PHD Studentship in Game Data Analytics Coventry University -Serious Game Institute

Three year PhD studentship
Funded by: (Faculty / Dept / Centre) Hildebrand
Fees: Home /EU fee equivalent will be paid as part of the Studentship (Eligibility is restricted to UK/EU fee payers only)Maintenance grant: £13,590 maintenance per annum (tax free)
Supervised by: Prof Sara de Freitas Coventry University, Serious Games Institute  And: Drs Ian Dunwell & Maurice Hendrix (Coventry University, Serious Games Institute)
Game Mechanics as Motivators: The Behavioural Economics of Energy UseApplicants are invited for a fully-funded PhD studentship examining the behavioural economics of energy use and specifically the use of game mechanics as motivators.

The Serious Games Institute at Coventry University is globally recognised as a Centre of Excellence for the serious applications of game technology, such as video games, virtual worlds and social networking. Hildebrand is the world-leading expert in data collection, management and presentation for the energy sector and combines research with real-world experience to deliver innovative solutions for its clients. This studentship forms part of a close collaboration between Hildebrand, and the Serious Games Institute at Coventry University. The three-year project will cover the use of game mechanics as motivational tools, primarily for promoting behavioural and attitudinal change towards more responsible energy consumption. Research will seek to gain insight into understanding the use of game mechanics for promoting desired behaviour, using monitoring and assessment of real-time energy data. The PhD student will work closely with the SGI and Hildebrand. The successful candidate will be primarily based at Hildebrand's London offices; though will be an active member of the applied research group at the Serious Games Institute, led by Prof. Sara de Freitas, and will have the opportunity to attend regular tutorials and courses at Coventry University's Serious Games Institute.

Candidate specificationThe successful candidate should have or expect to obtain a Masters or first-class honours degree in a relevant discipline, such as psychology, social/behavioural science, economics, computer science, physics, mathematics, or game design.

We are looking for a creative individual with a good understanding of, and keen interest in, game mechanics and game design. This should be supported by sound knowledge of research methodologies and the desire to closely align both research and game development work.  A basic understanding of data collection methods, together with some knowledge of analytical techniques would be advantageous. Existing skills relevant to game development, for example previous experience working with a game engine, game development environment, or 3D design tools, would also be beneficial.

Please note thisInformal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Maurice Hendrix maurice.hendrix@coventry.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent to this Email address will not be accepted

Closing date: March 1st 2013

Interview date to be advised to suitable candidates

Instructions for applicants

To view details of Studentship, please visit the link: http://www.coventry.ac.uk/researchnet/d/795

For an application form please visit the link: http://www.seriousgamesinstitute.co.uk/studentship.aspx

If applicable: (please submit a: (2000 word proposal on how you would address the research theme) –/ not required

For guidance on writing a proposal, please visit the following link http://www.coventry.ac.uk/researchnet/d/781

Complete the application form and return with a covering letter to:

Research Admissions team
RAO
Student Centre
Coventry University 
Priory Street
COVENTRY
CV1 5FB
United Kingdom
Fax: +44 (0)24 7688 8609 
Email: research-apps.pg@coventry.ac.uk