Communications Prof Seeking Research Assistant - Web-based Chatbot Developer for AI Companionship Project

Research Assistant – Web-based Chatbot Developer for AI Companionship Project (Immediate Start)

We are hiring a research assistant to help develop a web-based chatbot platform for a study on AI companions and memory design. The project investigates how different AI memory frameworks (e.g., session-based vs. persistent) shape users’ privacy management, trust, and disclosure behaviors.

Supervision

You will work directly with Hsuen-Chi (Hazel) Chiu (PhD Candidate) and Dr. Jeremy Foote (Purdue University). The position starts immediately and involves close collaboration on project planning, development, and user studies.

Position Overview

We’re looking for a student with experience in web application development, including both front-end (JavaScript)and back-end (Python, SQL) work. Experience with large language model (LLM) APIs (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic, Hugging Face) is highly desirable. You will build and maintain a research chatbot that supports participant interaction and data collection.

Preferred Skills

  • Proficiency in JavaScript, Python, and SQL
  • Experience integrating or deploying LLM APIs
  • Familiarity with database management and web hosting
  • Interest in AI, privacy, or human–computer interaction (HCI)

Compensation / Credit Options

This position can be structured as a) paid research assistantship, b) research collaboration leading to co-authorship, or c>independent study/research credit, depending on your goals and level of involvement.

Start Date

Immediately (Fall 2025) — flexible hours available.

To Apply

Please email your resume, a brief statement of interest, and any relevant coursework or project examples to chiu101@purdue.edu (Hsuen-Chi (Hazel) Chiu) and jfoote@purdue.edu (Dr. Jeremy Foote) with the subject line: “AI Companionship Project – Research Assistant Application (Fall 2025)”

Last Updated: Oct 22, 2025 11:34 AM