Kelly Dern is a Lecturer in the Department of Advertising, Public Relations and Design at University of Colorado, while also serving as a Senior Product Designer and illustrator at Google. She leads the Video AI team, focusing on inclusive design for Google Workspace products like Meet and Duo, and contributes to design systems across Google Payments and Nest. Beyond Google, she advises Boost Thyroid app and ILLA, and co-founded the Old Girls Club think tank. 14+ years experience in product design Specializes in AI-driven inclusive design Advocate for women in tech Research interests center on inclusive design systems, AI-assisted creativity, and accessible UX for health technology. Her work emphasizes emotional design in wellness apps, ambiguity navigation frameworks, and scalable design processes through Figma variables. Recent publications explore AI productivity, modular type scales, and design under uncertainty. Her articles highlight practical applications in energy simulation, debt management systems, and chronic illness UI. Scientific contributions include: Google Product Excellence Award for Inclusive Design Works Advising & speaking includes teaching with Girls Who Code, advising Boost Thyroid, and keynotes at UXDX, SXC2023, and DesignOps Summit. She advocates for design ethics and cross-functional collaboration. Labs & teams include Google's Video AI team, Nest hardware team, and renewable energy design initiatives. She also mentors through platforms like Medium and LinkedIn, promoting design education and systems thinking.
**Dominik Bork** is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Business Informatics within the Faculty of Informatics at TU Wien. His core research focuses on conceptual modeling, model-driven engineering, and the integration of artificial intelligence into enterprise systems. He leads projects such as the Network Lab and has coordinated initiatives like the Automatisiertes End-to-End-Testen von Cloud-basierten Modellierungswerkzeugen and MFP 4.2 Advanced Analytics for Smart Manufacturing . His work emphasizes GLSP-based web modeling tools , including the development of open-source platforms like BIGUML for UML modeling. He has published extensively on topics like knowledge graph transformation, accessibility in modeling tools, and AI-enhanced decision management. Bork actively contributes to academic communities through conference organizing roles and guest editorial work for journals like Enterprise, Business-Process and Information Systems Modeling . His research bridges theoretical advancements with practical applications in enterprise architecture and sustainable systems engineering. Education & Background : Holds titles including Dipl.-Wirtsch.Inf.Univ. and Dr.rer.pol., reflecting his interdisciplinary expertise in business informatics and economics. Key Contributions : - Developed CM2KGcloud , a web-based platform for conceptual model-to-knowledge graph transformation. - Pioneered EA ModelSet , a FAIR dataset advancing machine learning in enterprise modeling. - Authored influential papers on inclusive conceptual modeling for disability-aware tools. - Led efforts in model-based construction of enterprise architecture knowledge graphs . Grants/Projects : Automatisiertes End-to-End-Testen von Cloud-basierten Modellierungswerkzeugen (Principal Investigator) Digital Platform Enterprise (Principal Investigator) MFP 4.2 Advanced Analytics for Smart Manufacturing (Principal Investigator) Labs/Teams : Active in the Network Lab at TU Wien, focusing on cutting-edge research in modeling technologies and AI integration.
Dr. Philip Langer is a researcher at TU Wien's Institut für Information Systems Engineering, part of the Faculty of Informatics. His work focuses on model-driven engineering, semantic model differencing, and cloud-based software modernization. He contributed to frameworks like GLSP, ARTIST, and xMOF, emphasizing tool integration and collaboration in modeling environments. Research Areas: Model transformation, UML semantics, cloud migration, and search-based optimization Key Projects: ARTIST (cloud migration), GLSP (web modeling tools), xMOF (formal semantics) Publications highlight advancements in model differencing using execution traces, multi-objective model merging (MOMM), and semantic visualization techniques for web-based IDEs. His work bridges theoretical foundations with practical tool development, addressing challenges in collaborative modeling and legacy system modernization. Awards: No specific prizes mentioned, but recognized through prolific conference contributions and framework development. Grants/Advising: He collaborates extensively with peers like Tanja Mayerhofer and Manuel Wimmer, though specific grants or student advisement details are not explicitly stated. His research impacts both academic and industrial software engineering practices.
