معرفی
Stefano Padilla is an Associate Professor in the School of Mathematical & Computer Sciences at Heriot-Watt University, with a focus on Computer Science. He serves as Programme Director for BSc Computer Science and MEng Software Engineering, and Deputy Programme Director for BSc Computer Systems and MDes in Games Design and Development. He leads the Strategic Futures Laboratory and has expertise in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Supported Collaborative Work (CSCW), and data visualization. His research explores tools for research strategy, collaboration, and innovation, with applications in games, fashion, and retail. Padilla has received multiple awards, including Honourable Mentions at ACM DIS and CHI conferences, and fellowships for public engagement. His work integrates perception studies, crowd-based feedback systems, and interactive technologies to enhance user experience and academic collaboration.
Research interests span HCI, data visualization, and interdisciplinary innovation. Key areas include: 1) designing tools for collaborative work and creative industries; 2) leveraging crowdsourcing for perceptual and emotional feedback; 3) visualizing complex research trends; and 4) bridging digital and tactile experiences in fashion and art. His contributions address challenges in user confidence in AI systems, effective networking strategies, and translating academic research into practical applications.
Awards highlight his impact: Edinburgh Beltane Public Engagement Fellow (2011), Heriot-Watt Principal's Award (2011), and Best Technical Paper (2013). He actively organizes research events, such as the SICSA Data Science Event (2017), and contributes to academic strategy through publications and conference activities.
Padilla's advisory and collaborative work extends to multinational companies and SMEs, demonstrating real-world applications of his research. His lab, the Strategic Futures Laboratory, focuses on foresight tools and innovation ecosystems, reflecting his commitment to bridging academia and industry.
