Qiaoning Carol Zhang

Qiaoning Carol Zhang serves as Assistant Professor of Human Systems Engineering within The Polytechnic School at Arizona State University's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. Her research investigates the critical intersection of human perception, social contexts, and emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, robotics, and automated vehicles, with emphasis on creating intuitive, user-friendly, and inclusive systems.

Her academic foundation includes:

• Ph.D. in Information, University of Michigan (2023)
• M.S. in Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan (2018)
• B.S. in Industrial Engineering, Hunan University (2016)

Dr. Zhang's research program centers on understanding how individual differences and social dynamics shape technology interactions. Key focus areas include Human-AI Collaboration, Human-Robot Interaction, Human Factors in Automated Vehicles, and User Experience Design. Her work employs interdisciplinary methodologies to ensure technology adapts to diverse user needs across complex socio-technical environments, particularly in transportation and healthcare robotics.

Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2021-2025) reveals dominant themes in trust dynamics within automated vehicles, with significant attention to explainable AI interfaces. Research consistently examines how voice characteristics (gender, similarity), explanation modalities, and individual differences (age, personality) impact cognitive and affective trust. Recent work extends to healthcare robotics for elderly populations using Kano model analysis to identify critical user requirements.

No scientific awards are documented in the provided materials.

Dr. Zhang actively recruits Ph.D. candidates and undergraduate/master's researchers with backgrounds in human-computer interaction, data science, and interdisciplinary fields (design, computer science, cognitive science). She emphasizes opportunities in transportation technology, healthcare robotics, AI, and UX research/design, requiring applicants to submit CVs, research statements, and representative work samples. While specific grants aren't detailed, her research scope indicates substantial funding in human factors and emerging technology domains.

Her research team focuses on developing empathetic technology through projects examining trust calibration in automated vehicles and healthcare robot design for older adults. Current initiatives include voice interface optimization for diverse user groups and Kano model applications in home healthcare robotics, aiming to bridge technical capabilities with human-centered design principles.