Alaster Yoxall

Alaster Yoxall is a Principal Research Fellow in Human Centered Engineering at Sheffield Hallam University, affiliated with the Art Design and Media Research Centre and Culture and Creativity Research Institute. His research focuses on inclusive design principles for packaging accessibility, particularly for older adults and disabled users. He contributed to international standards like ISO 17480 and CEN15945, and collaborates with industry/healthcare sectors to improve packaging usability. Current research areas include NHS packaging protocols, dexterity assessment, and ergonomic tableware design.

His expertise spans biomechanical modeling, usability testing, and co-design with end-users. He has extensive experience in developing methodologies for measuring human capabilities (e.g., torque strength, dexterity) and translating these into practical design solutions. Notable projects include analyzing cup accessibility in care homes, developing the Variable Dexterity Test, and studying finger motion coordination during packaging interactions.

Recent work emphasizes healthcare packaging optimization and assistive cutlery for arthritis sufferers. He supervises PhD projects on topics like thin-film peel strength and dexterity analysis, employing methods such as eye-tracking, motion capture, and high-speed video analysis.

Publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches combining engineering, psychology, and healthcare perspectives. Over 100 peer-reviewed articles demonstrate his contributions to packaging science, ergonomics, and inclusive design methodologies.