Research project/Challenge
This project will investigate how and in what contexts Generative AI can meaningfully contribute to human learning. The project will involve the design and implementation of a multimodal evaluation framework to assess GenAI-assisted learning, combining objective metrics derived from behavioural and electrophysiological measurements. These metrics will be used to quantify the impact of GenAI support during learning in controlled experimental scenarios. A key component of the project is to explore how individual traits (particularly those associated with neurodiversity, such as autism spectrum disorder) modulate the effectiveness of GenAI tools. This work aims to determine whether these technologies can enhance learning for certain neurodiverse populations or, conversely, pose risks of adverse effects. The successful candidate will contribute to various aspects of the project, including the experimental design, data collection (e.g., recruitment, behavioural and EEG data collection), and data analysis. The successful candidate will also get the chance of learning about a broader set of topics by participating in the weekly team meetings, journal clubs, and seminars at the Di Liberto-lab ) and the ADAPT centre.
About the role
* Have a high-valuable impact to the project through the implementation of technical solutions to the project goals, in particular the behavioural and neurophysiology experiments for measuring the neural processing of trust
* Enhance your reputation through publishing in top-quality journals and conferences in collaboration with team members
* ADAPT's Research Development Team will help you develop your ideas into projects and establish a strong funding track record
* Collaborate with other team members across different universities (e.g., Prof. Ben Cowan, UCD; Prof. Claire Gubbins, DCU) and industry, acquiring substantial expertise in how to lead an interdisciplinary academia-industry collaboration
* You will develop as a researcher through access to a wide training & development opportunities
* You will build a strong network through opportunities to liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including industry and academic partners/collaborators.
* Involvement with all aspects of the project lifecycle
Minimum qualifications:
Master's or equivalent in computer science/engineering, cognitive psychology, neuroscience, or other relevant fields
Preferred qualifications:
* Prior experience running EEG and behavioural experiments (or similar)
* Experience in psychoacoustics or other related areas
* Any of the following would be desirable: Machine learning, Signal processing, Time-series analysis, Neural data analysis, LLM, Speech processing, Experience or background in neurodiversity research
Application Process
Interested candidates can submit their CV & cover letter to with the subject line "Research Assistant in Cognitive science and Generative AI – Application"
Applications must include:
* Cover Letter
A personal letter of motivation, indicating why you wish to conduct this research project offered by ADAPT, and why you expect that you will be able to complete the research successfully;
* CV
Detailed curriculum vitae, including – if applicable – relevant publications;
Informal enquiries about the role can also be sent to,
Please download full job spec. Closing date is 01 February 2026, late applications will not be accepted.