Shape the Future of Games Research: Assistant and/or Associate Professor Positions at the SDU Metaverse Lab

The SDU Metaverse Lab is seeking one or more new colleagues to join our team. Our focus is the interface of technology and people, working across domains to create experiences and technologies that enable people to shape and engage with the future. We seek two new colleagues to support the strengths of the lab across all forms of interactive technologies, while unlocking new opportunities to provide societal benefit through cutting-edge technical research. The targeted starting date of the positions is January 2025. The application deadline is 15th October 2024 at 11.59 PM/23.59 (CET/CEST)
The SDU Metaverse Lab is seeking one or more new colleagues to join our team. Our focus is the interface of technology and people, working across domains to create experiences and technologies that enable people to shape and engage with the future. We seek two new colleagues to support the strengths of the lab across all forms of interactive technologies, while unlocking new opportunities to provide societal benefit through cutting-edge technical research. The targeted starting date of the positions is January 2025.

The application deadline is 15th October 2024 at 11.59 PM/23.59 (CET/CEST)

Please see our Position Brochure.

The SDU Metaverse Lab
The Metaverse Lab is a small, interdisciplinary research, academic and impact-generating organization. The Metaverse Lab pursues research focusing on creating experiences and technologies that enable people to shape and engage with the future. In the Metaverse Lab, staff and students work together with companies and organizations on projects across disciplines – from games to health, learning to robotics, data to code – in an environment designed for collaboration and technology transfer.

The overall goal of the SDU Metaverse Lab is to explore and address the challenges and opportunities related to digital technology and virtual environments, and their impact on society, well-being, and economies. Our research is divided into three multidisciplinary themes or streams of critical R&D:

• Digital and Technical Literacy in Society: as our world becomes increasingly digital, a substantial portion of the population lacks the essential skills to effectively engage with technology, impacting their ability to participate in the digital economy, access information, and fully engage in society.
• Digital Pathways to Wellbeing: Globally, the rise in mental health challenges and physical disabilities demands urgent attention. Leveraging digital innovations, such as innovations like virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), adaptive systems, and behavioral analytics, can help address these critical gaps in healthcare provision.
• Virtual environments and economies: The rapid developments across online realities, digital economies, and AI create pivotal challenges in ensuring that future digital realities are supportive, safe spaces for users and creators.

You can read more about the current research strategy of the SDU Metaverse Lab here. Within the research themes outlined, we are involved in a number of research projects together with industry and academic partners; read more about some of our projects here.

Our faculty leads the Game Development and Learning Technologies degree, working with students, visitors, and our many partner companies and organizations. Our students form the crucial front-end engineering link between back-end engineering and the actual users of information systems, with deep technical expertise and design skills who can ensure systems are useful and impactful – and ready for the future. Our alumni have gone on to share their unique skills and competencies across the Creative Industries and beyond.

The degree is comprised of a 3-year BSc plus a joint MSc programme with the Software Engineering section at the same institute. At its heart, the programme is a technical software engineering degree, but with a heavy emphasis on front-end design and thinking. The degree covers a diverse range of situations from VR/AR, AI, web programming, hardware and robotics, learning technologies and not the least, game design and game programming. We place a heavy emphasis on semester projects in teams and integrate these projects directly into our courses. The course is taught primarily in English. Some course can be taught in Danish if the lecturer speaks Danish and there are no native-English speaking students in the class in question.

About the University of Southern Denmark
The Metaverse Lab is part of the Faculty of Engineering and the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Institute at the University of Southern Denmark.

The University of Southern Denmark is one of the youngest universities in Denmark, founded in 1966. The university is founded around the goal of providing the right knowledge and the right time to support society. The university targets major, complex societal problems of a cross-disciplinary nature such as climate, welfare, health and technology, tackling these in collaborations across faculties.

The Faculty of Engineering is driven by the urge to create value for and with society, by curiosity and by the will to attain that which only few could imagine would be possible. Through research, education and collaboration it is the ambition of the faculty to nurture talent, address challenges, create possibilities and promote sustainable development. The faculty is strongly engaged with national and international industry and organisations and covers a range of technical domains defined within 18 research areas.

The Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Instituteis an internationally recognized research institute and the large robotics research center in Europe. With a diverse strong focus on robotics, drone technology, interactive technologies, artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0, software, health, and energy informatics, the institute has maintained a leading position for over two decades. The culture of the institute emphasizes curiosity, ambition, and sustainable development. The institute values collaboration, innovation, and talent nurturing. Research at the Maersk institute often involves partnerships with external companies and institutions, driving solutions for the future. The Institute is the critical driver behind making the host city of Odense the largest robotics hub in Europe with over 125 companies situated in this peaceful rural town in the middle of Denmark.

