Niloufer Selvadurai is Professor and Director of Research & Innovation at Macquarie Law School, where she also co-directs the Data Horizons Research Centre and co-chairs the Australian Law Associate Deans Research Network. A technology law scholar focusing on AI regulation, she examines how laws can calibrate technological innovation benefits and risks. Her interdisciplinary research collaborates with computing, engineering, finance, and health fields. Key leadership roles and recognitions include: Co-Director, Data Horizons Research Centre Program Leader for 'AI and Law' at Centre for Applied AI 2022 Australian Legal Education Award for Excellence in Graduate Research Supervision 2023 Higher Degree Research Supervisor of the Year Her publications extensively cover AI governance, digital finance, copyright, and smart contracts law, with recent work examining AI inventorship and regulatory frameworks for central bank digital currencies.
Dr. Christopher Collins is a Professor of Computer Science at Ontario Tech University, leading the Visualization for Information Analysis Lab (vialab). He holds a PhD from the University of Toronto (2010) and focuses on interdisciplinary research in information visualization, human-computer interaction, and natural language processing. His work addresses challenges in information overload, text analytics, and novel interfaces such as touch, pen, VR/AR. Collins' research has been featured in top-tier venues like ACM CHI and IEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics, earning honorable mentions and over $3M in funding as sole PI. He serves on the IEEE VIS Executive Committee and Board of Governors at Ontario Tech University. Education: PhD in Computer Science, University of Toronto (2010) MSc in Computer Science, University of Toronto (2004) BSc (Hons) in Computer Science, Memorial University (2001) Research Interests: Collins' work spans information visualization , pen+touch interfaces , visual analytics , and text-driven systems . He explores how interactive technologies can democratize complex data analysis, particularly in education, healthcare, and creative domains. Recent projects include gaze-driven learning tools, context-aware camera interfaces, and bias-mitigating product review analysis. Awards: ACM CHI Honorable Mention Award IEEE VIS Honorable Mention Award Grants & Impact: Secured $3M+ in research funding. Media coverage includes New York Times and CBS Sunday Morning for innovations in visualization and text analytics. Teaches courses in human-computer interaction, computer graphics, and information visualization. Labs & Collaborations: vialab develops tools like Lexichrome , ConToVi , and NeuroSight . Active in IEEE Visualization and ACM Interactive Media communities. Collaborates with academia and industry globally.
Hariharan Subramonyam is an Assistant Professor (Research) at Stanford University's Graduate School of Education and Computer Science (by courtesy) . He is also a Faculty Fellow at the Institute for Human-Centered AI (HAI) and a core member of the Stanford HCI Group . His research focuses on augmenting human learning, creativity, and sensemaking with AI, informed by cognitive psychology and collaborative design practices. Research Interests: Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Learning Sciences Generative AI Educational Technology Assistive Technology Cognitive Psychology Recent Trends: Designing AI tools for education and creative coding Co-developing AI experiences with multidisciplinary teams Ethical and responsible AI frameworks Accessible interfaces for visually impaired users Scientific Awards: Best Paper Award, CHI 2025 Best Paper Honorable Mention, CHI 2025 Best Paper Award, ASSETS 2024 Best Paper Award, UIST 2023 Best Paper Award, IUI 2021 Best Paper Award, CHI 2020 Advising & Grants: Co-advising PhD student Neha Rajagopalan Mentoring 23+ student researchers Principal Investigator on HAI Hoffman Yee Grant (2024) Labs & Teams: Stanford Human-Computer Interaction Group Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI Collaborative projects with University of Michigan, Georgia Tech, and National University of Singapore
Cleo Valentine is a Vice Chancellor's Doctoral Scholar at the University of Cambridge and Senior Design Researcher in Neuroarchitecture at HKS. Affiliated with the Department of Architecture and Computational Neuroscience Group, her work establishes the field of architectural neuroimmunology , investigating how architectural forms mediate neuroinflammatory responses. She lectures at Politecnico di Milano and Harvard University, and contributes to editorial boards of Intelligent Buildings International and Buildings . Education: MPhil in Architecture and Urban Studies (Cambridge), MSc in Sustainable Urban Development (Oxford), BA in Urban Systems and Economics (McGill/Copenhagen) Research Affiliations: UCL Spatial Cognition Lab, MIT Department of Urban Studies and Planning, Cambridge Design Engineering Centre Her research combines neuroimmunology , computational neuroscience , and biophilic design to demonstrate how architectural features like curvature, proportions, and enclosure affect allostatic load and neuroinflammation . Key findings show that biomorphic design reduces neuroinflammatory activity, with implications for urban health policy and architectural ethics. Recent publications analyze visual stress in architectural façades , epigenetic consequences of urban design , and neuroethical frameworks for architectural practice. She advocates for human-centric design tools to balance creative expression with neurophysiological health impacts. Scientific Awards: Vice Chancellor's Doctoral Scholarship (Cambridge), Cambridge Trust funding, Wolfson College support, Harvard Visiting Fellowship Partnerships: Heatherwick Studio’s Humanise Campaign, UCL/RISE Centre for NeuroArchitecture, Beautiful Places AI Her work intersects with the Mind Body Space International Symposium , ANFA Conference , and International Making Cities Livable Conference , emphasizing cross-disciplinary collaboration to redefine architecture’s role in public health.
