Graduate Zeyu XIONG : From HKUST(GZ) to ETH Zurich in Human-Computer Interaction

Zeyu XIONG, is one of the inaugural graduates of the College of Future Technology (CFT) Red Bird MPhil (RBM) Program at HKUST(GZ), specializing in human computer interaction. Following his graduation, he will pursue a Ph.D. in Computer Science at ETH Zurich in Switzerland, marking a significant milestone in his academic journey.

Passion for Human-centered Technology

At the age of 25, Xiong chose HKUST(GZ) to focus on human-computer interaction, driven by his desire to infuse technology with humanistic warmth and apply it to daily life.

"Technology must be applied to life to have value." He emphasized, reflecting his belief that technology should serve humanity.

During his undergraduate studies in computer science and artificial intelligence, Xiong was captivated by advanced technology but found limited opportunities to apply it to real-life scenarios in traditional academic settings.

"When I graduated, the CFT RBM Program at HKUST(GZ) was recruiting its 1st cohort. The university's emphasis on interdisciplinary integration and innovation aligned perfectly with my aspirations," he recalled.

Transdisciplinary and Project-based Learning

The CFT RBM Program at HKUST(GZ) offers a unique transdisciplinary and project based learning model, which Xiong found particularly transformative.

"This model bridges the gap between academia and product development, allowing technology to serve society," he noted.

In his field of human-computer interaction, Xiong believes that HKUST(GZ) has a natural advantage due to the inherently interdisciplinary nature of the field.

"It requires collaboration between social scientists, designers, and technologists to address societal needs and develop practical solutions," he said.

Throughout his studies, Xiong worked closely with students from diverse backgrounds, contributing to the creation of technological products driven by societal needs. This hands-on experience shifted his approach to product design and research, emphasizing a user-centered mindset.

Innovative Projects and Real-world Impact

During his time at HKUST(GZ), Xiong undertook several innovative projects that showcased the potential of human-computer interaction to address real-world challenges.

He developed a "smart facial cleanser" for Cantonese opera performers who suffer from skin issues due to heavy makeup, using human-computer interaction to detect makeup residue and improve skin health.

Additionally, he designed a mobile app for visually impaired individuals who struggle with smart parcel lockers. The app provides voice prompts to help them navigate the touch screens. Xiong also created an online communication platform for people who stutter, using voice recognition to assist with speech correction and training.

"At HKUST(GZ), I had the freedom to identify problems and use the university's resources to find solutions," he said. "Seeing my ideas come to life and receiving recognition, especially from special groups, was incredibly meaningful."

Looking Ahead

As Xiong embarks on his Ph.D. journey at ETH Zurich, he carries with him the skills and experiences gained at HKUST(GZ). His commitment to human-centered technology and interdisciplinary collaboration will undoubtedly continue to shape his contributions to the field of computer science.

Release date
20 Dec 2024
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