Research Assistant/Associate

The Human Cognitive Ecology Lab (PI: Ryutaro Uchiyama) at Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) invites applications for a full-time, hybrid (on-site & remote) Research Assistant or Associate position. The successful candidate will join a project that focuses on cognitive representations of spatial and environmental structure, with translational significance for areas like healthcare, education, and urban environmental design. In particular, the project will investigate how exploratory cognitive states – inferred from wearable physiological sensors, motion capture, and behavioral data – shape the learning of environmental representations (cognitive maps and world models) across age groups.

This project is a close collaboration with the School of Computing and Information Systems at Singapore Management University as well as the National Institute of Education at Nanyang Technological University.

• Review of submitted applications will commence on 12 January 2026. The preferred start date is March 2026 (or earlier).

Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the development of computational methods for the modeling, analysis, and management of behavioral, physiological, and environmental data
• Prepare and perform data collection for behavioral experiments
• Assist in the preparation of scientific publications and reports
• Daily operational and administrative duties related to project management

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a quantitative or computational discipline, with a strong academic record
• Prior experience as a research assistant or research engineer is preferred. Industry experience can be an advantage, if relevant to the project.
• High proficiency in coding (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB, JavaScript), data management, and scientific data analysis, as well as strong mathematical foundations
• Research experience in a technical field pertaining to human/machine intelligence or behavioral dynamics, such as cognitive science, machine learning, biomechanics, complex systems, control systems, or robotics
• Experience in any of the following areas will be considered an advantage: physiological sensor data, human biomechanics, movement kinematics, signal processing, virtual environmental design (e.g., Unity), reinforcement learning/MDPs, spatial navigation, psychological/behavioral data collection, and software development
• An efficient, organized, and self-motivated work style, as well as strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively with team members
• Candidates with stronger or more extensive relevant experience may be considered for the position of Research Associate.

How to apply:

Applicants are required to submit the following materials:

• A cover letter (1–2 pages) that highlights your research interests, envisioned career trajectory, and suitability for the role given the required skills and qualifications
• CV with details of past projects and research experience
• Links to repositories (e.g., GitHub) or other sample code
• Transcripts of any undergraduate and postgraduate degrees (Informal transcripts are sufficient; if obtaining transcripts requires time, they can be submitted later)
• Names, affiliations, and email addresses of two referees (e.g., professors or lecturers who are familiar with your work) who may be contacted for a reference
• (Optional) a writing sample

All application materials should be combined into a single PDF and sent to Dr. Uchiyama at ryutaro_uchiyama@sutd.edu.sg with the email subject line “Research Assistant/Associate application”.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.