Find Academic Supervisors

Mikael B. SkovView profile

Professor

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Artificial Intelligence
• Robotics
• +6 more

Mikael B. Skov is a Vice Dean and Professor at the Technical Faculty of IT and Design of Aalborg University , Denmark. His research spans human-AI interaction, robotics, and user experience, with a focus on trust signaling in clinical AI, swarm robotics, and sound zones for domestic environments. Role: Vice Dean for Research Department: Computer Science Research Interests: Skov investigates how humans interact with AI and robots in healthcare and domestic settings, emphasizing trust calibration, alert design, and acoustic comfort. His work includes developing frameworks for UX maturity in robotics organizations and studying long-term adoption of sound zone systems. Recent Projects: As principal/co-investigator, he leads the HERD project on human-AI collaboration in robot swarms (2021–2025) and supervises Data og Bæredygtig Mad (2020–2023), an HCI perspective on sustainable food systems. Publications: His 2024 work includes studies on AI explanations in clinical training, music applications with intermittent interactions, and multi-robot supervision. Earlier projects (2001–2020) focused on mobile device usability, UX practices, and context-aware computing.

Thomas BjørnerView profile

Associate Professor

• Qualitative Research
• Mixed Methods
• User Experience
• +5 more

Thomas Bjørner is an Associate Professor at Aalborg University's Department of Architecture, Design and Media Technology within The Technical Faculty of IT and Design. He serves as Head of the Media Innovation & Game Research (Me-Ga) unit and co-founded the research network for qualitative methods (since 2007) with 40+ company collaborations. Specializes in qualitative/mixed methods for technology evaluation Teaches PhD courses in advanced qualitative methods EU expert evaluator for research grants His research focuses on gamified learning , VR for social communication , and technology acceptance studies , often addressing UN Sustainable Development Goals. Recent projects include: Audio-only VR for blind gamers Generative AI integration in education Plastic crisis awareness games Smart city implementation barriers Scientific Awards: Serious Game Competition Award (2022) International conference prizes (2020, 2018) With over 121 publications including two textbooks, his work emphasizes applied qualitative methods with improved validity in technology contexts, particularly for youth education and media research.

Niels AageView profile

Associate Professor

• Topology Optimization
• Acoustics and Vibroacoustics
• Biomechanics
• +5 more

Niels Aage is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). His research focuses on topology optimization, biomechanics, and multiphysics modeling, with applications in acoustic devices, biomedical implants, and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). He holds roles such as Vice President of the International Society for Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization (2023–2027). Education and Professional Background: Conducted a 5-month research visit at the University of Colorado, Boulder (USA) in 2010. Specializes in giga-scale numerical modeling, finite element methods, and topology optimization algorithms. Research Interests: Develops novel methods for topology optimization of fluidic, thermal, and acoustic systems. Explores applications in patient-specific spinal implants, metamaterials with vibroacoustic bandgaps, and nonlinear dynamic substructuring. His work integrates machine learning and reduced-order modeling for efficient simulation. Publications: Over 100 peer-reviewed articles, including recent contributions on connectivity promotion in topology optimization (2025), vibroacoustic metamaterial design (2025), and anatomically conforming spinal fusion cages (2024). Research emphasizes high-resolution modeling and bridging computational design with additive manufacturing. Scientific Awards: ISSMO Haftka Young Investigator Award (2021), Equinor Prize 2020, and Hyperion Innovation Excellence Award (2017). Recognized for contributions to structural optimization and computational mechanics. Advising and Grants: Supervises multiple PhD projects, including work on vibroacoustic shape optimization, quantum-opto-mechanical systems, and smart hearing aid modeling. Engages in collaborative projects funded by industry and academia. Labs/Teams: Collaborates with DTU’s Solid Mechanics group and industry partners on projects involving topology optimization, multiphysics simulation, and biomedical engineering. Active in international conferences and serves on editorial boards.

