Dissertation (m/f/x) - User Experience in VR Simulations for Crisis Management

Since its foundation in 2019, the Institute for the Protection of Terrestrial Infrastructures has been dedicated to protection and security of critical infrastructure. We develop concepts, procedures and technologies that strengthen and improve the resilience of organisations and systems. In doing so, we focus on people, technology and the overall system.

What To Expect

Various threats – such as fires, gas leaks or a range of other crisis scenarios – present growing challenges for local authorities and operators of critical infrastructure (KRITIS). To ensure confidence in decision-making, modern situation visualisation systems are indispensable – they support emergency services and crisis management teams in their decision-making. As part of this research project, we are developing a digital VR application that enables emergency services to simulate and train for crisis scenarios in a safe environment.

In this role, you will build on the insights already gained from research and preliminary studies. Your core task will be to conduct a user‑centred study with the target group to optimise the VR solution, enhance usability and adapt the training to real‑world conditions. In this way, you will make a significant contribution to the sustainable improvement of disaster relief.

Your Responsibilities

• You will analyse the current state of the art and research existing methods for training in crisis scenarios.
• You will develop, plan and conduct a scientific user study to validate the VR application with regard to crisis management.
• You will evaluate the collected results and incorporate them into further technical development.
• You will document and record the results in accordance with good scientific practice to help shape future research and ensure scientific progress.

What You Bring To The Role

• You are a student of engineering, social sciences, natural sciences or another relevant degree programme.
• You have a basic understanding of scientific methods of data collection and analysis (e.g. questionnaires or interviews).
• You have prior knowledge in one of the following areas: KRITIS, usability research, situational awareness, conducting user studies.
• You enjoy working in a team and have excellent communication skills in German and English.

We look forward to getting to know you!

If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy-ID 4715) please contact:

Tobias Koch

Tel.: