[AISWorld] PhD studentship in the Department of Computing, The Open University, UK

[Shailey Minocha]

Computing Department, The Open University, UK

Walton Hall, Milton Keynes MK7 6AA, UK.

Applications are invited for a fully-funded three-year PhD studentship.

Project: Investigating the success factors in the creation and sustenance of online communities

This project aims to investigate: the factors that contribute towards the creation and sustenance of online virtual communities, and the challenges that communities experience to sustain themselves? The outcomes of this project will be of particular interest to organisations in the e-government and e-commerce domains, that are aiming to engage with customers through online communities with the aim of co-designing products and services with their customers that will better meet their customers’ needs.

Skills and Background required: Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the proposed research we would like to hear from candidates who have a Masters Degree in HCI, Psychology, Business, or a related discipline, and have an outstanding research potential with a keen interest in CSCW and social software. Informal enquiries about the proposed research can be made by e-mail to Dr. Shailey Minocha, <s.minocha at open.ac.uk>. 

The Open University is one of the UK's leading Research Institutions. In the 2008 RAE over 50% of its research was rated as world leading or internationally excellent. The university provides excellent support and training to research students. Students normally live in, or within commuting distance of Milton Keynes. 

For details about how to apply: please see <http://tinyurl.com/mcb7xw>

Closing date: 19th March 2012

Interview date: 27th March 2012