Karyn Moffatt

Karyn Moffatt is an Associate Professor in the School of Information Studies at McGill University and holds the Canada Research Chair in Inclusive Social Computing. As Graduate Program Director for the PhD program, she leads the Accessible Computing Technologies Research Group (ACT Lab), focusing on designing inclusive computing applications that support social engagement across diverse lifespans and abilities. Her work bridges human-computer interaction, accessibility research, and real-world community impact.

Educational background:

• PhD in Computer Science, University of British Columbia
• MSc in Computer Science, University of British Columbia
• BASc in Computer Engineering, University of British Columbia

Research Interests:
Dr. Moffatt's work centers on inclusive social computing with emphases on aging populations, disability access, and intergenerational communication. She investigates how technology can overcome barriers to social participation through co-design methodologies, particularly for older adults and individuals with cognitive or physical disabilities. Current projects explore AI-enhanced aging support, dementia-friendly social platforms, accessible financial technology, and respite care coordination systems. Her approach integrates participatory design with rigorous usability testing to create solutions that address real-world challenges in healthcare, finance, and community engagement.

Publication Trends:
Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals consistent focus on aging and accessibility (60% of works), with growing emphasis on AI ethics (2025), dementia support systems (30% of 2023-2024 works), and accessible financial technology (2024). Methodologically, 75% employ co-design or participatory approaches, while 40% involve longitudinal field studies. Key venues include CHI (33%), ASSETS (20%), and ACM Transactions on Accessible Computing (27%), demonstrating leadership in top-tier HCI and accessibility forums.

Scientific Awards:

• Multiple Best Paper Awards from ASSETS, CHI, and CSCW conferences
• Canada Research Chair in Inclusive Social Computing

Advising and Grants:
Dr. Moffatt currently supervises PhD candidates Chong Hu and Muhe Yang, having graduated four students since 2022 including Maurício Fontana De Vargas (2023) and Carrie Dai (2023). Her active grants include:

• NSERC Discovery Grant (2024-2029) as PI: Ethical AI for active aging
• Canada Research Chair renewal (2022-2027) as PI
• McGill Nursing Collaborative grant (2023-2025) as Co-I: iRespite mHealth app for palliative care

Labs and Teams:
She directs the ACT Lab, which partners with healthcare providers, public libraries, and community organizations to develop and deploy inclusive technologies. Current initiatives include the QuickPic AAC system for speech therapy, dementia-focused social programs with Montreal libraries, and Quebec-wide respite care coordination tools, all developed through interdisciplinary collaboration with clinicians, caregivers, and end-users.