Dr. Sara M. Grimes is Wolfe Chair in Scientific and Technological Literacy and Full Professor at McGill University's Department of Art History and Communication Studies. Her research examines children's digital media cultures, rights in digital environments, and game design ethics, with emphasis on commercialization of play, privacy protections, and responsible AI. Publications consistently address regulatory gaps in children's digital spaces, privacy politics, and participatory design. Recent work demonstrates strong focus on age-appropriate design frameworks and cross-cultural policy comparisons. Grimes founded the Kids Play Tech Lab, focusing on rights-based children's technologies. Current projects include SSHRC-funded Child Appropriate Game Design initiative analyzing age norms in Canada/UK/US game industries, and Privacy Commissioner-funded Jeu Dangereux examining data practices in children's apps. Community partnerships include A-Game Studios' rights-by-design climate science game. Award-winning book: Digital Playgrounds
Professor Sok Ying Liaw is the Head of the Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS). She holds a PhD in Medical Education from Maastricht University and has extensive experience in nursing education and patient safety research. Her work focuses on interprofessional collaboration, simulation-based learning, and clinical deterioration management. She has pioneered programs like the SIMulated Professional Learning Environment (SIMPLE) to bridge theory and practice in nursing. Education: Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Education, Maastricht University Master of Health Science (Education), University of Sydney Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing), University of Sydney Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Neuroscience), Nanyang Polytechnic Diploma in Nursing, Nanyang Polytechnic Research Interests: Professor Liaw’s research revolves around PRIME themes: Patient Safety: Clinical deterioration recognition and response Interprofessional Collaboration: Team training and communication Manpower Development: Nursing workforce strategies Experiential Learning: Simulation-based education She has developed programs like e-RAPIDS and CREATIVE to enhance clinical competencies. Articles Trends: Her recent work emphasizes virtual reality (VR) simulations for team training, interprofessional education in telemedicine, and AI integration in healthcare scenarios. Studies often compare VR-based interventions against traditional methods, focusing on stress reduction, skill acquisition, and clinical performance. Awards: 2024 International Nurse Researcher Hall of Fame 2023 INACSL Excellent Research Award 2021 SHBC Merit Award (Oral Presentation) Grants & Advising: Leads funded projects like ‘Virtual Escape Room Simulation-Based Education’ (2024-2027) and co-leads initiatives on nursing competency scales. Advises student Lee Shin Syuen on research teams. Labs/Teams: Her team collaborates on simulation-based education and telehealth innovations, leveraging VR and AI technologies to address gaps in clinical training and patient care.
Dr. Ding Zhou is an Assistant Professor at the School of System Design and Intelligent Manufacturing (SDIM) at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech). He holds a PhD in Industrial Design from Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Australia (commenced 2018), and prior academic roles include Associate Professor at Nanjing University of the Arts (2009–2018). His research focuses on cross-disciplinary innovation at the intersection of Industrial Design and STEM Education, emphasizing human-centric technology integration. He has conducted visiting research at the University of Virginia (2012) and Victoria University of Wellington (2014–2015). Education: PhD in Industrial Design, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Australia (ongoing since 2018) M.A. and B.A. in Industrial Design (exact institutions unspecified) Research Interests: Dr. Zhou’s work bridges design science and education, prioritizing how technology enhances human experiences. Key areas include 3D printing applications in STEM education, exoskeleton robotics, computational design aesthetics, and user-centric design processes. He advocates for pedagogical frameworks that cultivate students’ transdisciplinary problem-solving skills through integrated STEM tasks. Articles Trends (2022–2025): Recent publications highlight advancements in 3D printing for education and manufacturing, human-robot interaction, and smart classroom technologies. Notable themes include scalable computer vision systems for posture detection, topology optimization in additive manufacturing, and BIM-enabled construction processes. Labs & Teams: He leads the Design Science and Educational Innovation Lab (DSEIL), focusing on translating theoretical research into practical educational tools and technologies.