About the positions
The Metaverse Lab is in a phase of expansion and renewal and seeks to fill one or more positions at the Associate or Assistant Professor level. We are looking for people who can contribute to our core research themes, develop and teach subjects in our undergraduate and graduate courses, and secure funding to further support the lab’s growth.

The successful candidate will be actively engaged with the latest technological and methodological developments in their area of research and demonstrate a well-developed teaching philosophy. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the SDU Metaverse Lab.

The purpose of these positions are to contribute to our mission of creating the technological solutions of the future that support the meeting between people and technology. You will be expected to bring your expertise to our team, helping us meet our future skill requirements and enabling further growth of the group.

The Metaverse Lab has a strong focus on societal benefit and collaboration with external stakeholders such as industry. Our research is characterized by being purpose-led R&D. We strive to have very direct impact, working across the technology level readiness chain.

We provide excellent support for your work, and a highly flexible environment. Our lab and SDU offer numerous opportunities for professional development. You will have the chance to influence the direction of our lab, improve on our teaching degree, and explore your areas of interest. You are expected to take on leadership roles within our lab and lead research projects.

We are a small and agile team and are looking for colleagues who are motivated and not afraid to think outside the box to get results. As a team in growth, these positions provide an excellent opportunity for putting your imprint on the lab and furthering your career. We have immense respect for each other, and we recognize that as a supportive team, everything is easier.

Further information on research in the SDU Metaverse Lab
The SDU Metaverse Lab is interested in strengthening its capabilities in multiple areas, given its cross-disciplinary nature. The below list includes some of the areas that are currently seeing focus in the Metaverse Lab. We are interested in applicants that have some overlap with these areas, or can augment them, but the profile of applicants does not need to fall completely within them.

• Game design: for example, applied game design, game mechanics, player psychology, and narrative design.
• Game development: for example, development processes, assessment of user experience, tools to support game development. Games user research or Games UX.
• Serious games: Design, development and analysis of playful games for health, training, education or other non-entertainment situations (potentially through AR/VR/XR).
• Human computer interaction and human robot interaction: for example, knowledge and practical scientific experience in designing cyber-physical systems such as e.g. robotics for humans (HCI/HRI) or HCI in other hardware contexts (e.g., health, games, education). UX and UI design are notable areas of investigation in the lab.
• Artificial intelligence: for example, familiarity with applying AI (e.g. machine learning, neural networks, etc.) to solve complex problems across the Creative Industries, health technologies, education, training, behavioral analytics, etc.
• Data science: proficiency in data analysis, statistical modelling, ML, and visualization. We utilize data for a wide array of contexts, from ultra-large-scale analysis of user behavior in online environments, AI agent behavior, LLMs, to understanding sensor outputs.
• Emerging and existing technologies for health, wellbeing and training, especially combined with novel interaction technologies such as AR/VR/XR, robotics, or employ data and data visualization.
• Integration of sensors within simulations or hardware.
• Training simulations: Familiarity with virtual environments, serious games, or training simulations. Gamification of training simulations or generally learning experiences.

We encourage all qualified candidates who resonate with our mission and can contribute to our community in unique ways to apply. We look forward to welcoming new colleagues to our team who will help us shape the future of interaction technologies for entertainment and societal benefit.

Key responsibilities
Specific duties may include:
Research and scholarship

• Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals, present at conferences, and participate in academic discussions.
• Undertake excellent research that is aligned with the Metaverse Lab’s research priorities and that produces high-quality outcomes.
• Connect with the professional community and lead and influence your profession and discipline.
• Securing Funding: applying for grants to acquire funding to further accelerate your research and the lab’s development. Pursue opportunities for external research funding, collaborate on and initiate grant applications.

Academic leadership

• Administrative Contributions: participating in faculty and departmental meetings. Contributing to decision-making processes, proposing improvements, and collaborating on program development.
• Networking and Industry Interaction: attending academic events, conferences, and seminars. Networking with other researchers and industry professionals to stay informed about the latest trends and research opportunities. Engage with industry, government and the community to advance research impact.
• Contribute to SDU’s research culture through internal and external collaborations including those with international partners.
• Implement and administer SDU policy within the Metaverse Lab with respect to equitable access to education and workplace health and safety.

