Johan F. Hoorn

Johan F. Hoorn is an Interfaculty Full Professor at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, jointly affiliated with the School of Design and the Department of Computing. He is also the Associate Director of PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research and Research Institute for Quantum Technology.

• PhD in General Literature and Computer Science
• Recipient of multiple national and international awards
• Active in RGC Theme-based Research Scheme (2025-2029)

Research interests span social robotics, affective computing, quantum cognition, and the observer effect. His work focuses on integrating AI with human psychology to address mental health challenges and enhance creativity.

Recent articles highlight trends in human-robot empathy, quantum probability applications, and AI-assisted artistic innovation. Key subfields include emotional bonding, media inequality, real-time cinematic design, and moral reasoning in robots.

Scientific awards include the Huibregtsen Prize (2020), Eureka Award (2015), and Pilot Science Appreciated Award (2021). He was also recognized with a Burgen Scholarship (2001) and Lorentz Fellowship (2010-2011).

He leads projects like Negative-mood reduction among HK youth with robot PAL (HK$3M grant) and SELEMCA (M€4.6 grant). His work has been exhibited at leading museums, including the Victoria & Albert Museum (2024).