Scholarships
Fully Funded MSc Opportunity at the University of Victoria: Assistive Technology Research
Are you passionate about Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), health technologies, and collaborative design? The University of Victoria (UVic), Canada, is inviting applications for an exciting MSc research opportunity in the field of Personalized Assistive Technologies. This fully funded graduate position offers students the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research while studying in one of Canada’s most beautiful cities.
About the Project
The project focuses on developing innovative tools for collaboratively designing and evaluating personalized assistive technologies (ATs). Assistive technology refers to devices, software, and systems that improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities. Millions worldwide rely on ATs to perform daily tasks, from mobility aids to glucose monitors.
The research team envisions a future where end-users, healthcare professionals, and product designers work together to create tailored assistive technologies that meet the unique needs of individuals. The project will include:
- User Studies – Investigating how collaboration can enable the design of personalized glucose monitors.
- Software Development – Building a high-fidelity software system to support collaborative design.
- Evaluation & Analysis – Assessing the strengths, limitations, and future potential of the developed system.
This project builds upon previous groundbreaking research from the Creative Experiences Lab at UVic, including work on DIY glucose monitors, DiaFit, MakeAware, Documented, and Cross-Sensory Globe.
👉 Learn more about related publications here: CELab Publications
Funding & Benefits
- Stipend: Covers basic living expenses and university fees.
- Additional Opportunities: Students can apply for scholarships and teaching assistantships.
- Networking: Work alongside leading researchers from UVic, the National Research Council Canada, and Autodesk Research.
- Work Environment: Join the VIXI Lab and Creative Experiences Lab, gaining experience at the intersection of academia, research, and industry.
Supervision Team
The student will be supervised by an outstanding interdisciplinary team:
- Dr. Sowmya Somanath (University of Victoria)
- Dr. Hélène Fournier & Dr. Irina Kondratova (National Research Council Canada, HCI Team)
- Fraser Anderson (Autodesk Research)
Why Study in Victoria, Canada?
Located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Victoria is famous for its mild climate, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. It’s one of Canada’s most livable cities, offering the perfect balance of research, career development, and lifestyle.
Explore more about the city: Tourism Victoria
Candidate Requirements
We are looking for motivated students with the following background:
- An MSc degree (or soon to be completed) in Computer Science, HCI, Health, or related fields.
- Knowledge of qualitative research methods.
- Experience with developing prototype user interfaces.
- Familiarity with fabrication tools (3D printers, CNC machines, Arduino, electronics).
- Previous experience in publishing at top HCI venues (CHI, ASSETS, CSCW, DIS, TEI) is desirable.
How to Apply
If you are interested, please email Dr. Sowmya Somanath at sowmyasomanath@uvic.ca with the following documents:
- Your CV
- Most recent unofficial transcript (include overall GPA)
- A brief personal statement explaining your interest in this project
- Any relevant past experiences (publications, demos, reports, or videos)
✨ Don’t miss this chance to pursue a fully funded MSc in Canada while contributing to groundbreaking research in Assistive Technology.
