, teachers, school leaders, parents, and policymakers – often lack the means to determine whether AI systems were developed responsibly, what ethical assumptions they embed, and how they should be used responsibly in practice.

This PhD project aims to define and operationalize responsible AI in K-12 education through a theoretically grounded and stakeholder-informed framework. The research will synthesize existing studies, integrate cross-national stakeholder perspectives, and translate these insights into a practical evaluation and guidance tool. The project seeks to bridge the gap between responsible AI principles and real-world practice by enabling stakeholders to assess, monitor, and guide AI use in schools, thereby fostering trust, equity, pedagogical alignment, and student well-being.

Contact: Abiodun Afolayan Ogunyemi (abnogn@tlu.ee)

Position: Doctoral Student

Topic: AI-Mediated Tacit Knowledge Transfer and Human Agency

The doctoral project focuses on how artificial intelligence (AI) mediates knowledge processes in knowledge-intensive work environments. As AI systems increasingly support decision-making, information retrieval, and task execution, the research examines how knowledge – particularly tacit knowledge – is transferred from AI systems to human users and how this affects human agency.

The project may explore how AI systems generate, structure, and communicate knowledge through recommendations, classifications, and predictive outputs in real-world organisational contexts. A particular focus is on developing conceptual and empirical models of AI-mediated tacit knowledge transfer and understanding how these processes influence learning, decision-making, and the development of expertise.

This position contributes to the Applied Informatics research direction and advances human-centred approaches to AI. The work aligns with Tallinn University’s strategic focus on digital innovation, lifelong learning, and responsible AI, supporting the development of ethical frameworks and digital competencies in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

We are seeking a candidate with a background in informatics, data science, information systems, or a related field, and an interest in AI, human-AI interaction, and knowledge processes. An interdisciplinary mindset and familiarity with research methods are important.

Contact David Lamas (david.lamas@tlu.ee)

Position: Doctoral Student

Topic: Human-Centered Computing

The doctoral project focuses on the role of human-centred computing in supporting context-sensitive digital transformation, particularly in emerging countries. The research examines how digital systems, platforms, and services can be designed to align with local practices, institutional conditions, and user needs, rather than replicating solutions developed in different socio-technical contexts.

The project may explore how participatory design, human-computer interaction, and socio-technical systems approaches can be combined to develop frameworks for inclusive and sustainable digital transformation. A particular focus is on higher education and public sector contexts, where digital technologies can enhance capacity, improve access, and support long-term institutional development.

This position contributes to the School of Digital Technologies’ research in human-computer interaction and digital transformation, while strengthening its international and societal impact. The work aligns with Tallinn University’s strategic focus areas, including Digital and Media Culture, Society and Open Governance, and Educational Innovation.

We are seeking a candidate with a background in human–computer interaction, informatics, information systems, or a related field, and an interest in digital transformation in diverse socio-technical contexts. Experience with qualitative research methods, participatory approaches, or interdisciplinary research is advantageous.