James Agutter is an Associate Professor at the University of Utah's School of Architecture, with research focusing on information visualization in healthcare and cybersecurity. He serves as Director of the Spark Design Initiative and Bachelor of University Studies. His work has produced patents in medical device design and software tools like eSNAP and HAIL-CAT. University of Utah, School of Architecture (2016–present) Research Assistant Professor (2000–2011) Director roles in design programs and undergraduate studies Research interests span healthcare systems, design informatics, and technology solutions for clinical environments. Key publications explore aging in pandemic contexts, ICU alarm management, and infusion pump interfaces. Awards include the 2016 Distinguished Innovation and Impact Award and 2014 Beacon of Excellence. 2024: Pandemic adaptations in aging environments 2023: eSNAP caregiver support tool 2021: Anesthesia pharmacology visualization 2018–2011: ICU display design, wearable clinical aids Scientific honors include: 2005 Creative Achievement Award (ACSA) 2005 AIA Top Ten Research Program 2016 University of Utah Distinguished Innovation Award
Joanna McGrenere is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of British Columbia . Her research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction , Personalized User Interfaces , and Universal Usability , particularly for older adults and users with aphasia . She has extensively published on cross-device learnability , collaborative environments , and adaptive interface design . Research Interests: Human-Computer Interaction Personalized User Interfaces Universal Usability Interactive Technologies for Aging Populations Recent Publications address: real-time feedback in online meetings (2025), AI support for interviews (2025), financial technology for older adults (2025), ambient social systems (2025), computer-mediated self-disclosure (2025), digital home health assessments (2024), and intergenerational VR communication (2024). Key trends show increasing focus on age-inclusive design , context-aware interfaces , and interruption management . Collaborations include: Leah Findlater (University of Washington), Andrea Bunt (University of Manitoba), Karyn Moffatt (McGill University), and Kellogg S. Booth (University of British Columbia). Her work appears in journals like ACM Transactions on Accessible Computing and International Journal of Human-Computer Studies .
Luis Velez Quintero is an Assistant Professor at Stockholm University within the Department of Computer and Systems Sciences (DSV) . He is affiliated with the Data Science Research Group and the Stockholm Technology & Interaction Research (STIR) group, focusing on Human–Computer Interaction. His research spans adaptive immersive systems, affective computing, and physiological signal analysis in extended reality (XR) environments. Education & Background : Holds a PhD in Computer and Systems Sciences from Stockholm University (2023), MSc in Health Informatics from Karolinska Institutet (2019), and BSc in Electronics Engineering from the National University of Colombia (2015). He has led the startup PortalSense since 2018, developing VR solutions for real estate visualization. Research Interests : Combines data science and ML with XR technologies to create context-aware systems for healthcare, education, and professional training. Key themes include: Adaptive VR/AR systems using real-time physiological and behavioral signals Biosignal integration for personalized user experiences Immersive technologies for cognitive assessment and skill development Publications : Over 20 peer-reviewed articles, including work on affective databases (AVDOS-VR), biosignal frameworks (Excite-O-Meter), and XR applications in cybersecurity education. Recent efforts explore third-person locomotion in VR and early-stage Alzheimer’s detection via spatial navigation tasks. Awards & Grants : Wallenberg Foundation Grant (2023-2025): Analyzing non-verbal communication in psychotherapy Swedish Institute Scholarship (2017-2019): Fully funded Master’s and PhD studies Seed funding for PortalSense from Fondo Emprender SENA Colombia (2022-2023) Advising & Projects : Lead researcher in projects like AVDOS-VR and CS:NO . Co-designed the Excite-O-Meter open-source plugin for real-time physiological analysis in VR. Active in industry collaborations for scalable health interventions and immersive training systems. Labs & Teams : Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams at STIR and DSV, advancing human-centered AI and adaptive XR technologies.