• Human Factors
• Human-Computer Interaction
• E-Health
• +6 more

John Paulin Hansen is a Professor at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), affiliated with the Department of Technology, Management and Economics under the Technology and Business Studies school. His research focuses on human factors, human-computer interaction, and assistive technologies, particularly in gaze interaction and rehabilitation robotics. He holds a Ph.D. from Aarhus University (1992) and has led research groups at institutions like Risø National Laboratory and the IT University of Copenhagen. His work emphasizes improving quality of life for individuals with motor disabilities through innovations like The Eye Tribe and GazeIT lab initiatives. Research Interests include: Eye-tracking technology and gaze interaction systems Exoskeletons and AR interfaces for stroke rehabilitation Human digital twins in healthcare Telepresence robotics accessibility Brain-computer interfaces (BCI) Key Achievements: Founded EU’s COGAIN network, co-created The Eye Tribe startup (acquired by Facebook/Oculus), and leads the GazeIT lab supported by the Bevica Foundation. His projects address sustainable development goals through inclusive technology solutions. Awards: Vanførefondens Forskerpris 2018 Multiple Best Paper Awards (2019–2022) Reviewers' Favourite Best Paper Award at DESIGN2022 Advising & Grants: Mentor to startups like The Eye Tribe and Orbital (acquired by GN Audio). Current projects include EU Horizon 2020 Rehyb initiative for AR exoskeleton interfaces and Human Digital Twin applications in rehabilitation. Labs/Teams: GazeIT lab pioneers assistive tech innovations, collaborating with LEGO and Serious Games Interactive. Active in developing inclusive design pedagogy and digital twin methodologies for healthcare.

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Usability Research
• Eye Tracking
• +2 more

Kasper Hornbæk is a Professor at the Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen, specializing in Human-Centred Computing. He conducts research in human-computer interaction (HCI), usability, eye tracking, visualization, and software engineering. Primary Fields: Human-Computer Interaction, Usability Research, Eye Tracking, Visualization, Software Engineering Recent Collaborations: International (country/territory-level) partnerships in HCI and AI Research Outputs: 228 publications focusing on multimodal interaction, VR, and causal modeling His work explores audio-tactile integration, theoretical frameworks in HCI, and principles for user interface design through empirical studies and meta-analyses. Recent projects include heartbeat resonance interfaces and critiques of experimental methodology. Contact: kash@di.ku.dk | Research Website

• Sensory Science
• Flavour Perception
• Eating Behaviour
• +7 more

Qian Wang is an Associate Professor at the University of Copenhagen's Department of Food Science. Previously, he was a tenure-track assistant professor at Aarhus University (2018-2023) and held postdoctoral and research positions at the University of Oxford and MIT. Wang earned his PhD in Experimental Psychology from Oxford, MSc from MIT's Media Lab, and BSc in Computer Science from Caltech. His interdisciplinary research examines how taste, smell, and multisensory interactions influence food perception and consumer behavior. Key focus areas include: Crossmodal sensory interactions (audio-visual-tactile influences on flavor) Digital interventions for sustainable food choices VR/AR applications in eating contexts Machine learning models of sensory perception Plant-based food acceptance strategies Wang's recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate strong focus on sustainable food systems, sensory perception mechanisms, digital tool applications, and cross-cultural consumer studies. Article keywords frequently include sensory evaluation, consumer behavior, sustainability, and technological innovation. Awards include: Nils Foss Talent Prize (2019) Wang leads interdisciplinary projects funded by international agencies and collaborates with academic, industry, and cultural partners to translate research into practical dietary interventions.

Christian SivertsenView profile

Researcher

• Digital Art
• Interaction Design
• Art Mediation
• +3 more

Christian Sivertsen is a Researcher at the IT University of Copenhagen, specializing in Data Science and Audio-Visual Computing. His work bridges digital aesthetics, interaction design, and art mediation, focusing on how technology shapes aesthetic experiences in art museums and AI-driven creative processes. He holds a PhD in Technology-based Mediation in the Art Museum (2024). Education: PhD in Technology-based Mediation (2024) His research interests include generative AI, embodied interaction, and the role of technology in art critique and museum visitor engagement. He has explored topics such as ambiguity in AI art, non-verbal mediation strategies, and reflexive use of generative AI systems. Recent projects include Technology-based Mediation in the Art Museum (2020–2023) and XTREME: Extended Reality Environment for Immersive Art and Music (2024–2026), funded by the Munch Museum and the European Commission. His work has been recognized with an Honourable Mention at DIS '23. Awards: Honourable Mention, DIS '23 (2023) He actively collaborates on projects blending academic research with applied design, such as developing immersive art experiences and critical frameworks for AI in creative contexts. His PhD thesis further explores technological mediation in museums, emphasizing visitor engagement through non-traditional methods.

Cumhur ErkutView profile

Associate Professor

• Virtual Reality
• Embodied Interaction
• Augmented Reality
• +4 more

Cumhur Erkut is an Associate Professor at Aalborg University's Department of Architecture, Design and Media Technology, part of The Technical Faculty of IT and Design. His work focuses on Embodied Interaction, Virtual Reality, and Sound and Music Computing. He leads the Multisensory Experience Laboratory and has contributed to projects like MAT-DYN-NET (mathematical modeling for network dynamics) and SooC (sound in urban environments). Research interests include sonic interactions in virtual environments, movement-sound relationships, and audio-based human-machine interaction. He has published over 100 articles, with recent work on AI-generated speech in VR, voice conversion algorithms, and multimodal improvisation systems. Awards include the 2018 Best Student Paper Award and a 2015 3D User Interface contest win. His editorial roles include co-editing the Journal of Somaesthetics and serving on the Audio Engineering Society board. Projects emphasize applied research in wearable tech, urban soundscapes, and interactive systems for health and creativity.

