Research Lead - Center for Transformational Play - HCII

Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA, USA
Posted on May 31, 2025

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that challenges the curious and hardworking to deliver work that matters. Our extraordinary institution has distinctive areas of excellence and a culture marked by ambition and a deep, practical engagement with challenges facing society. We continue to produce talented alumni and draw faculty and staff eager to be a part of the university’s creative, dedicated and close-knit community. We place emphasis on practical problem solving, interdisciplinary learning, a transformative spirit, and collaboration.

The Center for Transformational Play (CTP) is a research center launched by the Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science to house the research and development of transformational games. We use resources across the university and our region to increase their impact through an ecosystem of rich connections. Always growing the boundaries of what is possible, we build community, do high-quality research, make games, and connect with the world. We provide research-backed solutions to help people solve problems that matter to them through the power of games and play. We aim for our work to be joyful, effective, and valuable to those who engage with it.

We are seeking a Research Lead that wil lead and manage the CTP's 2025 grant funded project with Allegheny Health Network through project closeout on 9/29/2025.

Core responsibilities include:

  • Interface with design and programming teams to maintain alignment between research goals and prototypes
  • Coordinate sprint planning and execution in consultation with design and programming teams
  • Generate documentation, including instructions for client deliverables
  • Ensure research goals are met
  • Research program and project management
  • Ensure research findings are communications productively to the funder of the grant
  • Other duties as assigned

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within the School of Computer Science Research Department. Collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree; Master's Degree is preferred
  • Five (5) years experience of research based work or project management
  • Strong communication skills
  • Deep understanding and experience of research design, research practices
  • Experience and ability to lead and manage a diverse team
  • A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements

  • Successful background investigation may be required.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Engineering, Research and Project Scientists

Position Type

Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Part time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information:

  • Please visit Why Carnegie Mellonto learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.

  • Statement of Assurance