Adam Palmquist is a Professor at Nord University, leading the HABIT research group focused on human-centered AI, behavior analytics, and technology design. He holds a PhD in Applied Information Technology for Learning and specializes in gamification, learning analytics, VR games, and organizational learning dynamics. His work bridges academia and industry, addressing real-world challenges through cross-disciplinary collaboration. Education: PhD in Applied Information Technology for Learning. Research Interests: Palmquist’s research explores gamification’s role in lifelong learning, AI integration in education, and VR game development. He investigates how generative AI, learning analytics, and game mechanics enhance engagement and motivation. His studies on group processes in workplace learning highlight frameworks for effective organizational learning systems. Current Projects: GOAL: Uses gamification to train leadership in crisis scenarios, funded by the University of Borås. ETUS: Enhances game research via eye-tracking and analytics, funded by Nord University. BiP: Studies remote-first VR game development methodologies, funded by Erasmus+. Scientific Affiliations: Member of the University of Gothenburg’s research team, steering committee for the Design Society’s Data Informed Design group, and the Swedish Game Researcher Council. Grants & Advising: Active in Nordic and international collaborations, including the Norwegian Centre for Excellence in IT Education (EXCITED). Supervises Izabella Jedel’s PhD on gamification in higher education. Labs/Teams: Heads HABIT, which integrates experts from Journalism, Games, Business, and Social Work to develop innovative tech solutions.
Meghalee Das is an Assistant Professor in the School of Writing, Rhetoric and Technical Communication at James Madison University (JMU). She joined JMU in 2024 and holds a Ph.D. in Technical Communication and Rhetoric from Texas Tech University (2024), an MBA from Texas State University (2016), and multiple master's degrees in Technical Communication and English. Her research focuses on user experience design, intercultural communication, and digital rhetoric with an emphasis on equity and inclusion in global technical communication contexts. Professional Affiliations: Society for Technical Communication (STC), ACM Her research explores themes like UX design for international audiences, diversity in banking communications, and online instructional strategies for marginalized communities. Notable projects include studies on Reddit's r/wallstreetbets community and usability testing for university international offices. She has published in top journals like IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication and Technical Communication, and contributed textbook chapters on intercultural communication and UX methodologies. Das's work bridges technical communication theory with practical applications in education and industry. Her recent studies analyze how cultural inclusivity impacts user experiences in global contexts, particularly for non-native English speakers and international students. She advocates for equitable design practices in both academic and corporate settings. Her publications reflect interdisciplinary collaboration, often addressing contemporary challenges like remote UX research during the pandemic and leveraging social media for tactical organizing. Her scholarship emphasizes ethical considerations in technical communication across digital platforms. No scientific awards are explicitly listed in her profile. She advises on programmatic initiatives related to graduate student experiences and has contributed to grant-funded projects exploring instructional design in hybrid learning environments.
Dr. Gavin Sim is a Reader in Human Computer Interaction at the University of Central Lancashire's School of Computing, Engineering and Physical Sciences. His research focuses on Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and Child Computer Interaction, emphasizing participatory design, usability evaluations, and serious games. He explores how technologies can be designed collaboratively with children for contexts like education, health, and gaming. Notable work includes studies on cross-cultural serious game design (e.g., Uganda-UK collaboration), heuristic evaluation methodologies for educational tools, and ethical frameworks for child participation in research. Sim also teaches undergraduate and postgraduate courses, integrating practical and theoretical insights into HCI practices. His contributions span academic publications on child-centred ethics, evaluation tools like the CHUX Toolkit, and frameworks such as CHECk for ethical design processes. He actively engages in global HCI conferences and initiatives, advocating for inclusive and ethical technology development.
