The Gamification Research Group of the Chair of Information Systems at the University of Bamberg (Otto-Friedrich-Universität Bamberg) invites applications for a position as

Doctoral Researcher in the area “Games in Science Communication” (m/f/d)
(100% full-time equivalent, E13 TV-L)

The position is available as soon as possible and is fixed-term until December 31, 2029.

In collaboration with the Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, we investigate how digital games can be used to convey relevant knowledge about autoimmune diseases and innovative therapeutic approaches to young people as well as to patients. In recent years, this work has resulted in games such as INFLAMMANIA 1 and 2 (https://www.inflammania.de/de.html), the Roblox game INFLAMMANIA 3D, and the VR application CASTLE VR (https://youtu.be/HkrRrvBW9zk), all of which have received numerous awards. As part of the DFG Collaborative Research Centre 1755 CASCAID, we plan to develop new games on the popular gaming platform Roblox, evaluate them and promote them in the form of a “metaverse” for immunology – the IMMUNOVERSE.

Support us in this endeavor and help create innovative games for patient and science communication: In close collaboration with leading experts in immunology, you will develop and research exciting multiplayer Roblox games. You will accompany the use of these games by different target groups and conduct empirical studies to generate new knowledge about the use of games in science communication. Your research combines theory, practice, and design-oriented research (Design Science). In doing so, you will translate scientific insights directly into tangible solutions and evaluate their effectiveness in practical application.

Responsibilities:

• Design and development of multiplayer games related to current medical research on the gaming platform Roblox.
• Design, execution, and analysis of empirical studies (especially lab and field studies) on the effects (e.g., regarding social dynamics, learning outcomes, enthusiasm) of different design approaches in games for patient and science communication.
• Derivation and validation of design knowledge for the effective implementation of serious games in patient and science communication.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration with leading medical professionals as well as experts in communication.
• Participation in public relations activities (e.g.,  game conventions and hackathons).
• Publication of research results at conferences and in academic journals.
• Project-related collaboration with students, e.g., in the context of theses, courses, or seminars.

Your profile:

• Very good university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in game design, information systems, media informatics, media psychology, psychology with an IT-related focus, human–computer interaction, or a related discipline.
• Creativity and a drive to design software solutions: You enjoy turning ideas and concepts into digital products.
• Knowledge of empirical and design-oriented research methods (e.g., Design Science Research, participatory design, prototyping, lab and/or field experiments).
• Initial experience in developing digital games with development environments such as Roblox Studio, Unity3D, Unreal, or Minecraft is an advantage.
• Enthusiasm for research on games, gamification, virtual worlds, or VR.
• A high degree of responsibility, goal orientation, perseverance, and pioneering spirit.
• Very good English skills, both written and spoken. German is a plus.

What we offer:

The Gamification Research Group of the Chair of Information Systems at the University of Bamberg, led by Prof. Dr. Benedikt Morschheuser, is internationally recognized for its research on the effective design and the technological, economic, and societal impacts of digital games, as well as the increasing application of technologies and methods from gaming outside the games industry (e.g., gamification, virtual & augmented reality, the “metaverse,” exergames, serious games, and game-based learning). Our research is interdisciplinary and takes place at the intersection of psychology, design, computer, social, and economic sciences. We therefore value diversity and interdisciplinary skills within our team. Our office is located on the beautiful ERBA Island in Bamberg. We offer a start-up-like working atmosphere in a friendly team with flat hierarchies, direct communication, and a high degree of trust and freedom for all team members.

We provide close supervision for your individual doctoral project and support in building a network in industry and academia. We support your participation at international conferences and increasing the visibility of your research.

Employment is governed by the collective agreement for the public service of the German federal states (TV-L). The position is fixed-term for the duration of the project. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if equally qualified. We aim to increase the proportion of women and therefore explicitly encourage suitably qualified women to apply. The University of Bamberg has been certified by the Hertie Foundation as a family-friendly university and is particularly committed to reconciling family and working life. If duties allow, part of the working time may also be carried out from home.

Your application:

Please send your application, including a cover letter, CV, copies of certificates, and your most recent academic work (e.g., Master’s thesis, seminar paper) and, if available, a list of publications by email to Prof. Dr. Benedikt Morschheuser (Benedikt.Morschheuser(at)uni-bamberg.de).

If you have any questions about the position or the application process, please feel free to contact us.

Application deadline: 31 July 2026

Contact address:

Prof. Dr. Benedikt Morschheuser

Email: Benedikt.Morschheuser(at)uni-bamberg.de

Homepage: http://uni-bamberg.de/games/