Janina Anjuli Schmidt

Prof. Janina Anjuli Schmidt is a Professor of Digital Design at the Hochschule für Gestaltung Offenbach am Main since 2021. She holds a diploma in Industrial and Interaction Design from HfG Offenbach (2008–2014) with exchange studies at Napier University and Edinburgh Art College. Her professional career includes roles at Bosch Siemens Home Appliances (2012 internship), Lunar Europe (2013 interactive product development), and a pivotal role in establishing Reliance Jio’s digital ecosystem, connecting 360 million Indians to the internet.

• Education:
  • Diplom in Product Design, HfG Offenbach (2008–2014)
  • Exchange studies: Napier University & Edinburgh Art College

Research Interests: Focuses on creating emotionally engaging digital products and systems that bridge physical and digital experiences. Expertise spans interactive lighting (LightLight project), sensor integration (VirtualClay, OREA/LEAP Fitness), and accessible technology for global audiences. Her work emphasizes usability, sustainability, and cross-cultural digital inclusion.

Awards:

• TERA yoga mat project (awarded multiple design accolades)

Advising & Teams: Leads HfG’s Digital Design department and previously managed international teams at Reliance Jio and Lunar Europe. Her JioPhone initiative revolutionized rural Indian connectivity. Active in academic leadership, she co-chaired the 2023 Design Award for Inclusion jury.

Labs/Teams: Heads her own design team at HfG and collaborates with industry leaders like Bosch Siemens and Lunar Europe on innovative product systems.