Teaching and educational leadership

• Facilitate excellence in the Metaverse Lab’s undergraduate and postgraduate courses through the development and delivery of innovative teaching methods and materials.
• Developing and Delivering Course Material: You are expected to create, refine, and teach course content, curricula, and syllabi. This also includes conducting exams and grading.
• Education Development: contribute to curriculum development, program assessment, and strategic planning.
• Supervision and Guidance: guiding and mentoring Bachelor and Master students as they work on their theses and projects. Also advising students on your courses to help them navigate the course.
• Prepare and deliver physical and virtual lectures and seminars for effective learning outcomes.
• Provide real-world learning and assessment.
• Supervise postgraduate and other students’ research projects.

Key selection criteria
Please note that the key selection criteria are similar across the Assistant and Associate level, but Associate-level candidates will have a few additional points to address (more comprehensive version of the criteria).

Research and Research Leadership
Guiding information: From the point of view of research and partnerships, we are looking for applicants with a strong research trajectory and a documented ability to collaborate across disciplines and with a diverse set of stakeholders. In terms of specific domains of inquiry, there is substantial flexibility as the SDU Metaverse Lab works across fields, but applicants should have an overall focus on interaction and technology.

1. Doctoral qualification in a discipline relevant to the research and teaching needs of the SDU Metaverse Lab.
2. High impact and high-quality research and research leadership
Demonstrated research distinction at the national level with demonstrated research impact.

Additionally, internationally recognised research track record (associate professor).

3. Proven ability to sustain and grow your research through external funding
Demonstrated capacity in attracting and managing external research income through competitive grants and/or industry collaboration.

Additionally, sustain and grow research groups and centres through the attraction of external funding and collaborations (associate professor).

4. Demonstrated success in establishing and maintaining collaborations.
Proven ability to attract and maintain industry partnerships and funding for impact-driven research. Proven ability to engage with relevant networks across academia, industry and 3rd sector (e.g. public sector, charities)

Additionally, evidence of demonstrated strategic leadership in a large organisational unit or University-wide initiative and effective membership of a management team that developed and achieved shared goals and objectives (associate professor).

5. Demonstrated high level of interpersonal, communication and negotiating skills including the ability to consult with senior executives, and external bodies, produce executive reports and negotiate agreed directions, outcomes and targets within a collaborative environment

6. Demonstrated highly developed interpersonal skills and the ability to contribute to a dynamic, high-performance and collaborative academic culture.
We kindly request addressing the below points as part of this key selection criteria:

• Collaborative Spirit: Ability to collaborate with colleagues, advise teaching assistants, and tackle several administrative tasks.
• Student-Centric: Dedication to mentoring students, supervising their work, and fostering their academic growth.
• Innovative Mindset: Passion for creating the technological solutions of the future that support the meeting between man and technology.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Comfortable working in an interdisciplinary environment, collaborating with engineers, scientists, designers, artists, and practitioners.

Didactic selection criteria
Guiding information: From the point of view of teaching skills and experience, we are looking for someone that supports and expands on our Game Development and Learning Technologies degree. As such, the candidate should have experience teaching some of the following topics:

• Game design/development: should have familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine.
• Web programming: should have proficiency in web development languages (such as JavaScript, PHP, html) and frameworks (e.g. Node.js, React, etc.).
• Interaction design: understanding of user experience (UX) principles and interaction design principles, from simple to advanced levels of competence.
• VR/AR: experience with developing immersive experiences using VR and/or AR technologies.
• Hardware skills and Cyber-physical systems: Should have basic skills in developing digital electronics and embedded systems, interfacing sensors and actuators to microcontrollers to build and program full-stack cyber-physical systems.

7. Demonstrated experience planning, running and evaluating tertiary-level courses in topics of relevance to the Game Development and Learning Technologies programme
Demonstrated understanding and experience in using contemporary and emerging digital approaches, methods and tools in research, teaching or industry practice in the relevant area(s).

Additionally, demonstrated ability to lead improvement of academic standards, including implementing best practice teaching strategies and dissemination of innovative educational practices (associate professor).

Additionally, demonstrated ability to manage tertiary-level program/s and lead program reviews (associate professor).

8. Experience in attracting and supervising higher degree by research candidates to maximise research performance
Assistant professor: MSc candidates. Associate professor: PhD candidates.