Cassandra R. Davis is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Public Policy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her research focuses on environmental disruptions to schooling communities, particularly addressing systemic racism and inequitable disaster aid distribution to marginalized populations. She holds a Ph.D. and M.A. from UNC-Chapel Hill’s School of Education, a B.A. in Sociology from Wake Forest University, and a certificate in Global Education and Development Studies from Ludwig-Maximilians Universität in Munich. Dr. Davis’ work explores the impacts of natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes Florence, Harvey, and Matthew) on schools, educators, and students in low-income communities of color. She has received funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation to study disaster recovery strategies and pandemic-related educational challenges. Her research emphasizes trust-building between emergency management agencies and vulnerable groups, as well as policy solutions to mitigate long-term vulnerabilities. Key research areas include social vulnerability in schooling communities, climate hazard preparedness, and equitable resource allocation. Her articles span topics like teacher resilience post-disaster, WIC program efficacy, and pandemic impacts on marginalized students. Grants and fellowships highlight her interdisciplinary approach to public policy, education, and social justice. Dr. Davis collaborates with educators, policymakers, and community leaders to translate research into actionable strategies. Her work bridges academia and practice, aiming to advance equity in disaster resilience, education systems, and food security initiatives.
Dr. Nicola Cortinovis is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Economic Geography at Utrecht University's Faculty of Geosciences. His research focuses on regional economic performance, industrial dynamics, and the role of knowledge spillovers in shaping regional development. He explores topics such as smart specialization, green innovation, and the impact of multinational enterprises on local economies. Education: PhD in Economic Geography (2016, Utrecht University) Teaching: Courses include Geographies of Multinationals, Location in a Globalized World, and Methods for Economic Geography. Research interests span institutional drivers of regional diversification, the relationship between spatial structure and productivity, and the application of AI in research data processing. He contributes to initiatives like the LSE GILD Blog and collaborates on projects such as PILLARS (Pathways to Inclusive Labour Markets). Recent work examines green innovation in EU regions, export dynamics in China, and wage inequality in the Netherlands. He is affiliated with the Foundations of Complex Systems and Institutions for Open Societies (IOS) research groups.
Heidi Biggs is an Assistant Professor in the School of Literature, Media, and Communication at the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts, Georgia Institute of Technology. Her work bridges posthuman theory with design practices, focusing on narrative forms of knowledge, queer entanglements with land histories, and sustainability through interdisciplinary mapping. She teaches courses like 'Principles of Interaction Design' and 'The Computer Expressive,' emphasizing creative and critical approaches to technology and society. Her research explores intersections of HCI, environmental design, and critical theory, with notable projects on AI ethics, rural queer communities on TikTok, and the legacy of redlining in sustainability. She employs methods like multispecies ethnography and speculative design to challenge normative technological and ecological frameworks. Biggs' recent work includes analyzing hallucinations in NLP systems and developing embodied data mapping techniques that intertwine bodily, environmental, and digital data. Though no awards are explicitly listed, her contributions to critical design and posthuman studies reflect impactful scholarly engagement. Her courses and research emphasize participatory futuring and collective healing, addressing systemic inequities in technology and environmental policy. While no advising or grants are detailed, her projects often involve collaborative, community-oriented approaches to design innovation.
Dr. Tony Stockman is a Senior Lecturer at Queen Mary University of London's School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science. His teaching focuses on Database Systems, Interaction Design, and Semi-structured Data Modelling across undergraduate and postgraduate programs. His research interests include Human-Computer Interaction, Auditory Displays, and Data Sonification, with a strong emphasis on accessibility and cross-modal interfaces. Dr. Stockman has contributed to over 100 publications, exploring topics such as biofeedback systems, assistive technologies for visually impaired individuals, and collaborative design methodologies. His work frequently bridges technical innovation with user-centric design principles. Notable projects include the development of non-visual navigation tools like the Audiom web-based map viewer and co-designed haptic wearables for music synchronization. His research also addresses challenges in education technology, such as dyslexia screening through serious games.
James Calvert is a Senior Lecturer in Animation at the University of South Australia’s UniSA Creative. With 20 years of industry experience, he founded The People’s Republic of Animation and Six Foot Kid, specializing in animation, VR, and video games. His PhD focused on narrative VR for education, yielding publications in Q1 journals like Computers & Education and Virtual Reality , alongside the VR documentary Thin Ice VR , which highlights climate change impacts in Antarctica. Education & Research: James holds a PhD by Publication from Torrens University Australia, emphasizing narrative VR’s educational applications. His research spans Specialist Studies in Education, AI-driven Image Processing, and Cognitive Sciences, with a practice-based approach to embodied narrative VR design. Research Themes: Immersive educational VR experiences Educational impact of narrative design in VR Climate change communication through VR Student engagement and knowledge transfer Awards & Recognition: Academic: Australian Teachers of Media Awards 2022 (Best Screen Production), Torrens University HDR Research Commendation 2020 Industry: Multiple VR/Animation accolades including Barcelona Planet Film Festival 2022, Cannes Worldwide Film Festival 2022 Collaborations & Grants: Worked with institutions like the South Australian Film Corporation and Adelaide Film Festival. Key projects include Thin Ice VR (exhibited globally) and Kokoda VR , exploring historical empathy through immersive narratives. Labs/Teams: Part of UniSA Creative, a hub for interdisciplinary research in creative technologies and education.
