CHCI Welcomes New Faculty Members

Yaxing Yao is a new assistant professor in Computer Science. Prior to joining CS@VT, he spent two and a half years as an assistant professor in the Department of Information Systems at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and a postdoctoral researcher in the Institute for Software Research at Carnegie Mellon University. He completed his PhD in Information Science from the School of Information Studies at Syracuse University (2020). 

About his connection to Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Yao says: “My research lies in the intersection of human-computer interaction, usable privacy/security, and accessibility in the context of smart homes, the Internet of Things, AR/VR, and other emerging technologies. I study, design for, and build for users with different characteristics (e.g., children, people with disabilities) to enhance their ability to control their privacy and make informed privacy decisions.”

Adedeji Afolabi is a research associate in the Myers-Lawson School of Construction. He received his PhD degree in Building Technology (Construction Management) from Covenant University, Nigeria. Prior to joining Virginia Tech, he was a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Building Technology, Covenant University. 

Adedeji says: “Within the context of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), my interest focuses on development of web-based systems and the use of immersive environments for construction workforce development. My interest is borne from the need to encourage inclusivity between computing systems or environment and people that necessarily do not have access or knowledge about what they can achieve using such innovative systems.”

Ihudiya Finda Williams is a new assistant professor in Computer Science. She received her PhD from the School of Information at University of Michigan.

With regard to her connection with HCI she says: "I research, design, and develop technology that is concerned with equity and justice at the forefront. As an HCI researcher, my research examines digital technology use among populations with low resources due to systemic injustices. I contribute to HCI research focused on equitable frameworks, marginalized populations, and community engagement.”