Dr. Cathy Risdon is Professor and Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at McMaster University's Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine. With over 30 years of experience in the Department of Family Medicine, she aims to reinvigorate a sustainable, inclusive learning and practice environment for current and future family medicine learners and providers. She previously served as the first holder of the David Braley-Nancy Gordon Endowed Chair in Family Medicine and as Associate Chair, Academic within the Department, as well as co-lead for the McMaster Family Health Team. Dr. Risdon completed her medical training at McMaster University (class of '92) and later earned a Doctorate of Management in Organizational Change from the University of Hertfordshire. Her doctoral research explored themes of excellence and improvisation within curriculum design and implementation. Dr. Risdon's research focuses on primary care innovation, interprofessional collaboration, and health system integration. She has co-created the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine's Professional Competency Curriculum, teaching professionalism, communication skills, advocacy, ethics and reflective practice. Her expertise includes curriculum development, facilitation, and improving team dynamics in healthcare settings. She has conducted training and consultations across North America for primary care and community-based agencies. Her recent work centers on the Health TAPESTRY program for older adults, polypharmacy management, and transgender healthcare. Fellow of the Academy of Communications in Healthcare (one of only three Canadians) First holder of the David Braley-Nancy Gordon Endowed Chair in Family Medicine Dr. Risdon's clinical practice has focused on serving vulnerable populations in inner-city settings. She has been instrumental in designing and delivering the successful Hamilton Health Team submission and is considered an expert in health system integration and primary care. She has co-developed the Health TAPESTRY program, which focuses on promoting person-focused primary healthcare for older adults through interprofessional teams.
Allegra Smith is an Assistant Professor in the School of Literature, Media, and Communication (LMC) at Georgia Tech. Her research focuses on technical and professional communication, emphasizing how identity intersects with technology use, particularly addressing equity and accessibility for marginalized groups. She holds a PhD in Rhetoric and Composition from Purdue University and previously taught at Jacksonville State University, where she received the Campus Technology Award for innovative pedagogy. Education: PhD, Rhetoric and Composition, Purdue University MA, Digital Rhetoric and Professional Writing, Michigan State University BA, Professional Writing and Women's & Gender Studies, Michigan State University Research Interests: Dr. Smith examines aging and technology through digital rhetoric, feminist methodologies, and disability studies. Her work critiques design practices to ensure inclusive experiences for older adults and advocates for justice-centered pedagogy in technical communication. She has published in Technical Communication , SIGDOC , and Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice . Teaching & Grants: Recipient of Georgia Tech's Class of 1940 Teaching Award (2025) Developed a digital studio course award-winning for its industry collaboration model Secured grants from the Ivan Allen College and Alabama Commission on Higher Education Awards: 2025: CIOS Award for LMC 3813 (Content Strategy) 2024: CIOS Award for LMC 3206 (Communication & Culture) 2022: Hugh Burns Best Dissertation Award Labs & Initiatives: Leads projects on UX design for older adults and collaborates with industry partners to bridge classroom and workplace technical communication practices. Her courses include Content Strategy and Communication & Culture .
Lizbeth Olivia Escobedo Bravo is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Computer Science at Dalhousie University, where she conducts research at the intersection of Human-Computer Interaction, Ubiquitous Computing, and Cognitive Assistive Technology. Her work focuses on developing and evaluating technology to improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations, particularly children with autism, pregnant women, and individuals with cognitive disabilities. Her educational background includes a BS and PhD from Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC), an MSc from Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada (CICESE), and a postdoctoral fellowship in Biomedical Informatics at UC San Diego. BS – Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC) PhD – Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC) MSc – Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada (CICESE) Postdoc – University of California, San Diego (Biomedical Informatics) Her research interests include Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Ubiquitous Computing, Cognitive Assistive Technology (CAT), Mobile Technologies, Accessible Computing, and Children-Computer Interaction. She emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration across computer science, psychology, education, medicine, and design. The 15 most recent articles reflect a consistent focus on assistive technologies for neurodevelopmental and cognitive challenges. Key themes include early detection of developmental delays (ActEarly), handwriting assessment (PenSando), autism support (MOBIS, MOSOCO, FarmerKeeper, SATORI), maternal health (PREGO), and ADHD assistance (SmarTasko). These works span mobile, augmented reality, and sensor-based systems, with strong emphasis on usability, accessibility, and real-world deployment across diverse cultural and economic contexts. Scientific contributions and recognitions include: Active research leadership in multiple assistive technology projects Interdisciplinary collaborations with institutions such as Georgia Tech, UC Irvine, UC San Diego, MSU, Chapman University, and CREATE-NET Industry partnerships with IMSS, Pasitos A.C., ClubLia Kinder, EdNinja Inc., and others Focus on technology for social good and inclusive design She is actively involved in mentoring and advising, currently recruiting PhD and Master’s students for her research group. Her work has been supported through academic and industry collaborations, though specific grants are not listed. She previously worked in the software industry as a project manager and COO, bringing leadership experience to her academic role. Lizbeth leads a dynamic research lab focused on developing and deploying accessible, user-centered technologies. Her team works on projects such as ActEarly, PenSando, and SATORI, often involving cross-border studies and community engagement. The lab emphasizes real-world impact, ethical design, and scalability of solutions, particularly for underserved populations in Latin America and North America.
