Student Volunteer Program

The Student Volunteer program is looking for students for the 21st Annual ACM/IEEE International Conference on Human-Robot Interaction (HRI).

Student Volunteers (SV) are the heart of what makes a conference run smoothly, providing support for various activities at the conference (e.g., registration desk, technical assistance during presentations, demo setup/take down, assistance and support, etc.).

Being an SV is a great way to participate in one of the leading conferences in the HRI research community, expand your knowledge, and network with many fellow students. We would like to include students with diverse backgrounds from everywhere in the world.The link for applying for the student volunteer program will be available on October 6, 2025, at new.chisv.org.

Important dates (AoE)

Applications open: October 6, 2025
Applications close: Jan 15, 2026
Announce (accepted SV + waitlist): Jan 20, 2026
Final decision (for waitlist): end of January maximum

For those who get an SV position on Jan 20, 2026 (not those on the waitlist), you will have two weeks to confirm by email that you will attend the conference and agree to be engaged as an SV. This will allow those on the waitlist to be informed whether they get a slot as quickly as possible.

How can I become a Student Volunteer?

We are expecting a total of 30 spots, although the final number may vary. For HRI24, 171 people applied and about 20% became SVs. For HRI25, 139 people applied and about 15% became SVs.

This year, we plan to improve the recruitment process and make it more engaging. There are several ways to become an SV. Though they all require you to apply via the application form link. Applications sent by email will not be considered.

The selection process will take place in the following order to give a chance to everyone:

1. Nominated by one of the HRI26 organizers (facultative)

It is possible to obtain a slot if you are recommended by one of the HRI26 organizers. Three SV positions will be offered in this way. To be nominated, you will need to apply via the application form link and ask the organizer to send us an email with the reasons why they would like to nominate you.

2. Classic Selection Process

The Classic Selection Process corresponds to the evaluation of your application in the enrollment form and will provide about 70% of available slots. Some criteria include but are not limited to: a clear motivation, a paper submitted and accepted for HRI26, selected as a pioneer, diversity criteria, additional information on how you think you, as a SV, will benefit the conference (including additional skills such as photography, proficiency in multiple languages, accessibility for everyone, technical skills, video editing, etc.), appeal to the conference theme (i.e., HRI Empowering Society), etc.

3. Random Selection Process

After selecting the volunteers through the classic selection process, we will randomly recruit (via a spin wheel) about 20% of those who were not selected. This allows us to give a chance to all those who decide to apply but don’t fit the selection criteria we chose.

4. Waitlist

A waitlist will be set up in case any students accepted as SVs withdraw their applications. The same system as the Random Selection Process will be used. That is, people will be randomly chosen to be on the waitlist. If you are selected for the waitlist, you will not be informed of your rank on the waitlist, but will be notified as soon as possible if you are allocated an SV slot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

We have put together some frequently asked questions below:

1. When should I arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland?

You are requested to arrive at the conference no later than the morning of March 15, 2026. SV must attend the entire conference (March 16-19, 2026; workshop days included) in Edinburgh. In addition, a training session (to provide information, tasks, and to meet you) will be offered the day before the conference (March 15, 2026).

2. Do I have to pay the conference registration fee if I am a Student Volunteer member?

No, in gratitude for your help, we would like to offer you the conference registration and workshop fees.

3. Is there any travel support available?

Support might become available, depending on budget and outside funding. Watch the conference website for updates.

4. How long do I have to work during the conference?

You will be required to work a certain number of hours during the entire conference, usually around 20 hours (the exact hours will be determined later). Outside these hours, you are free to do as you wish and to attend the available workshops/conference sessions.

5. Can I still be an SV if I miss orientation, work under 20 hours, or arrive late?

We are afraid not. However, if you’ve already agreed to participate and something truly unforeseen happens (e.g., severe travel disruption), please contact us as soon as you’re aware. We’re understanding, but early communication is essential.

Any question can be directed to the Student Volunteer Chairs Dr Muneeb Ahmad and Yan Zhang at: 2026-studentvolunteerchairs-bounces@humanrobotinteraction.org.

We look forward to seeing you at the HRI 2026 conference!