Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Gaming & Human Machine Interface

The University of Lincoln is pleased to invite applications for a two-year Post-Doctoral Researcher focused on Gaming and Human-Machine Interface (HMI) innovation. This exciting role supports a novel project aimed at transforming the use of wargaming in the UK defence community by integrating cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence and Second Order Theory of Mind into interactive game design.

You will spend the first year embedded within Lincoln’s School of Defence and Security Education and the Centre for Defence and Security Artificial Intelligence (CDSAI), before transferring to the University of Sheffield for the second year to continue this ambitious programme of research.

About the project

This research seeks to develop AI tools that help wargamers understand how opponents perceive and interpret their behaviour. By modelling opponent beliefs and adapting in real time, the project aims to provide strategic insight that enhances UK Defence’s pursuit of “Decision Advantage.” This work has significant potential for broader applications across military, civilian, and educational contexts.

About the role

The Post-Doctoral Research Associate will:

Co-design and develop advanced human-machine interfaces in collaboration with end-users and stakeholders.

Investigate human factors affecting adoption and effective use of AI-driven tools.

Contribute to the creation of interactive systems capable of delivering adaptive, real-time feedback.

Work across multidisciplinary teams to integrate technical, cognitive, and user-centred perspectives.

Prepare research outputs for publication, conferences, and stakeholder briefings.

Support engagement activities, onboarding contributors, coordinating exercises, and ensuring compliance with defence protocols.

About you

You will hold a PhD in Human-Machine Interaction, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related discipline, with strong programming experience (e.g., Python, JavaScript, MATLAB) and proven capability in developing interactive visualisations or interfaces. You will demonstrate excellent communication skills, a collaborative working style, and the ability to work independently across institutions and disciplines. Knowledge of human factors, user-centred design, or wargaming methodologies is highly desirable.

The post requires you to obtain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance and ideally the ability to obtain UKSV security clearance.

Closing Date: 06 Jan 2026

Department: Research

Salary: £38,784 per annum Please note, this post is fixed term until 4 January 2028, and full-time at 1 FTE.