Research Assistant (m/f/d) HSZG-KI-Buddy - Keyword: 39-2025 StudienerfolgKOM - KI-Buddy -

The “Studienerfolg KOM³” project at the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences (HSZG) aims to improve academic success through the targeted development of study skills, digital competencies, and problem-solving skills. The focus is on innovative, interdisciplinary learning arrangements that prepare students from all disciplines for the demands of the digital transformation. The core objectives are to reduce dropout rates, promote equal opportunity, and break down barriers to accessing educational opportunities. A particular focus of the project is on implementing adaptive learning formats that can be flexibly tailored to individual learning needs and promote basic digital competencies. The use of an AI-powered learning companion is intended to pave the way for personalized learning support. The project integrates approaches from Computational Social Science (CSS) to strengthen data-based methodological competence and data literacy. By combining perspectives from the social sciences and data science, students are empowered to professionally evaluate digital data and make evidence-based decisions. The project thus contributes to sustainably meeting the demand for skilled workers in Saxony and supports the regional economy by training digitally competent graduates.

The “HSZG-AI-Buddy” subproject focuses on the design, development, and testing of an AI-supported learning companion intended to provide students with individualized, low-threshold support throughout their studies. The AI Buddy is intended to include advisory elements, learning recommendations, and pre-boarding formats, and in particular to help break down barriers for students with increased support needs.

The position specifically involves the following tasks:

• Analysis:
  • Identification of relevant requirements,
  • Identifying relevant training data,
  • Taking into account the interests of various user groups,
  • Documenting the analysis,
• Design:
  • Comparative evaluation of existing products, including product testing,
  • Reasoned recommendation for a product and its configuration,
• Configuration:
  • Creation of a functional instance,
• Commissioning:
  • Monitoring and evaluation of product operation,
  • Error documentation and troubleshooting,
  • Continuous improvement through enhanced training data or modified configuration.

The following knowledge and skills are required:

• a completed academic degree in STEM, computer science,
• expertise in training, configuring, and using AI products (LLM),
• Linux operating system skills,
• an understanding of pedagogical concepts and methods, as well as the ability to develop teaching and learning formats that effectively support students’ needs and learning goals,
• Ability to develop creative solutions and pursue innovative approaches in the field of education,
• Flexibility and resilience in a dynamically evolving project environment,
• Ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders in a manner tailored to their needs.

In addition, the following are desirable:

• Familiarity with universities and university processes,
• pedagogical or subject-specific teaching skills,
• knowledge and experience in project management,
• practical English skills.

What You Bring to the Table

• Enjoyment of working with IT, particularly LLM on Linux,
• Ability to coordinate and communicate independently with third parties,
• Ability to work well in a team,
• Creativity and an innovative mindset,
• Ability to handle pressure,
• a strong interest in scientific problems,
• willingness to work in an interdisciplinary team,
• an independent, solution-oriented, and proactive approach to work,

• willingness and interest in professional and personal development.

We offer you

• an interesting and challenging field of work within a qualified, open-minded, and dedicated team,
• flexible and family-friendly work hours, as well as opportunities for remote work in accordance with the relevant HSZG service agreements,
• opportunities for personal and professional development through targeted continuing education and training,
• attractive employee benefits (company pension plan, annual bonus, capital-forming benefits),
• a workplace Health Management program with initiatives to promote employee health, and
• the option to use a job ticket.