Positive Technology Journal

(thanks Regine)

From the Augmented Reality & Pervasive Computing Lab (Universität Graz) web site: 

Technische Universität Graz (TUG), Austria, invites applications for open research positions in the project Augmented Reality & Pervasive Computing Lab, aiming at the development of mobile augmented reality, wireless information systems, and ubiquitous computing infrastructures. This program is funded in part by theAustrian Ministry of Science (bm:bwk), the Austrian Science Funds, and the IST program of the EC. More details on the project are given in the summary below. We are looking for a candidate having some or most of the following qualifications:

• University degree, preferably MS (Diplom, DEA, or equivalent) in computer science, mathematics or related field; plus the intent to pursue a PhD at TUG or in collaboration with the candidate's home institute. Alternatively, we are also inviting applications from postdocs who are interested in continuing scientific work. Compensation will be based on qualification.
• Strong interest in research on virtual environments, augmented reality, humancomputer interaction, real-time graphics, and pervasive computing infrastructures. Some background in computer graphics, multimedia or networking is expected.
• Considerable experience with software development methodology and tools, in particular object-oriented programming, C++, OpenGL, Open Inventor, XML, MS Windows, Linux. Prior involvement in research or development projects is a plus.
• Fluency in English, good communication skills and capability of working in teams complete the profile of a successful candidate. Note that knowledge of German is not expected (but this may be your chance to learn it! :-). What do we offer in exchange:
• The opportunity of pursuing a funded PhD/research position in an exciting new field
• A lot of freedom to explore both your scientific and creative interests in the course of your work
• A very good working climate
• A chance to live in the beautiful city of Graz

Project Summary

In our everyday world we are not limited to our computer desktop. Information in the real world is perceived and processed in three dimensions, continuously and in real time. A human-computer interface that can capture these properties will be able to render a new level of services to the user, enabling the use of computers for new application domains and for new user populations. This „anywhere" and „anytime" requirement for pervasive computing cannot be fulfilled with miniature versions of desktop environments, such as provided by the ubiquitous cell phones, nor can it be realized by putting web kiosks around every corner. Therefore, what kind of user interface style can provide these radically different properties for the years to come?

The core of the proposed research is the following thesis: Augmented reality (AR), i. e., enhancing a user‘s perception of the real world with computer generated elements (e. g., explanations), can make working with computers in 3D as productive as the desktop metaphor in 2D. This thesis is motivated by the fact that AR allows to integrate the whole world into the interface – the world essentially becomes the interface. Therefore users are able to leave their physical desktops and computer desktops to interact with their environment and with other users. The AR platform Studierstube lead by the proposer is world-wide unique in its combination of augmented reality, 3D display and groupware elements. The proposed program work will expand the augmented reality platform Studierstube into a pervasive computing environment built on a variety emerging technologies.

Some important building blocks of this of this infrastructure are:

• Wearable computer with 3D augmented reality display
• Wireless spontaneous communication: among worn components, with the environment, with other users, indoors and outdoors
• Exact position tracking indoors and outdoors
• Integration into the environment, e. g., spontaneous usage of situated displays and devices
• Scalable situated multi-user displays based on inexpensive PC clusters and projectors.

A number of promising application areas is selected, for which applications will be developed that try out the new style of interfacing with the computer in practice:

• Navigation and guidance systems
• Tourist information systerms
• Building, campus, and office information systems
• Maintainence and repair support
• Planning, surveying and construction

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If you think about applying, send a letter including curriculum vitae and publications list (preferable by email) to: Dr. Dieter Schmalstieg, schmalstieg@icg.tu-graz.ac.at