UCLIC Seminar, 26 November 2025, Florian Fischer

Title: Simulating and Enhancing Interactive User Behaviour: A Computational Perspective

Abstract: In Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), interfaces and interaction techniques are typically validated and compared through application-specific user studies and well-established quantitative models that enable the prediction of summary statistics, e.g., the time it takes to complete a given task. Inspired by recent advances in neighbouring fields, we propose forward simulation of biomechanical user models as a complementary, highly powerful tool for HCI that can provide novel insights into how and why users move during interaction, as well as the interdependencies between user perception and control. In combination with state-of-the-art optimization and ML methods, this approach allows researchers and designers to predict movement trajectories and ergonomic variables, such as fatigue, prior to conducting user studies. In this talk, I will discuss the potential of biomechanical simulation for HCI and UI design as well as current limitations and challenges of in-silico user testing.

Bio: Dr Florian Fischer is a Research Associate in the Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, and a Postdoctoral Member at Clare Hall, Cambridge. His research focuses on developing computational methods to analyse and enhance the accessibility, ergonomics, and performance of intelligent systems, particularly in the context of virtual reality. With over five years' experience in interaction design and user simulations, Dr Fischer aims to integrate models and theories from human motor control, biomechanics, and cognitive science to create customised, AI-based user representations. His work seeks to advance the understanding of user behaviour in collaborative and adaptive systems.