Roberta Macaluso

Roberta Macaluso is a PhD student in Computer and Systems Engineering (39th cycle, 2023-2026) and an External Lecturer at the Department of Control and Computer Science (DAUIN) of the Polytechnic University of Turin. She is actively affiliated with the GRAINS research group and the VR@POLITO laboratory, contributing to extended reality initiatives.

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering, University of Catania, graduated November 2019
• Master's Degree in Computer Engineering (major: Graphics and Multimedia), Polytechnic University of Turin, graduated December 2023

Research Interests: Her work centers on Extended Reality (XR) technologies for socially engaged virtual environments, spanning Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Mixed Reality applications. She investigates computer graphics and multimedia techniques to enhance user interaction in training simulations (e.g., forest fire management), social VR platforms, and healthcare rehabilitation systems, with emphasis on embodiment, therapist representation, and multi-user dynamics.

Publication Trends: Her 2024-2025 publications reveal a concentrated focus on XR applications in healthcare and social contexts. Key themes include machine learning refinement for social VR animations, prosthetic limb embodiment through AR/DR exergames, and therapist representation in tele-rehabilitation. Her research bridges computer science, human-computer interaction, and practical clinical/training implementations, demonstrating consistent innovation in XR fidelity and user experience.

Awards: No scientific awards documented.

Advising and Grants: Supervised by Prof. Fabrizio Lamberti and Prof. Alberto Cannavò for her PhD, she previously held a scholarship under Prof. Lamberti focused on XR tools for interactive 3D visualization in multi-user platforms. Her research directly supports the development of socially engaged virtual environments and training applications.

Labs and Teams: Core member of the GRAINS (GRAphics and INtelligent Systems) research group and VR@POLITO laboratory at DAUIN, where she conducts XR development and testing for forest firefighting simulations, healthcare rehabilitation, and social interaction frameworks.