Paula Memenga is a Research Assistant at the University of Erfurt , specifically within the Department of Journalism and Communication Research . She holds a Master’s degree in Health Communication and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Science from the same university. Her work focuses on health communication , with particular emphasis on digital health information services , online information behavior , and media use in health contexts . Her recent publications and conference presentations explore topics such as telemedicine , genetic counseling , and physician-patient digital interaction . She is actively involved in third-party projects like DigiCare , Krebsprävention im Dialog , and OnkoRiskNET (Medical University of Hanover), focusing on improving health communication through digital tools and interdisciplinary collaboration. Memenga is a member of the International Communication Association (ICA) , European Communication Research and Education Association (ECREA) , and German Society of Mass Communication (DGPuK) . Key projects : OnkoRiskNET (telemedicine for genetic tumor risk), DigiCare (digital health literacy), Krebsprävention im Dialog (live chat for cancer prevention). Conference participation : ICA, ECREA, DGPuK, European Conference on Health Communication (ECHC), European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG), German Cancer Congress (DKK).
Gulsen Tore Yargin serves as Senior Lecturer in Design and Innovation Strategy at Brunel Design School within Brunel University London's College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences. Previously, she held Assistant Professor of Industrial Design position at Middle East Technical University where she directed the METU/BILTIR-UTEST Product Usability Unit. Her academic journey includes postdoctoral research at University of Cambridge Engineering Design Centre following a PhD focused on user research communication methodologies. PhD: Effective Communication of User Research Findings (University of Cambridge postdoctoral work) Postdoc: Engineering Design Centre, University of Cambridge Assistant Professor: Middle East Technical University (Industrial Design) Dr. Tore Yargin's research spans human-centered design in emerging technologies with emphasis on UX research methods, conversational agents, sensor-based innovations, and wellbeing design. Her work bridges academic theory with industry applications across white goods, home electronics, automotive, and defense sectors. Recent publications demonstrate methodological innovation in remote research during crises, animal-computer interaction, and voice interface design for diverse populations. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals strong interdisciplinary trends connecting design theory with psychology, animal behavior, and public health. Key thematic clusters include pandemic-adapted research methodologies (2020-2023), animal laterality studies (2023-2024), and conversational agent design for elderly populations (2023). Her work consistently applies human-centered principles to novel contexts while developing new measurement frameworks. No scientific awards are currently documented in available sources. Dr. Tore Yargin has secured multiple research grants including TÜBİTAK-funded projects on remote UX research during COVID-19 and canine stress behavior analysis, plus industry collaborations with Arcelik-Beko on voice interfaces. Her co-author network spans veterinary science, psychology, and design fields including Dr. Dominik Havsteen-Franklin and Dr. Cristina Asenjo Palma. Current projects focus on technology-mediated human-canine interactions and remote research methodologies. Her research operates through interdisciplinary collaborations rather than dedicated physical labs, with emphasis on field-based studies in domestic and public settings. Current work explores canine wellbeing through non-invasive measurement techniques and voice interface adoption in emerging markets.
Sara Czaja is a Professor of Gerontology in Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine's College of Medicine, where she directs the Center on Aging and Behavioral Research and co-directs the ENHANCE Center. Her work bridges aging research, technology integration, and caregiver support. Aging and Cognition Healthcare Informatics Human-Computer Interaction Functional Assessment Her recent publications focus on technology adoption for aging populations, cognitive training tools, and caregiver interventions. Grants include NIA-funded CREATE and ACL-supported ENHANCE initiatives. Scientific awards include: Fellow, American Psychological Association Fellow, Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Fellow, Gerontological Society of America She leads multisite collaborations and has developed digital platforms for dementia caregivers and cognitive assessment tools.