Peter VistisenView profile

Associate Professor

• User-Centered Innovation
• Design Thinking
• Digital Innovation
• +12 more

Peter Vistisen is an Associate Professor at the Department of Communication and Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Aalborg University, Denmark. His interdisciplinary work bridges information technology and the liberal arts, with a focus on user-centered innovation, digital media, and design thinking. He is affiliated with InDiMedia (Centre for Interactive Digital Media & Experience Design) and involved in the MASSHINE research initiative. His research interests include: User-centered innovation and design thinking Digital innovation and strategic design Animation and sketching as tools in the innovation process Metaverse and experience technologies AI for the People and ethical digital design Interactive digital media in everyday life His recent publications reflect a strong trend toward interdisciplinary research combining digital media, health communication, sustainability, and cultural storytelling. Key themes include the use of animation in health and climate communication, XR onboarding systems, museum metaverses, and the domestication of digital tools in everyday life. His work often involves collaborative, user-driven design and explores how emerging technologies can be made accessible and meaningful. Scientific awards include: Årets Underviser (Teacher of the Year), 2020 Årets Brøl: Best App/Mobile Website, 2014 MÆRKK Prize: Best Master’s Thesis, 2011 He actively supervises students and leads research projects in digital innovation, public engagement, and experience design. His grants and projects often involve cross-sector collaboration with healthcare, cultural institutions, and public organizations. He is involved in multiple research centers and initiatives, including InDiMedia and MASSHINE, and frequently contributes to academic conferences, workshops, and public media discussions on digital culture and design. Notable research teams and labs: InDiMedia (Centre for Interactive Digital Media & Experience Design) MASSHINE Collaborative projects with healthcare and cultural sectors

• Human-Computer Interaction
• 3D Printing
• Wearable Computing
• +3 more

Daniel Lee Ashbrook is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Copenhagen (DIKU). He specializes in Human-Centred Computing, focusing on tangible user interfaces, wearable technology, and computational fabrication. His work bridges hardware innovation with practical applications in interactive design. Research Themes : Embedded sensors, 3D-printed interactive systems, pneumatic computing, and accessible fabrication tools. Collaborations : Regularly works with researchers like Victor Savage and Hyeon-Jeong Kim on novel interface technologies. Recent publications highlight advancements in tactile feedback systems, multi-material fabrication, and sensor integration in everyday objects. His projects often combine physical and digital elements for intuitive user experiences. Key trends include democratizing hardware prototyping and enabling electronics-free interactivity. Awards : ISWC 2012 Best Papers Award. Contact : Email dan@di.ku.dk or call +45 53638312.

Axel AhrensView profile

Assistant Professor

• Virtual Reality
• Audiovisual Scene Analysis
• Speech Perception
• +7 more

Axel Ahrens is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Technology at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), specializing in Hearing Systems. His research focuses on audiovisual perception, virtual reality environments, and speech perception in complex acoustic scenes. He holds a PhD in audiology from DTU, completed between 2014 and 2019, under the supervision of Professor Torsten Dau. Key research areas include: Audio-visual scene analysis in virtual reality Spatial audio and sound localization Effects of noise on decision-making in group interactions Speech perception in multitalker environments Human behavior in reverberant acoustic settings Applications of beamformer technology in hearing aids Recent work emphasizes the interplay between auditory and visual cues in complex environments, with notable studies on how noise impacts triadic conversations and decision-making outcomes. He currently supervises PhD students in projects like 'Speech Intelligibility in Realistic Listening Environments' (2024-2027) and 'Interpersonal Temporal Dynamics of Group Interaction' (2023-2026). Ahrens actively contributes to academic activities, including peer reviewing for journals like Hearing Research and Journal of the Acoustical Society of America , and organizing workshops on communication dynamics. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and innovation. Labs/Teams: Hearing Systems Section at DTU Health Tech.

