Dr. Edward Melcer ( He/Him )

Computer Science Professor at Carleton University

Dr. Edward Melcer is an Associate Professor in the School of Computer Science at Carleton University and Director of the Alternative Learning Technologies and Games Lab (ALT Games Lab). He previously served as Vice Chair for North America’s first serious games graduate program (2021–23). An award-winning independent game developer and interdisciplinary HCI researcher, Dr. Melcer specializes in designing, developing, and evaluating games that enhance outcomes in education and health.

His expertise directly powers the EDIT-STEM project, where he leads efforts to create engaging, evidence-based interactive technologies that transform STEM learning. Dr. Melcer’s research focuses on how games can drive deeper engagement, retention, and skill development, particularly for diverse learners. By combining rigorous empirical evaluation with creative design, he develops learning experiences that make abstract concepts tangible and motivating.

Through the ALT Games Lab, Dr. Melcer fosters collaboration across disciplines—uniting game developers, educators, and researchers to build tools that are both pedagogically sound and universally accessible. His leadership ensures EDIT-STEM delivers games that not only teach STEM effectively but also inspire lifelong curiosity and confidence in STEM fields.