Location
These positions are primarily located at SDU’s Odense campus, and you are expected to be regularly present on campus to facilitate student interaction, etc. Remote work is however common when there is no critical need to be on location, subject to local Danish regulations and rules.

The University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is a thriving institution located in the vibrant city of Odense, Denmark's third-largest city. SDU is home to more than 27,000 students, with nearly 20% international.

Odense is a city rich in history and culture, known for its close associations with the famous fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen. It is also known for its expansive robotics industry, and despite being a rural city, has a high technology footprint. It offers a high quality of life, and Denmark's healthcare system is world-class, providing universal access and high-quality care. The country's public holidays offer a work-life balance, contributing to Denmark's reputation as one of the happiest countries in the world.

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark can be found with the SDU International Office here. You may also visit Work in Denmark for additional information.

Please contact the SDU International Office for any questions related to international relocations to Denmark, living in Denmark, etc.

Contact information
For questions about the positions, please contact Head of the SDU Metaverse Lab, Professor Anders Drachen, on [email protected]

If you experience technical problems, please [email protected].

Conditions of employment
Assistant professor:
Appointment as assistant professor is temporary and for an initial 3-year period, with the possibility of extension depending on performance and funding.

Employment as assistant professor requires scientific qualifications at PhD level at the time of employment.

During employment, the assistant professor must complete the Lecturer Training Programme, unless similar prior training has been obtained and this is approved as a replacement tertiary pedagogical competence.

Associate professor:
Appointment as associate professor is offered on a permanent basis.

Employment as an associate professor requires academic qualifications at PhD level as well as scientific and teaching qualifications at a level achievable based on satisfactory completion of a period of employment as assistant professor/researcher but may be achievable by other means.

The preferred starting date is January 1st, 2025.
The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Further information on salary and taxation.

Assessment and selection process
Read about the Assessment and selection process.

Applications will be assessed by an assessment committee. Shortlisting may be applied. Only shortlisted candidates will receive a written assessment. Read about shortlisting at SDU.

Interviews and tests may be part of the process.

Application procedure
Applicants are advised to read the SDU information on how to apply and specific faculty information for application at the Faculty of Engineering.

The application must include (in English): (All attached files must be in Adobe PDF format):

• Cover Letter
• Selection Criteria: Motivated application addressing the Selection Criteria
• Curriculum vitae: There is no set format, but please include as a minimum the following sections (as relevant): scientific focus areas, profile/biography summary, list of key impacts, educational history, professional experience (specific to the year, or if less than a year in duration, to the month), overview of grants and other sources of research funding, research awards, overview of professional activities, overview of invited talks and seminars, organizational memberships, workshops organized, examples of press and publicity, languages spoken/read.
• Publications List: A complete list of publications, indicating which publications are most relevant for the positions. Include a summary table of publications according to type on the front page.
• Diplomas: Copy of diplomas including documentation of the MSc and PhD degree or equivalent (Danish and/or English).
• Teaching portfolio. Summary of experience in teaching and learning. Any format is acceptable, but you can find inspiration for structuring your teaching portfolio on the Faculty’s teaching portfolio page. (optional for Assistant Professor applicants)
• Research vision and plan, including an account of your own research and its impact, and a vision for future research stretching 3-5 years into the future. Include outlines of key grants you are hoping to apply for.
• Publications for Assessment: Up to 3 scientific, peer-reviewed publications that the applicant wishes to be included in the assessment of their scientific qualifications. The publications should be selected based on relevance with the announced positions. Please note that one PDF file must be attached for each publication. NOTE: If these chosen publications have been co-authored (i.e. if you are 2nd or later author), co-author statements must be a part of this PDF and must include information like in this example. (The statement is just for your inspiration).
• Documentation of other qualifications with relevance to the positions.
• Reference letters/References (as relevant).

UPLOAD GUIDE: Motivated application shall be uploaded as ‘Cover letter’, Curriculum Vitae shall be uploaded as ‘Resume’. All other documents shall be uploaded as ‘Miscellaneous documents’.

The application deadline is 15th October at 11.59 PM/23.59 (CET/CEST)

Formalities

• According to the University of Southern Denmark’s internal guidelines, there must be at least three qualified applicants to a position before it can be filled.
• Documents must not contain a CPR number (civil registration number) – in this case, the CPR number must be crossed out.
• The application and CV must not exceed 10 MB.

The University of Southern Denmark wishes to reflect the surrounding community and therefore encourages everyone, regardless of personal background, to apply for the positions.

Placering: Odense, Denmark