Offene Themen

Introduction

Recent insights from the Journal of Applied Psychology (https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/apl0001103) suggest a potential increase in loneliness and a need for affiliation due to AI interactions in the workplace. This thesis project offers a unique opportunity to examine these findings within the context of conversational AI. Is the impact of conversational AI as straightforward, or does a more nuanced understanding await discovery?

Objective

This project aims to replicate key aspects of the aforementioned study, with a twist: focusing on conversational AI. You'll recruit a diverse group of working participants, utilizing similar methodologies but adapting crucial questions to better fit the conversational AI context. Your research could redefine our understanding of AI's emotional implications in professional settings.

We're Looking For Students Who:

• Are intrigued by the intersection of AI, psychology, and workplace wellbeing.
• Can conduct independent research, including participant recruitment and data analysis.
• Are committed to thorough research methods, adapting existing frameworks to new contexts.

What We Offer:

• Regular feedback sessions.
• The flexibility to start the project at your convenience, aiming for a 6-month completion window.
• The chance to contribute significant findings to the academic community, with potential publication opportunities.

Application Details:

To apply, please provide:

• Your CV.
• Academic transcripts.

Contact:

Reach out to Andreas Göldi (andreas.goeldi@unisg.ch) for more information or to submit your application.

Embark on this journey to uncover the nuanced effects of conversational AI and challenge prevailing perceptions.

Situation The digital era has ushered in an unprecedented volume of data, with presentation slides as a primary medium for knowledge sharing in academic and professional settings. However, the efficient organization, retrieval, and understanding of these slides remain a challenge. This thesis aims to explore the integration of Machine Learning (ML) techniques, particularly in classifying presentation slides, to revolutionize knowledge management practices. By harnessing the capabilities of ML algorithms, we can significantly improve the accessibility and utility of presentation slides, thereby enhancing learning outcomes and knowledge dissemination.

Objective of the Thesis This thesis seeks to develop a comprehensive ML model for the classification of presentation slides. Key objectives could include:

• Development of a Classification Model: Designing and training an ML model to accurately classify presentation slides based on content, context, and structure.
• Evaluation of ML Algorithms: Comparing the effectiveness of various ML algorithms in classifying presentation slides to identify the most efficient approach.
• Integration with Knowledge Management Systems: Exploring the potential for integrating the classification model with existing knowledge management systems to enhance information retrieval and dissemination.

The thesis will involve a combination of qualitative and quantitative research, including data analysis, and potentially user studies to evaluate the system's effectiveness and user satisfaction. There will be a particular focus on the practical application of the research, aiming to develop a prototype or proof-of-concept that demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of the proposed solution.

Candidate Profile

Applicants should:

• Have a keen interest in machine learning, knowledge management, and educational technology.
• Be capable of working independently, with a proactive and problem-solving attitude.
• Possess strong communication skills and be willing to collaborate with a research team.
• Demonstrate proficiency in scientific writing in English.
• Have experience with programming languages such as Python, which is crucial for ML model development.

We Offer

• Close supervision by experienced researchers in the fields of Information Systems, AI, and ML, ensuring comprehensive guidance throughout the project.
• Regular review meetings and feedback sessions to support your progress and development.
• The opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research with the potential for publication in renowned conferences or journals.
• A flexible start date, with a completion timeline of approximately 6 months.

Application Process Interested candidates are invited to apply by submitting the following documents:

• A CV outlining relevant experience and skills.
• A transcript of records demonstrating academic performance.
• An estimated timeline for the thesis, including milestones and deliverables.
• A motivation letter (max. 250 words) explaining your interest in the topic and how you meet the candidate profile.

Contact For more information or to apply, please contact Alexander Meier at alexander.meier@unisg.ch, Research Assistant at IWI-HSG, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Ivo Blohm or Prof. Dr. Jan Marco Leimeister.

Situation

Are you passionate about the intersection of design, technology, and education? Do you want to contribute to the advancement of higher education by developing innovative certification systems? This thesis invites you to design an artifact that addresses the complexities and demands of reliable certification in higher education. Your work could shape how academic achievements are validated and recognized globally.

