Hello, I'm Lei. I am the Director of Haii Lab, Associate Professor in the Open Lab, Deputy Degree Programme Director of MSc Digital Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship (Software Engineering Specialist) and Postgraduate Research Admissions Tutor at School of Computing at Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. My academic journey has been enriched by my experiences at esteemed institutions including Durham, Liverpool, and Warwick universities, before my tenure at Newcastle.
At the heart of my research lies the quest to revolutionise human-AI interactions. By weaving together the principles of human-computer interaction (HCI) with cutting-edge AI technologies, I explore novel pathways for humans and AI to engage in synergistic collaboration and co-creation. My commitment extends to ensuring that these interactions are grounded in ethical, legal, and societal principles.
My fascination with the empirical exploration of AI-powered interactive systems drives my research. I am dedicated to pioneering technologies that bolster creativity, productivity, adaptability, participation, diversity, inclusion, and heterogeneity. These core values are the bedrock of developing AI systems that are not just efficient but also ethically sound and socially beneficial.
My research canvas spans a diverse array of applied fields, including education, design, publicity, cybersecurity, healthcare, and well-being. I am fervently exploring the potential of AI to enhance these sectors, always with a keen awareness of the ethical and societal ramifications. Through the fusion of HCI and AI, my goal is to contribute significantly to the creation of intelligent systems that are both high-performing and conscientious.
I am currently a Co-I on the EPSRC AGENCY project "Assuring Citizen Agency in a World with Complex Online Harms" (EP/W032481/1), which aims to establish interdisciplinary scientific methods, technology, and collaborative societal approaches to provide online agency to people in a world with complex online harms.
At Newcastle University’s School of Computing, we are always on the lookout for brilliant minds to join our research team. We offer year-round opportunities for ambitious individuals to pursue a PhD under the guidance of a world-class academic team, including myself as your mentor.
Eligibility Criteria: To join the team, we expect candidates to possess (or be nearing the completion of) an undergraduate (BSc) or postgraduate (MSc) degree in any of the following fields: Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Applied Statistics, Human-Computer Interaction, Cognitive Sciences, Experimental Psychology, Learning Science/Engineering, Applied Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, Instructional Design, Industrial Design, Innovation Sciences, or a closely related field.
Your PhD Journey: As a PhD student, you’ll thrive under the tutelage of a diverse and experienced academic team, with me as your primary supervisor. You’ll also join the vibrant community within the Haii Lab and the Open Lab, engaging with a cohort of fellow scholars passionate about computing and innovation.
Application Process: Please reach out via email to initiate a dialogue on potential research themes and any queries you may have. In your email, please attach:
Explore project ideas and find inspiration on the Projects page.
Have a look at who my current PhD students are.
More publications on Google Scholar