Esko Ikkala is a Doctoral Candidate and Researcher at Aalto University's Department of Computer Science (School of Science). His work focuses on Linked Open Data, Semantic Web technologies, and their applications in Digital Humanities, Cultural Heritage informatics, and archaeological data management. He is actively involved in developing frameworks like Sampo-UI for semantic portal interfaces and has contributed to major projects such as WarSampo, FindSampo, and LawSampo, which integrate historical and legal data into knowledge graphs. His research bridges computer science with humanities, emphasizing data harmonization, citizen science, and semantic technologies for cultural heritage preservation. Key affiliations include the SeCo Research Group (Semantic Computing) at Aalto University, where he collaborates on projects like Mapping Manuscript Migrations and WarMemoirSampo. His educational background includes an M.Sc. (Tech) and ongoing doctoral studies in Computer Science, reflecting a strong foundation in both technical and humanities-oriented research. Research interests span semantic portals, ontology engineering, faceted search interfaces, and the application of AI techniques like NER for historical data enrichment. He has co-developed frameworks for managing archaeological finds (FindSampo), reassembling prisoner of war biographies, and visualizing parliamentary speeches through Linked Data. His work emphasizes sustainability, collaboration, and the democratization of access to cultural and historical data through open standards. Notable contributions include the Sampo-UI JavaScript framework, the WarSampo knowledge graph (with 14 million triples), and the FindSampo platform for archaeological citizen science. He has published extensively in venues like ISWC, ESWC, and Digital Humanities conferences, focusing on interdisciplinary applications of semantic technologies.
Heikki Rantala is a researcher at the Department of Computer Science, Aalto University, specializing in semantic web technologies and digital humanities. He is actively involved in developing knowledge graph-based systems for cultural heritage research, including projects like FindSampo, CoinSampo, and OperaSampo. His work focuses on integrating historical datasets, creating semantic portals, and enabling faceted search in cultural heritage domains. Rantala holds an MSc in Computer Science from the University of Helsinki (2019) and has contributed to over 50 peer-reviewed publications since 2018. Key Projects: FindSampo: Analyzes archaeological finds using linked open data CoinSampo: Numismatic data portal for historical currency analysis BiographySampo: Biographical knowledge graph for historical人物研究 ParliamentSampo: Parliamentary data system for legislative analysis Research Interests: His work spans semantic web frameworks, digital humanities infrastructure, and historical data modeling. He emphasizes interoperability through ontology development and user-centric semantic portals. Technical Expertise: SPARQL endpoint integration, faceted search systems, knowledge graph construction, and cross-domain data harmonization. His tools like Sampo-UI provide reusable frameworks for semantic portal development. Grants & Collaborations: Active in EU-funded initiatives like FIN-CLARIAH and international projects with organizations such as the National Library of Finland and cultural heritage institutions.
Dr. Jozef Goetz is a Professor of Computer Science at the University of La Verne, affiliated with the College of Arts and Sciences. His work focuses on software engineering, cybersecurity, educational technology, and mobile applications. He has contributed to systems such as course management frameworks, geospatial meteorology tools, and expert systems for academic advising. Dr. Goetz has also explored mobile application performance optimization and cross-platform development strategies. Research interests span from foundational areas like concurrency modeling using Petri Nets to applied domains such as CRM systems and e-commerce validation. His projects emphasize practical implementations addressing real-world challenges in education, security, and enterprise software development.
Michael Bernard Twidale is a Professor and Interim Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs at the School of Information Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He holds a PhD in Computing from Lancaster University (UK) and is affiliated with the National Center for Supercomputing Applications and the Information Trust Institute. His research focuses on HCI, CSCW, and sociotechnical systems with emphasis on collaborative technologies, user interface design, and agile research methods. Teaching excellence is central to his career, having won the 2017 ASIS&T Outstanding Information Science Teacher Award and consistently appearing on UIUC’s “excellent in teaching” lists since 1998. He has pioneered courses in Entrepreneurial IT Design and Museum Informatics, emphasizing design thinking and societal impact. Current research projects explore metaphors in voice user interfaces, search literacy, and long-term database sustainability. He advocates for "Agile Research Methods" to democratize knowledge production and improve technology accessibility. Over 25 years of academic work include leadership roles in CHI, iConference, and JCDL, plus collaborative initiatives with museums and open-source communities. His work bridges theory and practice through projects like the ARIADNE Collaborative Browsing Project and the Information Forum for knowledge-sharing infrastructures. Recent explorations include cultural informatics with community music archives and rethinking metadata for inclusive data practices.
