Human-Computer Interaction Research Scientist
Los Altos, CA, United States
At Toyota Research Institute (TRI), we’re on a mission to improve the quality of human life. We’re developing new tools and capabilities to amplify the human experience. To lead this transformative shift in mobility, we’ve built a world-class team in Human-Centered AI, Human Interactive Driving, Energy and Materials, Machine Learning, and Robotics.
The Human Interactive Driving team seeks to accelerate the path to building a much more intelligent vehicle that places humans at the center of a more evocative and safer driving experience. Under the Driving-Sensei concept, we research AI-based interactions to unlock a person’s full driving capability while simultaneously making driving safer and more enjoyable.
We are looking for an HCI researcher to work on our Driving-Sensei project, focusing on designing user studies, implementing prototype software and hardware, conducting user studies, analyzing data, and reporting findings through writing papers.
Responsibilities Design and conduct user studies to evaluate the effectiveness of HCI systems in improving driving skills and enjoyment
Develop and implement prototype HCI systems that involve real-time interactions reacting to sensor inputs from a vehicle
Analyze data collected from user studies (Python/R) and present findings through internally and externally published research papers and presentations
Debug hardware and software interfaces from both software and hardware perspectives
Train and manage research assistants to aid in the execution of research
Capture intellectual property generated through the research process in the form of invention disclosures
Specify, budget, and manage recruitment activities performed by external agencies
Work on-site at our Los Altos office and travel monthly to a race track for vehicle testing
Qualifications PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, or equivalent
3+ years of experience in HCI/HMI research or human-factor-related projects.
Hands-on approach to prototyping and coding (e.g., Python, C++, Arduino, Raspberry Pi)
Strong programming skills in Python, C++, and development tools in Linux
Experience implementing interactions using machine learning algorithms, including large language models and computer vision
Ability to communicate complex concepts clearly across difference audiences
Have a high level of initiative and self-motivation, work without direct supervision
Bonus Qualifications Working knowledge of software development using ROS2
Basic understanding of vehicle control and/or wheeled robotics
Experience in software development in a commercial environment
Experience in researching shared control systems
Experience working in the field of artificial intelligence, including autonomous and semi-autonomous driving systems or robotics
Experience working with various input and output modalities (i.e., touch, speech, haptics, displays, etc.)
The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between$151,800and$210,000/year for California-based roles; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Note that TRI offers a generous benefits package (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave) and an annual cash bonus structure. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.
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