Zheng-Hua TanView profile

Professor

• Machine Learning
• Speech Processing
• Audio Signal Processing
• +7 more

Zheng-Hua Tan is a Full Professor of Machine Learning and Speech Processing at the Department of Electronic Systems, Aalborg University, Denmark. His research focuses on advanced signal processing techniques, including speech enhancement, audio representation learning, and applications in hearing aid technology. He leads the Artificial Intelligence and Sound group and has authored over 284 publications. His work spans machine learning, state-space models, and deep learning applications in audio-visual speech processing. Notable contributions include pioneering methods for noise-robust keyword spotting, diffusion-based speech enhancement, and adversarial attack defense in ASR systems. He also explores cross-modal audio captioning and generative models. His research extends to 6G radio sensing and energy optimization in CubeSats. Tan holds an ORCID identifier (0000-0001-6856-8928) and maintains active collaborations through international conferences like ICASSP and INTERSPEECH. His lab develops practical solutions for real-world audio challenges, including hearing assistance systems and low-latency voice activity detection. He supervised 15+ PhD students and has secured multiple grants for projects in AI-driven audio innovation. Current work emphasizes self-supervised learning, PAC-Bayesian theory for dynamical systems, and bi-level optimization in pretraining frameworks.

Emil Rosenlund HøegView profile

Researcher

• Virtual Reality
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Human-Computer Interaction
• +4 more

Emil Rosenlund Høeg is a Postdoctoral Researcher at Aalborg University , specifically within the Multisensory Experience Laboratory under the Department of Architecture and Media Technology . His work bridges Virtual Reality (VR) with rehabilitation engineering and educational technology, focusing on enhancing well-being through immersive experiences. Emil holds a PhD (2023) from Aalborg University, a M.Sc. in Medialogy (2017) , and a B.Sc. in Medialogy (2015) . His academic journey has been rooted in problem-based learning (PBL) and participatory design methodologies. Research interests span Virtual Reality-based rehabilitation for older adults and autistic children, exergame development , human-computer interaction , and motivation theory in health technology. Recent article trends emphasize VR hygiene protocols , social collaboration in therapeutic exergames, and extrinsic motivation frameworks for sustained rehabilitation engagement. Scientific achievements include a Best Paper Award (2019) . He serves as a journal referee for BMC Medical Informatics , ISA Transactions , and Virtual Reality , while participating in conferences like IEEE VR and ICDVRAT. Projects include the Telecyclette Initiative (Velux Foundation-funded) for elder rehabilitation, GAMESS for autism education, and Virtual Reality Hygiene Research . Media involvement covers Radio Nova commentary on META's Orion glasses and VR's societal impact.

Mads Walther-HansenView profile

Associate Professor

• Sound Cognition
• Music Production
• Music Entrepreneurship
• +3 more

Mads Walther-Hansen is an Associate Professor at Aalborg University's Department of Communication and Psychology within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. He leads the Music & Sound Knowledge Group (MASSHINE) and coordinates music studies, blending research in sound cognition with entrepreneurship in the music industry. Key Research Areas: Sound and music cognition, music production technology, and creative industry innovation Teaching: Sound analysis, music entrepreneurship, aesthetics, and history of popular music His research explores how sound qualities are conceptualized in music production, focusing on cognitive metaphors and sensory information processing. Recent work examines algorithmic prediction in music production and non-haptic interfaces for sonic interaction. Publications span interdisciplinary topics at the intersection of Sound Arts , Music Production , and Computer Science , emphasizing design frameworks and sensory information systems. His work often addresses practical applications for audio engineers and sound designers. Scientific Recognition: Årets underviser (2022) - Outstanding Educator Award from AAU's Study Council for Art, Health and Technology Association for Recorded Sound Collections Best Historical Research Prize (2021) Audio Mostly Conference Best Paper Award (2016) Active in conference presentations and industry collaborations, Walther-Hansen contributes to both academic discourse and practical innovation through projects like the Obel-musikprofessoratprojektet (2012-2019) and ongoing participation in Innovation in Music conferences.

Sami BrandtView profile

Professor

• Mathematical imaging
• Computer vision
• Machine learning
• +4 more

Sami Brandt is a Professor in Data Science and Machine Learning at the IT University of Copenhagen. Specializing in Audio-Visual Computing, they lead a research group focused on cutting-edge applications in computer vision, neural networks, and extended reality (XR). Their work bridges mathematical imaging with practical technological solutions. Research Interests: Latent Space Analysis in Diffusion Models Non-rigid Structure-from-Motion Techniques Human Motion Prediction and Smoothing Algorithms Tensor-based Methods for Emotion Recognition Metaverse Applications for Parkinson's Disease Therapies Scientific Awards: Best Student Paper Award (2022), 11th International Conference on Pattern Recognition Applications and Methods Projects: MotiVerseP (2024-2025): Motivation for movement therapies in a metaverse for Parkinson's disease XTREME (2024-2026): Extended Reality Environment for Immersive Experience of Art and Music