Sean Follmer is an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and courtesy faculty in Computer Science at Stanford University. He leads the Stanford Shape Lab and is affiliated with the Stanford HCI Group and Design Program. His research focuses on human-computer interaction, haptics, and human-robot interaction, emphasizing tactile interfaces and shape-changing robotics to enhance accessibility and collaboration. Education: PhD and MEng (2015/2011) from MIT Media Lab, BS in Engineering (Product Design focus) from Stanford. He has received prestigious awards including the NSF CAREER Award and Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship, alongside 17 best paper awards across UIST/CHI conferences. Research spans tangible user interfaces, haptic interaction, accessible design for visually impaired users, and robotics. Notable projects include 3D shape displays, tactile data visualization tools, and swarm robotics for haptics. His work has been showcased globally at museums like the Smithsonian Cooper Hewitt and Milan Design Week. Labs/Teams: Directs the Shape Lab, collaborating with Stanford HCI Group. His lab develops prototypes like shape-shifting tables and deformable interfaces, prioritizing iterative prototyping and human-centered design principles.
Björn Hartmann is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) at the University of California, Berkeley . His research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) , Artificial Intelligence (AI) , and Programming Systems , with a particular emphasis on tools for design, end-user programming, and crowdsourcing systems. He is affiliated with the Berkeley Institute of Design , Jacobs Institute for Design Innovation , and CITRIS , where he explores embodied cognition in AR/VR environments through systems research. Education: Ph.D., Computer Science, Stanford University (2009) MSE, Computer and Information Science, University of Pennsylvania (2002) BSE/B.A., Digital Media Design/Communication, University of Pennsylvania (2001) His research spans creating interactive systems like 3D scene editors , crowdsourced feedback platforms , and AI-driven design tools , often combining controlled experiments with systems research . Recent publications highlight LLM applications in code design, VR-based creative workflows, and ethical frameworks for AI in art-making. His work has earned NSF CAREER and Sloan Research fellowships, as well as Best Paper awards at UIST and CHI. Key scientific contributions include developing methodologies for interactive vector graphics , asymmetric communication in VR , and AI-assisted UI feedback . He has also led educational initiatives such as the Berkeley Certificate in Design Innovation and courses like CS 160 and CS 260A .
Wei Yang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Texas at Dallas, working within the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science. He holds a regular faculty position with an office in ECSS 4.225 and is actively engaged in teaching, research, and mentoring graduate students. His academic journey spans multiple prestigious institutions, and he currently serves on editorial boards for major software engineering journals. Dr. Yang received his Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2018, advised by Prof. Carl A. Gunter and Prof. Tao Xie. He earned his M.S. in Computer Science from North Carolina State University in 2013 under Prof. Tao Xie, and his B.E. in Software Engineering from Shanghai Jiao Tong University in 2011 under Prof. Jianjun Zhao. He was also a visiting researcher at the University of California, Berkeley, invited by Prof. Dawn Song. Dr. Yang's research spans multiple cutting-edge areas at the intersection of software engineering and security. His primary focus centers on software engineering for AI systems , particularly addressing challenges in deploying AI on edge devices like mobile phones, IoT devices, and autonomous vehicles. His pioneering work on efficiency robustness (initiated in 2019) explores how different inputs can trigger varying computational costs in neural networks, leading to novel attacks and defenses. He also develops infrastructure support for AI deployment , including compiler toolchains for dynamic-shaped neural networks and security analysis for IoT deployments. His research extends to mobile testing (since 2012), malware detection using expectation context analysis, and intelligent tools for software engineers and security researchers. Dr. Yang's publication record demonstrates a clear trajectory toward addressing critical challenges in AI security and efficiency. His recent work shows increasing focus on foundation models, large language models, and their security implications, while maintaining strong connections to practical software engineering challenges. The publications reveal a consistent pattern of high-impact research in top-tier venues across software engineering, AI, and security domains. NSF CAREER Award (2022) ACM SIGSOFT Distinguished Paper Award (2021) Amazon Research Award Dr. Yang actively mentors a large group of graduate and undergraduate students, with several PhD students currently working under his supervision. He serves as a faculty advisor for the ASTRO (AI Security and Trustworthiness Operations) team, which was selected as a red teaming participant in the Amazon Nova AI Challenge. His research is supported by significant grants, including the NSF CAREER award providing approximately $500,000 over five years. He emphasizes practical student development, helping them navigate the job market and transition from academic training to professional careers. Dr. Yang leads a vibrant research group focused on software engineering and security challenges in AI systems. His team, including the ASTRO group participating in the Amazon Nova AI Challenge, develops innovative techniques for testing, securing, and improving AI-based systems. The research environment fosters collaboration across multiple domains, with students working on projects ranging from mobile security to foundation model engineering.
