Developing Cognitive Models that Learn from Instruction
Description
The Air Force Research Lab 711th Human Performance Wing (711 HPW) is a unique combination of three units: the Airman Systems Directorate (RH), the US Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine (USAFSAM) and the Human Systems Integration Directorate (HP). The synergies of combining the ideas, resources and technologies of these units position the 711 HPW as a world leader in the study and advancement of human performance. For more information about the 711th HPW, please visit the following site: https://www.wpafb.af.mil/afrl/711hpw/.
This fellowship will involve conducting postdoctoral research on developing computational cognitive process models capable of learning from instruction. The research involves deriving knowledge representations from text-based instructions, integrating the new knowledge with existing knowledge, developing base knowledge and procedures to translate knowledge from instruction into action, and developing computational and analytical approaches to bring a task-knowledgeable model to a desired level of task proficiency.
Under the guidance of a mentor, the selected individual will have opportunities to influence significant portions of the research and will work closely with Dr. Christopher Myers & Dr. Christopher Stevens of the Cognitive Science, Models, & Agents Branch at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). Further, the fellowship would involve close collaboration with Dr. Dario Salvucci (Drexel), Dr. Pascal Hitzler (Kansas State University), and Dr. Benji Maruyama (Materials & Manufacturing Directorate, AFRL).
Appointment Length
This appointment is an initial one year research appointment, with a following year requested for a total of two years. Appointments have the possibility to be renewed for additional research periods. Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant.
Participant Benefits
Participants will receive a stipend to be determined by USAFRL. Stipends are typically based on the participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. Other benefits may include the following:
o Health Insurance Supplement. Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE.
o Relocation Allowance
o Training and Travel Allowance
Nature of Appointment
The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DOD, or any other office or agency. Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.
Qualifications
Qualified candidates must be U.S. citizens. Will have (or will soon receive) a doctoral degree in cognitive science, psychology, AI/computer science, or a related field. Strong applicant experience in computational modeling and programming.