The Subdepartment of Human-Techology Interaction (HTI) focusses its research on scientific problems associated with human behaviour in relation to technological products and environments. This includes research in virtual and augmented reality, hearing research, sound perception and synthesis, multimodel interaction, and human factors.Its staff includes 15 academic staff members, 3 postdocs, and 24 doctoral students.Facilities include a recording studio, sound insulated booths, and a multisensory laboratory including facilities to synthesise visual, haptic, and auditory objects in virtual reality.

The subdepartment of HTI offers training at bachelor, master and post graduate level in perception, sound design, cognition, human factors, research methods, social psychology, environmental psychology, consumer behaviour, user studies, and decision making. HTI participates in various European projects, SATIN, ASTRA, CHIL, OMNIPRESS, PASION, FUGA, GAMESatLARGE, and MUTED.

Project description
SATIN is a European project to develop SOUND AND TANGIBLE INTERFACES FOR NOVEL PRODUCT SHAPING. In this project virtual objects can be shaped by applying flexible strips over the surface of the virtual objects to be modelled. The strips will exercise force feedback so that the users can feel what they do.Furthermore, the movements of the users and contacts with the object will be coupled with sound which will give the user information about the material and surface properties of the object. The task of the applicant will be to synthesize these scraping and rubbing sounds on the basis of material and surface properties of the objects, so that the multimodal interface becomes more natural and intuitive. Various synthesis techniques can be used, partly dependent on the experience of the applicant, e.g. additive or subtractive synthesis, or synthesis based on acoustic models, such as partial differential equations or finite-element techniques. Moreover, the applicant will evaluate the added value of using sound in this multisensory interface. In summary, in the SATIN project, we will introduce and validate the new dimension of sound to communicate in an audible way local shape and material properties of virtual objects.

Requirements
Applicants should hold a PhD in physics, electrical engineering or mechanical engineering. The applicant must have sound knowledge of digital signal analysis. Demonstrable interest in perceptual processes such as hearing, and in acoustics is recommended. Prior experience with one of the mentioned synthesis techniques is especially valued.

Appointment and salary

We offer:

• a full-time temporary appointment for a period of 2 years, preferably starting as soon as possible;
• a gross monthly salary of EUR 2279 (up to EUR 3597), depending on the personal experience;
• a broad package of fringe benefits, including an excellent technical infrastructure, child care, savings schemes, and excellent sports facilities.

Information
More information about this position is available from dr. D.J. Hermes, e-mail: d.j.hermes@tue.nl, phone +31 40 2475214. Further information: M.E.M. Roelands personnel officer, phone +31 40 2474886, e-mail: pz@tm.tue.nl.

Application
Interested candidates are requested to send their application to:

Technische Universiteit Eindhoven
Department of Technology Management
Personnel Department, Pav R.1.23
PO Box 513
5600 MB Eindhoven
The Netherlands

Please include the job vacancy code: V39.408-2. You are allowed to send your application by e-mail: pz@tm.tue.nl.

The application has to consist of the following parts: a motivation for your application containing not more than 250 words; curriculum vitae; two letters of recommendation; a copy of the Master thesis and the PhD thesis; if possible, other examples of scientific documents.

Applications should be received by June 15th, 2007. As part of an equal opportunity scheme, women are explicitly requested to apply.