Kathrin Figl

Kathrin Figl is a Full Professor (Tenured) for Human-centric Information Systems Design at the Department of Information Systems, Production and Logistics Management at the University of Innsbruck. Previously, she held positions as an Assistant Professor at WU Vienna University of Economics and Business and as a research associate at the University of Vienna.

Her educational background includes a doctoral degree in Information Systems (2008, with honors, awarded the Dr. Maria Schaumayer Prize) and dual master's degrees in Information Systems (2004) and Psychology (2006), all from the University of Vienna. This interdisciplinary foundation bridges technical and psychological perspectives in her research approach.

Professor Figl's research centers on human-centered information systems with particular emphasis on cognitive aspects of digital interaction:

• Human-AI interaction and algorithmic management systems
• Digital nudging techniques and online manipulation
• Eye-tracking methodologies in user research
• Cognitive biases and heuristics in digital environments
• Fake news perception and detection mechanisms
• Webpage prototypicality and its effects on user attitudes
• Business process modeling as cognitive tools

Her publication trajectory demonstrates a sophisticated evolution from foundational work on business process modeling to cutting-edge research on device-specific cognitive effects and misinformation perception. A hallmark of her methodology is the rigorous application of empirical approaches, particularly eye-tracking studies, to investigate how screen design, device type, and interface elements influence human cognition and decision-making across digital platforms.

Professor Figl has earned significant recognition for her scholarly contributions:

• Dr. Maria Schaumayer Prize for doctoral excellence
• Three Best Paper Awards at major international conferences
• Excellent Teaching Award from WU Vienna
• Recognition as a top reviewer for Software & Systems Modeling journal
• Outstanding service awards as associate editor and track chair

She has secured substantial research funding including an FWF Lisa Meitner Programme grant (€145,260) on Web Design Prototypicality and an Austrian Nationalbank Research Grant (€55,000) on Cognitive Effectiveness in Business Process Modeling. While specific advisees aren't documented in the provided materials, her extensive publication record with numerous co-authors indicates active mentorship of graduate researchers. Her work with eye-tracking technology suggests leadership of a specialized laboratory environment for studying human-computer interaction, with established collaborations including the Technical University of Denmark and Queensland University of Technology.