Fully Funded Connect Lab Graduate Research Positions 2026 at Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University

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Description

The School of Computing Science at Simon Fraser University (SFU) invites applications from highly motivated and research-oriented students to join the Connect Lab, based in Vancouver, British Columbia, for the Fall 2026 intake. The lab is led by Dr. Ouldooz Baghban Karimi (PhD, PMP), an accomplished researcher whose work sits at the intersection of networking systems, data-driven analysis, and human-centered computing. As the lab continues to grow, Dr. Karimi is seeking to recruit two thesis-based MSc students and two PhD students who are eager to contribute to impactful, interdisciplinary research. This opportunity is particularly well-suited for candidates who are interested in how networked systems and data technologies interact with human behavior, societal needs, and real-world contexts. The Connect Lab emphasizes research that is both technically rigorous and socially aware, aiming to design and analyze computing systems that are inclusive, accessible, and responsive to diverse communities. Students joining the lab will benefit from a collaborative and intellectually stimulating research environment within one of Canada’s leading computing science schools. All positions are fully funded, providing students with financial stability throughout their graduate studies and allowing them to focus fully on research and academic development. Beyond funding, the lab is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, and actively supports the broadening of participation in computing science research. Located in Vancouver, SFU also offers a vibrant academic and cultural environment, with strong connections to industry, research networks, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. 

Responsibilities

Research Focus Areas

The Connect Lab employs a multidisciplinary research approach, combining technical expertise with human-centered perspectives. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate a strong interest or prior experience in one or more of the following active research areas:

• Networks and Intelligent Systems: Research focused on edge intelligence, network automation, and verification, to build efficient, reliable, and scalable networked infrastructures that can support emerging data-intensive applications.
• Immersive Multimedia Technologies: Exploration of next-generation multimedia systems, including immersive and interactive media, with an emphasis on performance, user experience, and the integration of advanced networking and data technologies.
• Artificial Intelligence in Education: Investigation of how artificial intelligence can be applied within computer science education to enhance learning outcomes, personalize instruction, and support educators and students through data-driven insights.
• Human-Centered Decision-Making: Research examining how computational systems, data analytics, and intelligent tools can support human decision processes, particularly in complex or high-stakes environments, while ensuring usability, transparency, and trust. 

Research Value and Benefits

Selected candidates will benefit from a comprehensive funding and professional development package designed to support both academic excellence and personal growth:

1. Full Funding Package: The MSc (thesis-based) and PhD positions are fully funded, covering tuition fees and providing a competitive living stipend. Funding is typically provided through a combination of university scholarships, research assistantships (RA), and/or teaching assistantships (TA), ensuring students can focus entirely on their research without financial stress.
2. Research and Travel Support: Funding may also include support for attending conferences, workshops, or specialized training programs, enabling students to present their work, network with global experts, and gain exposure to the broader research community.
3. Expert Mentorship and Supervision: Students will receive hands-on guidance from Dr. Ouldooz Baghban Karimi, an expert in edge intelligence, networks, and human-centered computing. The mentorship includes regular research discussions, project planning, and assistance with academic writing, journal publications, and conference submissions.
4. Collaborative and Multidisciplinary Environment: The Connect Lab emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration. Students will have opportunities to work with peers and faculty across computing science, multimedia systems, AI, and human-centered technologies, fostering innovative solutions to complex research problems.
5. Inclusive and Supportive Community: The lab actively promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion. Students from underrepresented groups in computing are particularly encouraged to apply, and the lab ensures a welcoming environment that values different perspectives, encourages open dialogue, and supports personal and professional development.
6. Professional Development Opportunities: Beyond research, students have access to mentorship in career planning, project management, and leadership skills. This includes guidance on publishing, grant applications, and building a professional network within academia and industry.
7. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Students benefit from access to SFU’s advanced computing labs, research infrastructure, and software tools necessary for cutting-edge work in AI, immersive multimedia, and networked systems. 

Check also: 

Human-Computer Interaction STEW Lab PhD Recruitment 2026 

Qualification

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants for the Connect Lab positions must satisfy both the general admission requirements of Simon Fraser University’s School of Computing Science and the specific expectations of the lab:

• Academic Background: Candidates should hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Computer Science or a closely related discipline such as Electrical Engineering, Data Science, or Software Engineering. Exceptional candidates from other quantitative or technical fields may also be considered if they can demonstrate strong programming, analytical, and research skills relevant to the lab’s focus areas.
• Research Interest and Experience: Applicants should have a clear interest in one or more of the Connect Lab’s core research pillars, including edge intelligence, immersive multimedia, AI in education, or human-centered decision-making. Prior experience in research projects, publications, or hands-on technical work related to these areas is highly advantageous.
• Technical Skills: Candidates should be proficient in programming languages commonly used in research (e.g., Python, Java, C++), and experience with AI/ML frameworks, multimedia platforms, network simulations, or data analysis tools is a plus. Strong problem-solving, quantitative reasoning, and computational thinking skills are expected.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: The Connect Lab is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. Applicants should demonstrate openness to collaborative work with peers from diverse backgrounds and a willingness to contribute positively to the lab’s culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Admission Eligibility: Applicants must be eligible for admission to the SFU Graduate Program (MSc or PhD) for the Fall 2026 term. This includes meeting all standard academic prerequisites, submitting required documentation, and, where applicable, providing proof of English language proficiency for international students.
• Motivation and Fit: Successful candidates will show clear motivation to contribute meaningfully to ongoing research projects, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and a proactive approach to learning and problem-solving in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Additional Considerations: Prior research publications, thesis work, internships, or professional experience in computing science, human-centered computing, or related fields will strengthen the application. While not mandatory, experience in interdisciplinary collaboration or applied projects that connect computing research to societal or human-centered challenges is highly valued. 

Application Procedure

Applying to join the Connect Lab at Simon Fraser University is a structured process that combines direct engagement with the lab supervisor and a formal university application. Prospective candidates should follow these steps carefully to ensure a complete and competitive submission:

1. Initial Contact with Supervisor: Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to reach out directly to Dr. Ouldooz Baghban Karimi via email at ouldooz@sfu.ca. This initial contact allows prospective students to discuss their research interests, inquire about ongoing projects in the lab, and seek guidance on tailoring their application to align with the lab’s focus areas. Providing a concise introduction, academic background, research experience, and areas of interest in this email is highly recommended.
2. Prepare Your Application Materials: Candidates should assemble all necessary documents before beginning the formal university application. This typically includes: (a) Academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. (b) A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting research experience, publications, technical skills, and relevant projects. (c) A statement of interest or research proposal that clearly articulates your motivation, research goals, and how your interests align with the Connect Lab’s core focus areas. (d) Any letters of recommendation requested by the SFU Graduate Program.
3. Formal University Application: Submit an application to the SFU Graduate Program in Computing Science for either the MSc or PhD track, specifying the Fall 2026 intake. All required materials must be uploaded through the official SFU Graduate application portal. The application must be completed accurately and submitted before the stated deadline to be considered for the lab positions.
4. Follow Up and Communication: After submission, candidates may be contacted by Dr. Karimi or SFU admissions for additional information, interviews, or clarification of documents. Maintaining clear and timely communication throughout this process is critical.
5. Selection: Admission and lab placement decisions will be made based on academic qualifications, research experience, fit with the Connect Lab’s research priorities, and potential for contributing to the lab’s collaborative and inclusive research environment. 

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