Bernd Ploderer

Dr Bernd Ploderer is an Associate Professor in the School of Computer Science at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), where he conducts research in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), focusing on health, wellbeing, and human-centred computing. He leads the Digital Wellbeing Lab and is actively involved in multiple Australian Competitive Grant-funded projects, including those on generative AI for self-care, tangible intergenerational interaction, and children's active play.

• Education: PhD in Human-Computer Interaction (University of Melbourne, 2011), MA in Communications (University of Salzburg, 2007), BSc (Hons) in Information Systems (FH Joanneum Graz, 2003)
• Previous Positions: Research Fellow and Lecturer at the University of Melbourne (2011–2015)
• Professional Recognition: Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, Graduate Certificate in Academic Practice (QUT, 2017)

Dr Ploderer’s research centers on designing interactive technologies that support personal and social wellbeing, with a strong emphasis on user-centered and co-design methods. His work spans domains such as digital self-care, mobile health, generative AI, tangible and embodied interaction, and intergenerational and child play. He has developed innovative educational methods in HCI, notably the ‘working field theories for design’ approach, which received an Honorable Mention at CHI 2021.

His recent publications (2023–2025) reflect a growing interest in AI-mediated self-care, nature-connected technologies, and inclusive design for diverse populations including teens, older adults, and individuals with disabilities. These works appear in top-tier venues such as CHI, DIS, and Personal and Ubiquitous Computing.

Dr Ploderer has received several awards, including:

• QUT Vice Chancellor's Performance Award (2016)
• PCHF Innovation Grant (2018)
• Metro North Hospital and Health Service Link Grant (2017)
• Honorable Mention at CHI 2021
• Associate Chair for Health Subcommittee at CHI 2022

He is actively involved in research supervision, currently mentoring PhD and Honours students on topics such as conversational agents for music education, mental wellbeing for international students, and relational technologies for dementia care. He has supervised numerous completed PhD and Masters theses, often in collaboration with Professor Margot Brereton and other QUT researchers. Dr Ploderer also contributes to research ethics and integrity within his school and serves on committees for CHI and CHISIG. His lab, the Digital Wellbeing Lab, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration focused on creating technology that enhances social, mental, and physical wellbeing.