Amy Hurst

Amy Hurst is an Associate Professor at New York University (NYU) with a joint appointment in the Occupational Therapy Department at the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development and the Technology, Culture and Society Department at the Tandon School of Engineering. She directs the NYU Ability Project, an interdisciplinary initiative focused on disability and technology, and is part of the Center for Responsible AI. Her research emphasizes human-centered computing, assistive technology, and accessibility, with a focus on empowering marginalized groups through DIY fabrication and inclusive design.

Education:

• PhD in Human-Computer Interaction (Carnegie Mellon University, 2010)
• BS in Computer Science (Georgia Institute of Technology, 2004)

Research Interests: Dr. Hurst’s work spans accessibility challenges, assistive technology design, and participatory methods with end-users. She explores how accessible tools can democratize technology creation for people with disabilities, particularly through nonvisual design workflows, tactile graphics, and adaptive interfaces. Recent projects include live coding accessibility for mixed-vision ensembles and neurodiversity-affirming STEM programs for autistic youth.

Key Contributions:

• Developed SoundCells, a browser-based music notation tool for braille users
• Advocated for inclusive museum accessibility via DIY fabrication (e.g., 3D-printed tactile maps)
• Pioneered youth employment programs integrating adaptive technology training

Labs & Collaborations: As director of the Ability Project, she fosters cross-disciplinary teams addressing disability through technology. The Center for Responsible AI aligns her work with ethical AI applications. Past roles include Associate Professor at UMBC (2010–2018), where she led Human-Centered Computing graduate programs.