Objective of the Thesis

This design-oriented thesis will focus on creating an artifact - a model, a framework, or a digital tool - that enhances the reliability and efficiency of certification systems in higher education. The project will involve identifying key challenges in current certification processes, such as verification, fraud prevention, and international standardization. Your task will be to design a solution that is not only technologically sound but also adaptable to various educational contexts. This could involve integrating cutting-edge technologies like blockchain for secure and transparent record-keeping or developing a digital platform that simplifies and standardizes certification processes. The research will blend elements of design thinking, user experience, educational technology, and quality assurance in higher education.

Your Profile

• A keen interest in design research, particularly in educational technology.
• Creative and innovative thinking with a focus on practical solutions.
• Ability to work independently, with a strong initiative in problem-solving.
• Excellent skills in communication and collaborative work.
• Proficient in scientific writing in English and skilled in design methodologies.
• Experience in programming, UX/UI design, or educational technology is highly desirable.

We Offer

• In-depth guidance in design-oriented research methods.
• Opportunity to start immediately; the thesis is expected to be completed within ±6 months.
• An environment that supports innovative thinking and the creation of impactful artifacts.
• Potential for your artifact to be implemented, and for your findings to be published.

Application

If you are ready to take on this challenging and rewarding project, please apply with:

• Your CV.
• Academic transcripts.
• A proposed timeline for the thesis.
• A motivation letter (max. 150 words), expressing your interest in design-oriented research in higher education.

Contact

Philipp Gordetzki (Philipp.Gordetzki@unisg.ch), Research Assistant IWI-HSG, Chair Prof. Dr. Ivo Blohm.

Situation

The fashion industry has been working for years to collect the "right" customer data in order to better meet their customers` needs. Now, by using intelligent algorithms, they hope to gain new insights into market trends and to offer new services to a variety of customer groups. While the number of opportunities for new digital services in the fashion industry using AI seems limitless, focus is paramount, not least for financial reasons. But what exactly are the biggest customer needs, and how can a first MVP of an intelligent fashion recommender look like?
Objective of the Thesis

The overall objective of this exploratory thesis is to develop a structured customer journey for an intelligent fashion recommender app. Applying a lean product development approach, among others, this project will include identifying and prioritizing customer needs and classifying and prioritizing features for development. Your task will be to delve into the app design process and develop and test different high-fidelity mock-ups of the app design. The research will combine elements of explorative qualitative interview analysis, design-science research, lean product development.

Your Profile

• A keen interest in exploratory research at the intersection of business and IT.
• Strong interest in the area of AI and fashion.
• Ability to work independently, with strong customer-focus and problem analysis skills.
• Experience in, or a strong interest in learning about (lean) product management and app design.
• Effective communication skills in both in German and English language are highly desirable.

We Offer

• Strong guidance in explorative, design-oriented research methods and product management.
• An environment that encourages a strong customer focus and creative thinking.
• The opportunity to learn about the early challenges of AI development and exchange or work together with a young start-up in the fashion sector.
• The potential for your MVP roadmap to be implemented, and for your findings to be published.
• Opportunity to start immediately; the thesis is expected to be completed within ±6 months.

Application

If you are ready to take on this challenging and rewarding project, please apply with:

• Your CV.
• Academic transcripts.
• A proposed timeline for the thesis.
• A motivation letter (max. 200 words), expressing your interest in explorative research in AI in the fashion industry.

Contact

Prof. Dr. Ingrid Bauer-Hänsel (ingrid.bauer-haensel@unisg.ch), Assistant Professor for IT Management at the IWI-HSG.
 

Situation
In the dynamic landscape of today’s business world, the effective management of skills within organizations is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. Research on this topic is required as it aims to dissect the mechanisms of skill management, focusing on the identification, development, engagement, and retention of talent. Understanding these processes is vital for organizations to thrive in an environment marked by rapid technological change and evolving workforce dynamics. The comparative analysis of different skill management providers will offer insights into the best practices and innovative approaches used across the industry, contributing to the field of human resources and organizational development.

We plan to conduct this thesis in collaboration with the University of Kassel to analyze how different skill management providers conceptualize skills and what opportunities lie in their work.

You should

• have strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information
• have a basic understanding of/ strong willingness to work with qualitative research design
• have an interest in cognition research and neuroscience
• have scientific writing skills in English
• have scientific writing skills in English

Why should you apply?

• Collaboration will take place in close supervision, with regular review meetings (biweekly), feedback sessions, etc.
• Work can be started immediately.
• Possibility of making a real impact through publishing in a scientific conference

Contact

Leonie Freise, Research Assistant 

Application

If you are interested in this research opportunity, please apply to leonie.freise@unisg.ch with the following documents:

• CV
• Transcript of records
• Brief description of your motivation

I look forward hearing from you!

