Carleton University
Patricia Bérubé, PhD Cultural Mediations
Co-supervisors: Dr. Jesse Stewart, Dr. Lois Frankel
Department: Institute for Comparative Studies in Literature, Art and Culture
My previous research work included translating a painting so that it could be accessible through touch for people who are visually challenged. My current research interest is finding new ways to translate colors for everyone to enjoy.
Jacob Booth, MASc Aerospace Engineering
Supervisor: Dr. Mojtaba Ahmadi
Department: Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
My research is focused on designing accessible human computer interfaces. Specifically, it involves designing an accessible motion controller to allow people with motion disabilities to interact with media content and home automation devices.
Daniella Briotto Faustino, PhD Information Technology
Audrey Girouard
Department: School of Information Technology
My doctoral research will explore the use of deformation and other novel interaction methods to improve accessibility for people with vision impairment in mobile contexts. As part of the READi program, I hope to engage in exciting projects and apply a user-centred approach to solve existing accessibility problems.I am interested in using a collaborative process involving end user feedback to design assistive technologies.
Emma Farago, PhD Electrical and Computer Engineering
Supervisor: Dr. Adrian Chan
Department: Systems and Computer Engineering
My primary research interest involves the use of biosignals in the development of devices to assist with mobility, therapy, and health monitoring. I am looking forward to the READi program, and I hope to become involved with multi-disciplinary research directed towards the development of accessible technologies.
Hasti Khiabani, MASc Mechanical Engineering
Supervisor: Dr. AMojtaba Ahmadi
Department: Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
My research is focused on Bio-mechatronics and more specifically Rehabilitation robots. The main purpose is modifying and designing rehabilitation robots or assistive devices to help people with injuries or disabilities recover their possible strength in shorter duration.
Cynthia Morawski, MDes
Supervisor: Dr. Lois Frankel
Department: School of Industrial Design
As a professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Ottawa, my research and teaching focuses on multimodal learning, sustainability, learning differences, literacy, and interdisciplinarity. As an educator, I strive to make the school curriculum accessible to all students by employing multiple means of learning. I am also a visual artist, who makes use of upcycling to create mixed media works from both natural and manufactured materials.
University of Ottawa
Kristina Kupferschmidt , PhD Biomedical Engineering
Co-supervisors: Dr. Natalie Baddour, Dr. Adrian Chan, Dr. Edward Lemaire
Department: Mechanical Engineering
I am interested in how biomedical technology can improve quality of life, specifically when addressing issues surrounding accessibility of care. For READi, I am looking forward to learning more about user-centered design and working with a multidisciplinary team to solve complex accessibility problems.
Connor McGuirk , MASc Biomedical Engineering
Supervisor: Dr. Edward Lemaire
Department: Mechanical Engineering
My MASc research is focused on biomechatronics and active prosthesis control. Through the READi program I will obtain knowledge that is crucial to designing these types of devices in a way that makes them more accessible to all individuals.
Queen’s University
Emily Harmsen, MA Cultural Studies
Supervisor: Dr. Claire Davies
Department: Faculty of Arts and Sciences
My intended area of study for my masters includes researching universal, inclusive, accessible and sustainable design methods. I am interested in developing a design framework that merges aspects of accessible and sustainable design theories; as well as in examining the successes and failures of modifications made to existing designs and the stigmas that can exist in relation to the use of inclusively designed material items within mass markets. The READi program appeals to me because of its hands on and multi-disciplinary collaborations surrounding accessible design and innovation.
Katie VanTil, MASc Mechanical Engineering
Supervisor: Dr. Claire Davies
Department: Mechanical & Materials Engineering
I am looking forward to working with students from various disciplines to develop creative solutions to improve accessibility and broaden my understanding of accessibility issues through the READi program
Caryn Vowles, PhD Mechanical Engineering
Supervisor: Dr. Claire Davies
Department: Mechanical & Materials Engineering
My research interest is to develop technology that increases usability for all. My interest in the READi program is to get multiple perspectives on everyday issues that defer us from having an inclusive environment for everyone no matter their abilities.