[agents] PhD Studentship: Companion players for immersive computer games

[Stathis, Kostas]

PhD Studentship: Companion players for immersive computer games

Applications are invited for a fully-funded PhD studentship on companion players for immersive computer games at Royal Holloway, University of London (Departments of Media Arts and Computer Science), in partnership with Sony Interactive Entertainment.

The proposed research will explore the relevance of AI technological innovation to develop adaptive companions for immersive computer games.  In particular, the project will address how a computer program can learn from human players, both by intelligent imitation and by learning intelligent responses or companion actions. This line of work will allow artists and programmers to find new ways on how agents interact with the environment/world they are creating and even automate some of the animation of characters that takes a lot of time to develop.

This award is made by the TECHNE AHRC Doctoral Training Partnership under the National Productivity Investment Fund (NPIF) Partnership Award scheme. The studentship includes a stipend of £16,553 (plus fees at home/EU rates) for the 3 years. Students can apply for an additional six months stipend to engage in extended development activities such as work placements with Sony Interactive Entertainment.

As a TECHNE student, the successful candidate will have full access to the TECHNE Doctoral Training Partnership development activities and networking opportunities, joining a cohort of about 50 students per year from across seven universities in London and the south-east. TECHNE students can apply for additional funding to support individual or group training and development activities.

The candidate should have an excellent first degree in Computer Science, or similar, and a strong interest in AI, and should ideally have previous experience in some of the following areas: game design, AI and machine learning and intelligent agents. Excellent computing skills are a requirement and experience with game design and/or platforms will be a plus.

The project is adventurous and requires a hands-on approach, creativity, and strong motivation to help push the boundaries of AI in games. You will join a highly supportive research group at Royal Holloway and we expect you to bring excellent interpersonal and communication skills for collaboration with our international partners.

How to Apply

Informal queries about the studentship can be addressed to: Kostas.Stathis at rhul.ac.uk.

Formal applications should be sent to techne at rhul.ac.uk and include your CV (including contact details of one academic referee), a 1-2 page letter outlining your qualification for the studentship, and any relevant academic transcripts.

Applications will be reviewed on a weekly basis, with an initial deadline of 20th July 2018.