Unfortunately…

… there are currently no published master thesis on ‘metaverse’ available. However, should you be interested and passionate about ‘metaverse’ and are keen to write your thesis with us, I still want to encourage you to reach out! If you and your topic-idea convince us, there is no reason why a thesis with us shouldn’t be possible! However, please already include a concrete research idea and methodology in your initial request.

Background

Technologic development is changing the World-Wide-Web as we know it. The current version of the “Internet of Information”, used primarily to seemingly exchange information, increasingly evolves to an “Internet of Value”, also called web3, which empowers people to transact items of value with one another. (Tapscott and Tapscott 2017) Indeed, there are key technologies to permit value creation and value exchange in an online setting like cryptocurrencies, NFTs, native coins, and self-sovereign interoperable identities. However, there needs to be a platform so that people can experience web3 and interact with one another. A platform that makes web3 ‘tangible’ is metaverse.

Metaverse and its “combination of technological, social and economic drivers […] is resulting in explosive interest.” (Moy and Gadgil 2022, p. 5) While some consider metaverses to constitute the next evolutional step of the internet, others are still doubting their value proposition (Stokel-Walker 2021). However, there is no dispute that the idea of metaverses is gaining traction among academics and practitioners: With annual purchasing of virtual goods surpassing $54 billion, spending in metaverses almost doubled the amount for buying music in 2021 (Moy and Gadgil 2022). While Gartner forecasts over 30% of organizations to offer values in the metaverse by 2026 (Gartner 2022), JP Morgan estimates metaverses to account for over $1 trillion in yearly revenues by 2027, emphasizing that “metaverses will likely infiltrate every sector in some way in the coming years.” (Moy and Gadgil 2022, p.2)

Despite the prominence that metaverses gain in our society and economy, there is yet no consent of what constitutes a metaverse, in neither academia nor practice. Building on that, many questions about metaverses still need to be asked and answered. Example questions include (but are not limited to):

• The influence of metaverse’s physical limitations on users and use-cases (e.g., business vs. leisure)
• The role of VR and AR technology for the value propositions of metaverses
• The role of distributed data storage for metaverse use-cases
• The difference of metaverse and real-world interaction on user behaviour and user networking
• The difference of content creation in metaverse to other online platforms
• The difference of value creation on metaverses to other platforms
• The power differences of metaverse providers, celebrities, and common users in a decentralised metaverse
• The difference between metaverses and massive multiplayer online (MMO) games

We expect from you:

• a basic understanding of metaverse and the underlying technologies
• a basic understanding of theories and theorizing
• a basic understanding of qualitative research methods
• to be a communicative and open person
• to be able to work in an independent and accurate way
• to have scientific writing skills in English

We offer you:  

A close supervision and the opportunity to develop practical, as well as theoretical skills in the area of information systems. If you are interested, send your CV, transcript of records, a brief description of your motivation, and a research idea (including short descriptions for a research methodology) to Fabian Tingelhoff (fabian.tingelhoff@unisg.ch). We are looking forward to hearing from you!

Contact

Fabian Tingelhoff, Research Assistant IWI-HSG, Chair Prof. Dr. Jan Marco Leimeister

Application

If you are interested in this research opportunity, please apply to fabian.tingelhoff@unisg.ch.

Situation
Are you intrigued by the potential of large language models in revolutionizing the way we manage and disseminate knowledge? Do you want to be at the forefront of combining knowledge graphs with AI to create a more democratic, transparent, and efficient knowledge management system? If so, this thesis on decentralized knowledge management using large language models is for you!

Objective of the Thesis
The thesis could explore various facets of decentralized knowledge management systems, such as the architecture involving knowledge graphs, the role of large language models like GPT-4 in content curation, retrieval, and generation, and the community governance models that could be applied. Research fields could include the development of a proof-of-concept platform, or exploring ethical considerations in automated knowledge curation. You’ll have the opportunity to work with experienced researchers in the fields of Information Systems and AI. The thesis could involve qualitative research (expert interviews, case studies), quantitative research (surveys, experiments), or (preferred) the development of an application/PoC.