Dr. Maylis Saigot is a Lecturer in Business Information Systems at the School of Business , University of Queensland. Her research bridges psychology and digital technologies to examine affective dynamics in digitalized work environments. Academic Rank: Lecturer Institution: University of Queensland Research School: School of Business Maylis Saigot's research focuses on: Digital technologies' impact on emotional dynamics in collaboration Datastress in non-data roles Technorelief for neurodiverse populations UI design effects on team performance Recent publications analyze circadian rhythms in social media sharing, psychophysiological aspects of online creativity, and neurodiverse collaboration enhancement through digital capabilities. Her work employs mixed methods including social media analytics, lab experiments with psychophysiological measures, and qualitative interviews. Supervision opportunities include: Investigating Media Affectivity and UI Design in Digital Collaboration Managing Datastress in Non-Data Job Roles Exploring Technorelief for Neurodiverse Populations
Joaseph Aneke is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Hampton University (2023–present). His research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction, Cybersecurity, and Usable Privacy. Education: Ph.D. in Computer Science (University of Bari, Italy, 2022), MEng in Electronic Engineering (University of Nigeria Nsukka, 2013), B.Sc. in Computer Science (Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, 2007). His work addresses phishing prevention through intelligent user interfaces, warning message design, and personality-driven security interventions. Publications span conferences like HCII, INTERACT, and AfriCHI, with a focus on bridging security and user experience. Recent research also explores IoT systems for rural African healthcare, balancing technical effectiveness with contextual constraints. Key trends in his publications include: Phishing defense via human-centered design (2019–2022) IOT applications in healthcare (2018) Wireless LAN optimization (2010)
Željka Car is a Professor at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) , University of Zagreb, Croatia. She serves as Head of the Department of Telecommunications and focuses on research in telecommunications, software engineering, and human-computer interaction. Research Interests : Accessibility in digital systems, augmented reality, assistive technology, serious games for education, machine learning applications, network reliability, and project management. Teaching : Leads courses in project management and software development methodologies. Projects : Involved in developing ICT-AAC applications for children with developmental disabilities, VR/AR tools for military and educational use, and software process improvement frameworks. Publications highlight trends in accessible software design, gesture-based interfaces, and integration of emerging technologies with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems.
Heather Ford is the Acting Chair of UI/UX User Experience Design and an Assistant Professor at Bradley University’s Slane College of Communications and Fine Arts. She coordinates the User Experience Program within the Department of Interactive Media, where she integrates fine art and digital design methodologies into academic and commercial projects. Education B.F.A. in Visual Communications from the Illinois Institute of Art M.F.A. in Visual Communications from Bradley University Research Interests Her work focuses on user-centered design strategies, emphasizing user interface/experience (UI/UX) principles applied to websites, mobile applications, branding, animation, and product design. She explores interdisciplinary approaches that combine typography, printmaking, animation, and graphic design with human-centered experiences in digital environments. Grants & Collaborations Primary Investigator and User Experience Design Lead on the U.S. Air Force Grant Project: Virtual Augmented Reality Readiness project (multi-year, collaborative effort with the University of Dayton Research Institute and Air Force). Professional Experience With over 20 years of experience, she has worked with Fortune 500 clients such as Disney, Nike, and NASA, applying User-Centered Design (UCD) methodologies. She has also contributed to multicultural and academic UX research initiatives.
Dr. Nasrin Dehbozorgi is an Assistant Professor of Software Engineering at the College of Computing and Software Engineering, Kennesaw State University (KSU), where she directs the AIET Lab. With a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and prior industry experience as a Software Engineer and IT Manager, she bridges academic research and practical application. Affiliation: College of Computing and Software Engineering, KSU Academic Rank: Assistant Professor Email: dnasrin@kennesaw.edu Lab: AIET Lab (https://aiet.kennesaw.edu) Research Focus: Dr. Dehbozorgi pioneers the intersection of AI and educational innovation, leveraging Machine Learning (ML), Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Large Language Models (LLMs) to develop adaptive educational systems. Her work emphasizes Computational Thinking, Recommender Systems, and Affective Computing, aiming to enhance student success through soft skills training and curriculum modernization. Key Projects: As Principal Investigator (PI) for the 'Student Success' initiative at KSU, she integrates technological skills into curricula while supporting faculty development. Her research spans physiological monitoring (e.g., EEG, HRV), AI-driven discourse analysis, and AI ethics in education. Teaching: She instructs graduate courses such as Software Architecture , Requirements Engineering , and Computational Thinking , with a focus on active learning and practical software engineering.
