Doctoral Student

This PhD project investigates how human decision-making and cognitive biases influence the earliest stages of engineering design— when ideas are first formed, and critical decisions shape the future of innovation. You will explore how professionals interpret user needs and convert them into design requirements, and how cognitive biases can distort this process.

The goal is to inform the development of next-generation, AI-powered design tools that are aware of and responsive to human biases—tools that actively support creativity, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability in conceptual design.

Qualifications

We are looking for you to have:

• a first class or upper second-class UK Honours degree, or international equivalent, in engineering, design, computer science, human factors, computer science, statistics or a related field
• a strong and genuine interest in the topic, as demonstrated by previous degrees, projects and/or work experience
• strong critical thinking, communication (written and oral), collaboration, and independent working skills
• if English isn\’t your first language, you\’ll need an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, with no individual score below 5.5

Preferably, you will also have:

• a relevant Master\’s degree
• solid understanding of design processes, decision-making, or human factors
• familiarity with quantitative research design and analysis
• basic knowledge of cognitive psychology, behavioural science or human-AI collaboration
• data analysis tools (such as Python, R, or SPSS)
• experience conducting empirical research in interdisciplinary projects

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

For further details and submit your official application use the following link: https://www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/postgraduateresearchphdopportunities/engineering/designmanufacturingengineeringmanagement/cognitivebiasesinconceptualdesigntheroleofaiandindividuals/