Michael B. Chamunorwa is a Research and Design Engineer and PhD candidate at the University of Oldenburg's Department of Computing Science (School II), specializing in Media Informatics and Multimedia Systems. His research focuses on designing user interfaces embedded in everyday objects for smart home control, exploring embodied interaction and repurposing household items as smart home interfaces. He holds a Bachelor of Technology in Software Engineering and a Master's in Computer Science from the Namibia University of Science and Technology. Michael has taught as a tutor and project supervisor in courses such as 'Experiments and Studies' and 'Makers’ Lab - Things that Think', supervising projects like 'Rich Interactive Materials for Everyday Objects in the Home'. His work bridges theoretical research with practical applications, including developing tools for cultural preservation with marginalized communities in Namibia. Key research areas include tangible user interfaces, embodied interaction, and smart home systems. His projects often involve collaborations with industry-standard frameworks and have been published in venues like ACM International Conference on Mobile and Ubiquitous Multimedia (MUM) and Interactive Surfaces and Spaces. Michael's current PhD project investigates secondary affordances of everyday objects to enhance smart home user experiences. He has contributed to open-source tools like the 'Popup Observation Kit' for remote usability testing and the 'Sweet Spots' AR platform for interaction area visualization. He has been actively involved in the Virtual and Augmented Reality Lab (inf174) and the Makers’ Lab, emphasizing hands-on innovation in technology design. His work reflects a commitment to both academic rigor and real-world societal impact through technology.
Aaron Seitz is a Professor of Psychology at Northeastern University, affiliated with the Bouvé College of Health Sciences and College of Arts, Media and Design. His academic background includes a BA in theoretical mathematics, a PhD in computational neuroscience, and postdoctoral work in systems neuroscience and neuroimaging. His research focuses on understanding cognitive processes like learning, memory, and perception, with an emphasis on translational applications such as perceptual learning interventions and gamified cognitive training. He directs the Brain Game Center for Mental Fitness and Well-being, developing mobile tools to assess and enhance cognitive function in diverse populations. Seitz’s work spans neurotypical individuals, clinical populations (e.g., schizophrenia, Parkinson’s), and specialists like radiologists. Key projects include visual remediation for vision loss, auditory processing assessments, and gamified interventions for aging populations. His research integrates methods from psychophysics, neuroimaging, computational modeling, and clinical trials. Recent studies explore applications in esports prediction, bilingual auditory processing, and neuroplasticity mechanisms linked to locus coeruleus integrity. Publications highlight advancements in perceptual learning frameworks (e.g., PLFest platform), adaptive testing methods (e.g., adaptive scan approach), and remote assessment tools (e.g., Portable Automated Rapid Testing). Collaborations emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, combining neuroscience with engineering and public health to address real-world challenges like cognitive decline and accessibility.
Dahlia Kairy is an Associate Professor at the School of Rehabilitation, University of Montreal, with a focus on telerehabilitation , virtual reality , and innovative rehabilitation technologies . She leads interdisciplinary research through affiliations with the CRIR (Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation), INTER (Interactive Technologies in Rehabilitation), and REPAR networks. Education: Physiotherapy graduate from McGill University (1997) Clinical experience: Specialized in vestibular and balance disorders since 2005 Her research explores implementation strategies for technology-driven rehabilitation, emphasizing health equity and knowledge translation . Recent work investigates AI integration , smart mobility devices , and virtual care policy development . Academic contributions include 15+ peer-reviewed publications and numerous funded projects from organizations like CIHR, FRQS, and AGE-WELL NCE. Key awards include: Royal Society of Canada College membership (2021) Fortissimo Jeune Chercheur Award (2018) She has supervised 7+ graduate students and co-led multidisciplinary grants totaling millions in funding. Current projects focus on metaverse-era rehabilitation , precision rehabilitation , and AI ethics in healthcare delivery.
