I am an Assistant Professor in Computer Science at Ontario Tech University, where I lead the UXID Lab (User Experience and Interaction Design). I earned my PhD from the University of Manitoba under the supervision of Dr. Pourang Irani and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Waterloo with Dr. Daniel Vogel and Dr. Jian Zhao. My research focuses on designing and evaluating digital and intelligent systems that better support human capabilities, decision-making, usability, and accessibility across diverse technological contexts.
My research spans Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Human-AI Interaction, with an emphasis on mobile, wearable, and emerging technologies. I study user needs and interaction constraints, and design novel interaction techniques and AI-assisted systems that enhance human performance and support effective, trustworthy integration of AI into everyday computing.
For detailed admission requirements, please refer to the university's official page. Prospective students who have reviewed these requirements are invited to express their interest by emailing me at ali dot neshati at ontariotechu dot ca. Please ensure your email includes both your (i) CV and (ii) academic transcript(s).
I am currently accepting applications for graduate positions starting in Fall 2026. I strongly encourage applicants to familiarize themselves with my research areas prior to contacting me. Please note that generic inquiries or those unrelated to my specific research interests may not receive a response. I value well-informed applications that demonstrate a clear alignment with my work.
Abstract submission deadline for the ACM Symposium on Virtual Reality Software and Technology.
Paper submission deadline for the UBICOMP 2026 Conference.
Abstract submission deadline for the ACM ICMI 2026 Conference.
Abstract submission deadline for the ACM UIST 2026 Conference.
Abstract submission deadline for the IEEE VIS 2026 Conference.
Abstract submission deadline for the ACM CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems.
Mohammad Zawad will be presenting his latest findings on smartwatch interactions.
Welcome back! First lab meeting of the new academic year begins at 10:00 AM.
Group viewing session for the ACM UIST Conference presentations.
Demonstrations of our latest wearable and interactive technology projects for prospective students.
Final project presentations for CSCI 4620: Human-Computer Interaction.
Researching HCI with a focus on interaction design and usability in complex systems.
(2024)
Final-year student with a research focus on wearable technologies like smartwatches.
(2024)
Final-year student with interests in machine learning and AI, transitioning to a master’s program.