N. A. M. Maiden is a leading academic at City, University of London, with a prolific research output in human-centred artificial intelligence, digital creativity support, and requirements engineering. His work focuses on designing and evaluating digital tools that augment human creativity in professional domains such as journalism, elite sports coaching, and dementia care. His research interests are highly interdisciplinary, bridging computer science, human-computer interaction, and social applications. Key areas include co-creative AI systems, computational creativity, natural language processing, rule-based reasoning, and user-centred design. He investigates how technology can empower professionals by enhancing their creative thinking processes while maintaining high levels of human control. The trends in his recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on developing and evaluating practical digital tools like 'Sport Sparks' for coaches and 'JECT.AI' for journalists. His work employs design science methodology, emphasizing co-creation with practitioners and empirical evaluation in real-world settings. The research spans from technical system architecture to human factors and societal impact, particularly in journalism innovation and healthcare technology. Automating science journalism tasks Designing digital tools for creative thinking in sports coaching Towards AI-enabled support for business model creativity Using computational tools to support journalists' creativity Creativity Triggers for requirements elicitation Dr. Maiden has made significant contributions to the field through numerous publications in top journals and conferences. His research often involves collaborative projects with industry partners and other academic institutions, securing funding for innovative work in human-computer collaboration. He mentors a research group focused on digital creativity and has been instrumental in developing novel methodologies for requirements engineering and creative problem solving. His work includes the development of serious games for forensic mental health settings (e.g., 'StreetWise') and digital solutions for improving dementia care. These projects highlight his commitment to applying technology for social good and improving quality of life through innovative information systems.
Finola Kerrigan is Professor of Marketing and Deputy Dean at Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham. She is also Deputy Chair of the Arts, Heritage, Nonprofit and Social Marketing Special Interest Group of the Academy of Marketing and serves on the board of the International Society of Markets and Development (ISMD), where she is a past President. Her academic leadership includes prior roles as Head of Department and Doctoral Lead in Marketing. PhD, University of Hertfordshire PG Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, University of Hertfordshire MA in European Integration, University of Limerick BA in English, Sociology and Politics, University College Galway Finola Kerrigan's research centers on branding, digital identity, ethics, and the cultural and creative industries. She explores how new technologies reshape marketing and consumer behavior, with a focus on film, fashion, and the arts. Her work integrates qualitative and creative methodologies to examine consumer experiences, nostalgia, and responsible marketing practices. Her recent publications reveal a strong thematic focus on ethical dimensions in marketing, particularly in entertainment and branding. She investigates regressive nostalgia, consumer commentary on ageing and sexuality, and the need for responsible film marketing. Her work bridges theory and practice, contributing to debates in macromarketing, brand theory, and sustainability in fashion and the arts. Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts President of the International Society of Markets & Development Member of the Academy of Marketing Executive Secretary of the Academy of Marketing Co-chair of the 2012 International Conference on Markets and Development Finola has secured research funding from the ESRC, EPSRC, British Academy, and charitable organizations. She has led industry collaborations and advised public and commercial bodies. She mentors PhD students and contributes to academic governance through editorial roles in journals such as Marketing Theory and Journal of Marketing Management . She is actively involved in the arts community, serving on the Board of Directors of the Jasmin Vardimon Dance Company and contributing to research in arts marketing and consumption. She has also taught internationally, including at Royal Holloway, University of London, and as a visiting researcher at Monash, Deakin, and National Chengchi Universities.
Dr. Michael L. Austin is a Senior Lecturer in Music and Sound at Edge Hill University, serving as Programme Leader in Music Production since January 2023. He previously held academic roles at Louisiana Tech University, Howard University, and others. His research focuses on sound and music in interactive media, including video games, social media, and smart devices. He is Executive Director of the Society for the Study of Sound and Music in Games and a Research Associate at the Library of Congress's Radio Preservation Task Force. Education: PhD in Humanities (Aesthetic Studies) from the University of Texas at Dallas (2011), MA in Music Theory from UT Austin (2007), and BA in Music Composition from UT San Antonio (2005). Research interests include ludomusicology, cultural representation in media, sound design for UX, and algorithmic bias in emerging technologies. His 2024 monograph Audiovisual Alterity explores identity representation in music videos, while earlier works like Music Video Games: Performance, Politics, and Play (2016) analyze music's role in digital games. Publications span video game music analysis, algorithmic bias, and sound art. His talks include topics like 'Sounding Drag Identities in Video Games' and 'Algorithmic Bias in Emerging Media.' As a sound artist, his work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian and Dallas Museum of Art.