You should

• have a strong interest in AI, and (may be even distributed systems), and a desire to contribute to cutting-edge research in these fields.
• be a self-starter who can work independently.
• be a communicative and open person.
• work in an accurate way.
• have scientific writing skills in English.

Experience with programming languages such Python for machine learning, or JavaScript for web development could be advantageous depending on the field of research and/or research method.

We will offer you

• close supervision, with regular review meetings, feedback discussions, etc.
• the opportunity to start immediately, but the thesis should be completed within +- 6 months.
• the possibility of publishing your thesis (e.g., European Conference on Information Systems) as long as the results are worth publishing

Application
If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply with the following documents:

• CV
• Transcript of records
• An estimated timeline for the thesis
• Max. 150-word motivation

Contact
Alexander Meier (alexander.meier@unisg.ch), Research Assistant IWI-HSG, Chair Prof. Dr. Jan Marco Leimeister

If you want to learn more about knowledge graphsm decentralized systems and large language models:

https://neo4j.com/developer-blog/harness-large-language-models-neo4j/

Bridging Knowledge and Language: ArangoDB Empowers Large Language Models for Real-World Applications

Situation

This thesis aims to investigate how generative AI systems, such as advanced language models, can be optimized to support human creativity. You will focus on using eye tracking technology to understand how users interact with these AI systems. Key areas of exploration include user interface design, the impact of AI-generated suggestions on the creative process, and how users visually navigate through AI-assisted creative tasks. The research will combine elements of human-computer interaction, cognitive psychology, and AI to develop guidelines for designing AI systems that are intuitive and enhance creative thinking. You will have the chance to conduct experimental studies, analyze eye-tracking data, and possibly develop prototype interfaces. Collaboration with experienced researchers in AI, psychology, and user experience design is a key component.

Objective of the thesis

This thesis aims to investigate how generative AI systems, such as advanced language models, can be optimized to support human creativity. You will focus on using eye tracking technology to understand how users interact with these AI systems. Key areas of exploration include user interface design, the impact of AI-generated suggestions on the creative process, and how users visually navigate through AI-assisted creative tasks. The research will combine elements of human-computer interaction, cognitive psychology, and AI to develop guidelines for designing AI systems that are intuitive and enhance creative thinking. You will have the chance to conduct experimental studies, analyze eye-tracking data, and possibly develop prototype interfaces. Collaboration with experienced researchers in AI, psychology, and user experience design is a key component.

Your profile

• A strong interest in AI, human-computer interaction, and cognitive psychology.
• Independent working style, with a proactive approach to research.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Detail-oriented with a knack for precision in research.
• Proficient in scientific writing in English.
• Experience in programming (e.g., Python for data analysis) and familiarity with eye tracking technology would be beneficial.

We will offer you

• close supervision, with regular review meetings, feedback discussions, etc.
• the opportunity to start immediately, but the thesis should be completed within +- 6 months.
• the possibility of publishing your thesis (e.g., European Conference on Information Systems) as long as the results are worth publishing

Application
If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply with the following documents:

• CV
• Transcript of records
• An estimated timeline for the thesis
• Max. 150-word motivation

Contact
Philipp Gordetzki (philipp.gordetzki@unisg.ch), Research Assistant IWI-HSG, Chair Prof. Dr. Ivo Blohm

The Situation:

For instance, Lemonade is an insurance company that leverages the capabilities of conversational AI to revolutionize the traditional insurance model, streamlining the customer experience and offering efficient communication. Lemonade enhances customer interactions and simplifies complex insurance processes by employing conversational AI as a central and dominating customer channel across touchpoints. To do so, it employs a software-based agent capable of participating in natural, human-like user dialogue. The agent is engineered to comprehend, interpret, and produce responses that closely mimic human communication, resulting in more organic and intuitive interactions compared to a traditional website. This elevates the user experience and promotes more effective communication between Lemonade and its customers. As a result, Lemonade can offer instant support, simplify the purchase of insurance policies, and settle claims rapidly, thus setting new standards for customer experience and efficiency in the insurance landscape. However, conversational AI is also disrupting other industries. For example, Emirates Vacation integrated a conversational AI solution within its display ads, boosting engagement rates by 87% during a 30-day test. Likewise, Madison Reed’s Madi, a computer vision-enabled chatbot, increased engagement by 400% and achieved a 21% click-through rate.

