The Department of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) conducts interdisciplinary research into the interrelationship between humans, technology and context. The aim is to enable desirable interactions and to design desirable human-technology relationships. We deal with current and new HCI perspectives and address forward-looking research questions, including interdisciplinary methodological approaches. We consider interaction to be highly situational and thus its design is essentially dependent on the specific characteristics of the contexts concerned.

In-depth research (also ethnomethodologically oriented) forms a rich basis for mapping onto the contextual characteristics of interaction. Linked to this is the constant refinement of appropriate approaches in terms of sustainable interaction alternatives. We use design methods as a means of reflection and exploration in the sense of contextual.interaction.design.research. Humans and technology are in constant interaction and influence or form each other synergistically.

The department is heavily involved in national and international projects, for example:

•  HIVE – Hybrid Interaction in Vibrant Environments,
•  Diversity Computing Spaces,
•  HADRIAN – Holistic Approach for Driver Role Integration and Automation Allocation for European Mobility, or
• the  Salzburg Center for Smart Materials.

The Human Computer Interaction (HCI) department is largely responsible for the Joint Master’s programme in Human Computer Interaction. Together with the Salzburg University of Applied Sciences, an international Master’s programme is offered in English. This interdisciplinary programme combines principles from computer science, design and psychology and is dedicated to understanding the evolving relationship between humans and interactive systems. The programme prepares future experts to develop, design, implement and evaluate novel interfaces and innovative forms of interaction that better meet the needs of users, clients and customers. Topics include design thinking, usability engineering, human factors, contextual interfaces, interaction design, prototyping, interaction technologies, user experience (UX) and their application in research and industry. In addition to this Master’s programme, the HCI department offers courses in the Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes in Computer Science, as well as in the Bachelor’s programme Digitalisation Innovation Society (DIG).

University professors

• Tscheligi, Manfred, Univ.-Prof. Mag. Dr.
• Frauenberger, Christopher, Univ.-Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Ph.D.

Assoziierte & Ausserordentliche Universitätsprofessoren

• Meschtscherjakov, Alexander, Assoz. Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr.

Postdoc(s) & Senior Scientists

• Fuchsberger-Staufer, Verena, Mag. Mag. Dr.
• Krischkowsky, Alina, Mag. Dr.
• Mirnig, Alexander, Mag. Dr.
• Murer, Martin, Dipl.-Ing. (FH)
• Falk Olesen, Jeanette, MSc. PhD.