[AISWorld] PhD Position in Computational Social Simulation

[Wingyan Chung]

The University of Central Florida (UCF) invites applications for one or more PhD position(s) in computational social simulation. The selected candidate will contribute to a multi-year, multi-institution team project to advance understanding and practice of online social simulation. The position is located at the UCF Institute for Simulation and Training (IST). The selected candidate is expected to pursue a PhD study and to work half-time on the project during regular semesters (Fall and Spring), and to work full-time on the project during Summer semesters. Scholarships in the forms of tuition remission and/or graduate assistantship may be provided.

Job Description:
1.     Conduct research and publish academic papers under the supervision of a UCF faculty member and the dissertation committee members.
2.     Develop computer programs and manage datasets to support experiments and research activities.
3.     Assist in specific research projects in computational social simulation of online social networks.
4.     Assist in proposal development, manuscript writing, administration, and related grant activities.

Required Qualifications:
Earned bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant discipline,science, statistics, information systems, computational simulation, or a closely related discipline from a U.S. accredited university or international equivalent. The selected candidate must be admitted to (or is expected to be enrolled in) the UCF PhD program in Modeling and Simulation (M&S, http://www.graduatecatalog.ucf.edu/programs/program.aspx?id=1328 ).

Preferences:
1.     Excellence in academic performance and writing, as shown in course grades and projects.
2.     Demonstrated records of publications in academic journals and conferences.
3.     Knowledge and skills in social network analysis, machine learning, statistical analysis, and developing simulation applications.
4.     Proficiency in computer programming using Java, Scala, Groovy, and/or other languages.
5.     Strong interest in social and behavioral disciplines.
6.     Experience and knowledge in simulation software tools.
7.     Good communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.

Application Procedure:
All applications must be sent to ucfcyber at gmail.com, with the subject  “PhD Position Application” and must include the following documents (combined in a single PDF file): (1) A cover letter, (2) A recent CV documenting the applicant's education, skills, and other relevant experience, (3) Copies of academic transcripts, and (4) A list of names, affiliation, and contact information (including email addresses and phone numbers) of at least three professional references. All information is kept confidential and is used only for this position’s recruitment.

Legal authorization to pursue full-time graduate studies in the United States for the duration of position is required. Non-U.S. nationals who can obtain non-immigrant student visas (e.g., F-1) will be considered.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, UCF is a thriving preeminent research university located in metropolitan Orlando, Florida, USA (more at https://www.ucf.edu/about-ucf ). IST has over 30 years of internationally-recognized M&S research achievements (http://www.ist.ucf.edu/overview.htm ).