Generative AI for Advancing Early Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment Care

This project aims to develop innovative Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen-AI)-powered applications to improve the quality of life for individuals with early-stage dementia (ESD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). It also focuses on providing holistic support for caregivers at all stages of dementia, with a particular emphasis on alleviating stress and emotional distress.

Key technologies such as Large Language Models (LLMs), e.g., ChatGPT, Virtual Reality (VR), Extended Reality (XR), and conversational chatbots will be employed to create adaptive, user-friendly solutions. These tools will support individuals with dementia in maintaining cognitive engagement, emotional well-being, and social interaction. Examples include virtual environments tailored for memory stimulation, AI-driven chatbots for conversational companionship, and XR applications for immersive therapeutic activities.

The project’s dual focus includes:

1. Enhancing Quality of Life for Individuals with Dementia: By creating personalized AI-driven tools, the project will help individuals sustain cognitive activity, enjoy meaningful engagement, and maintain their sense of independence.
2. Supporting Caregivers: Applications will offer caregivers practical resources, stress management tools, and educational support to navigate the challenges of caregiving effectively.

By leveraging state-of-the-art generative AI and immersive technologies, this initiative seeks to address the everyday challenges faced by dementia patients and their caregivers, promoting dignity, resilience, and enhanced well-being—without involving diagnostic or medical functionalities.

Keywords: Generative AI, Early-Stage Dementia, Mild Cognitive Impairment, ChatGPT, Virtual Reality, Extended Reality, Chatbots, Cognitive Engagement, Caregiver Support, Stress Management

Requirements:

Essential:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (2:1 or above) in relevant fields such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Human Computer Interactions, or a related discipline.
• Strong communication skills.
• Understanding of research methodologies and experimental design.
• Demonstrated experience in developing or implementing machine learning models, particularly deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch).

Desirable:

• Familiarity with Generative Artificial Intelligence technologies, such as LLMs, and chatbots.
• Experience in designing and developing applications involving Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, or Extended Reality technologies.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should email Dr. Yashar Moshfeghi (yashar.moshfeghi@strath.ac.uk) and include the following attachments:

• Cover letter detailing contact information, motivation, background, and proposed research direction (max 3 pages).
• Up-to-date CV.
• Transcripts and certificates of all degrees.
• Two references, one academic.

Contact Dr. Yashar Moshfeghi to express interest. Applications will be processed on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, and the hiring process will conclude as soon as a suitable candidate is identified.

We are committed to inclusion across race, gender, age, religion, identity, and experience, and we believe that diversity makes us stronger by bringing in new ideas and perspectives. The University of Strathclyde was established in 1796 as “the place of useful learning”. This remains at the forefront of our vision today for Strathclyde to be a leading international technological university that makes a positive difference in the lives of its students, society and the world. Strathclyde was the first institute to win the coveted Times Higher Education “University of the Year” award twice, in 2012 and 2019, and has since been voted the Scottish University of the Year in 2020.