Irene Ye Yuan

Dr. Irene Ye Yuan is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computing and Software at McMaster University's Faculty of Engineering, with a joint appointment as Associate Member of the McMaster School of Biomedical Engineering. Her research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Social Computing, specifically designing technology for collaborative social experiences like intergenerational communication and remote play.

Education

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, University of Minnesota
• M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction and Design, University of Washington

Research Focus

Dr. Yuan's work integrates ethnographic, design, and mixed methods to develop frameworks for multimodal interactions that foster meaningful social connections. Key domains include:

• Technology for intergenerational relationships
• Remote collaboration tools
• Embodied interaction systems
• Educational technology (VR/AR pedagogy)

Publication Trends

Her recent publications (2019-2024) in top-tier venues like CHI and CSCW emphasize socially connected experiences, with recurring themes of remote collaboration, intergenerational communication, and tangible interfaces. Methodologies blend qualitative analysis with system prototyping.

Awards

• Three CHI Honorable Mentions
• IMWUT Distinguished Paper Award
• IDC Best Paper Award

Academic Activities

Dr. Yuan leads the ESI Lab at McMaster, focusing on Engaging Social Interactions. She teaches CAS 731: Social and Collaborative Computing and actively recruits graduate students for projects involving qualitative methods, system building, and empowerment of vulnerable groups (older adults/children).