Despite such success stories, numerous large-scale conversational AI projects have either failed or encountered severe challenges during their initial stage. Thus, it becomes clear that successfully implementing and managing conversational AI is not as easy as copying another company’s strategy. For example, Microsoft launched Tay, an AI-driven chatbot, in March 2016, only to decommission it within 24 hours due to the system’s dissemination of alarming political views instigated by user manipulation. Another notable event involved Facebook’s M assistant, launched in August 2015 and failing to adequately address approximately 70% of user inquiries. Consequently, Facebook terminated the M assistant in January 2018. In addition, in February 2023, Bing, owned by Microsoft, which integrated Open AI’s GPT4 in its search engine, experienced several glitches, causing Bing to propagate extreme views and suggesting to one user that he should end his marriage. Thus, the primary challenges in implementing conversational AI consist of, among others, establishing a clear vision of how the company will utilize the conversational AI solution to add value, ensuring user acceptance, enforcing adequate security, compliance, and governance measures, and maintaining a team dedicated to the continuous improvement of the solution.

The Objective of the Thesis:

This thesis aims to develop an AI Governance Model for incumbents in the Swiss financial industry. A wide variety of data has already been collected, placing you in a favorable position to bypass the data collection phase and concentrate directly on data analysis. It should be noted that the data consists of anonymized interviews.

The Candidate Profile:

Have a keen interest in Conversational AI and the financial industry.

Be capable of working independently, with a proactive and problem-solving attitude.

Possess strong communication skills and be willing to collaborate with a research team.

Demonstrate proficiency in scientific writing in English.

We Offer:

Close supervision by experienced researchers in the fields of Information Systems and Management.

Regular review meetings and feedback sessions to support your progress and development.

A flexible start date, with a completion timeline of approximately 6 months.

Application:

A CV outlining relevant experience and skills.

A transcript of records demonstrating academic performance.

An estimated timeline for the thesis, including milestones and deliverables.

A motivation letter (max. 55 words) explaining your interest in the topic and how you meet the candidate profile.

Contact:

Kevin Schmitt at kevin.schmitt@unisg.ch.

Situation

Are you fascinated by the transformative potential of generative AI (GenAI) in the software industry? Do you want to explore how GenAI can revolutionize software development processes, business models, and market strategies? Let's team up and delve into the employment of GenAI within software-intensive businesses and its impact on industry standards, competitiveness, and innovation.

Objective of the Thesis

This thesis aims to develop a deep understanding of how GenAI technologies can be integrated into software development to foster innovative business models, enhance competitive advantages, and address ethical and sustainability challenges. You will investigate the strategic adoption of GenAI across various business sectors, evaluate its impact on software licensing and intellectual property rights, and explore the societal implications of its widespread use in software engineering. Through empirical research, interviews with industry experts, and analysis of case studies on GenAI implementations, this project seeks to provide strategic insights into leveraging AI for sustained business growth and innovation in software industries.

Possible Research Questions Could Cover:

1. How can GenAI be employed to support novel and innovative software intensive business models?
2. How can the adoption of GenAI in software development affect the competitiveness and market positioning of software-intensive companies, and what strategies can be employed to leverage AI for business growth?
3. What are the potential barriers and challenges to the adoption of GenAI in software-intensive businesses?
4. How does the integration of GenAI in software-intensive businesses affect software licensing models, and intellectual property rights?
5. How can software businesses effectively navigate the ethical considerations and societal impacts of using GenAI?
6. How does the adoption of GenAI impact the sustainability of software businesses?

You Should...

• Be interested in AI, particularly generative AI, and its applications in transforming software business paradigms.
• Be able to conduct independent research while effectively managing your time.
• Possess excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with peers and experts.
• Show a commitment to employing rigorous research methodologies.
• Have strong academic writing skills in English.
  
  We Will Offer You
• Personalized guidance and mentoring by Olivia Bruhin, including regular progress reviews and feedback sessions.
• The flexibility to start your thesis at your convenience, aiming for completion within 6 months.
• Opportunities to publish your findings in reputable academic forums, contingent on the significance and quality of your research.
  
  Application

To apply, please submit the following:

• Your current CV
• Academic transcripts
• A proposed timeline for your research
• A motivation letter (not exceeding 150 words)
  
  Contact

Olivia Bruhin (olivia.bruhin@unisg.ch), Research Assistant at the Chair Prof. Dr. Jan Marco Leimeister