Jacqueline Bailey

Dr. Jacqueline Bailey is a Lecturer in Computing and Information Technology at the University of Newcastle, Australia, specializing in Mobile App Development within the School of Information and Physical Sciences, part of the College of Engineering, Science and Environment. Her work focuses on human-centered computing with particular emphasis on avatars and immersive technologies for serious applications beyond entertainment.

• PhD in Information Technology, University of Newcastle
• Bachelor of Information Technology (Honours), University of Newcastle

Dr. Bailey's research centers on human-avatar interactions, particularly examining the uncanny valley phenomenon, gender differences in avatar perception, and the use of virtual and augmented reality for serious gaming applications in healthcare, military, and education sectors. Her work employs quantitative analysis of human perceptions, often using the human startle reflex as a measure of affective processing. She also investigates mobile interface design for older users through the Older Persons Mode (OPM) project.

Analysis of Dr. Bailey's publication record reveals a consistent focus on avatar perception, with particular attention to gender differences and the uncanny valley effect. Her research has evolved from foundational studies on avatar facial fidelity to more complex investigations incorporating biofeedback and AI in XR training scenarios. The work demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections between computer science, cognitive psychology, and human factors engineering.

• 2024 Industry Engagement (Highly Commended), CESE, University of Newcastle
• 2016 Best Paper Award, Australasian Simulation Congress
• 2012 Faculty Commendation List, Faculty of Science and Information Technology
• 2024 INFT6009 Course Redevelopment Award

Dr. Bailey currently co-supervises four research students across PhD and Masters programs, with projects spanning user interface design, AI in visual storytelling, healthy food choice interfaces, and educational data visualization. Her grant portfolio includes six projects totaling $118,809, with significant funding from Meta ($97,036) for research on avatar emotions and a WTUN Exchange Programme grant. She has established the Interactive Intelligent Virtual Agents (I2VA) international collaboration and is developing the NUGamesTech student team for VR competitions.

Dr. Bailey leads the Older Persons Mode (OPM) research initiative, collaborating with researchers across all three University of Newcastle colleges to develop smartphone interfaces for older users. She also participates in Professor Karen Blackmore's i3Lab and has formed international collaborations through the Interactive Intelligent Virtual Agents (I2VA) network spanning Australia, Belgium, Japan, and Portugal.