👩‍🎓HCI Researcher at iLab, AB, Canada

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✉️ashratuzzavin.asha@ucalgary.ca


Ashratuz Zavin Asha

I am a third-year Ph.D. student in Computer Science at the University of Calgary. I work in the Interactions Lab (iLab) at the intersection of Human-Computer Interaction and Inclusive Design. I am advised by Dr. Ehud Sharlin and Dr. Sharifa Sultana. Dr. Helen Ai He and Dr. Sowmya Somanath are also on my Ph.D. committee. My research aims to empower vulnerable and marginalized populations, such as women from the Global South and older adults, by enhancing their mobility and safety. Specifically, I design, implement, and evaluate human-machine interfaces to foster trust and acceptability towards emerging autonomous vehicle (AV) technology. My past projects explored the emerging new domain of interaction between pedestrians and AVs, with a strong focus on designing accessible interfaces for vulnerable road users, including pedestrians with reduced mobility, such as wheelchair users and those with hearing impairments.


I apply an inclusive and human-centred design approach leveraging mixed methods, including participatory designs (i.e., co-design), in-depth interviews, focus groups followed by design evaluations, and user studies. I use augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) environments to create and assess proof-of-concept interface prototypes. My research works have been published in top venues like CHI, DIS, TSC, and AutoUI and has been recognized with "Honorable Mention" and "Best Poster" Awards. I have received prestigious scholarships for my academic excellence, including the Alberta Innovates and Eyes High Doctoral Scholarships.


Before UCalgary, I was a lecturer of Computer Science & Engineering (CSE) for two years at United International University and Eastern University in Bangladesh. I obtained my undergraduate degree in CSE from the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), where my thesis work received the "Best Research Award."

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