Biography
Dr. Kai Lukoff is an Assistant Professor at Santa Clara University, leading the Human-Computer Interaction Lab in the Department of Computer Science & Engineering. He uses human-centered methods to research, design, and develop technologies with social impact.
Dr. Lukoff’s research investigates how digital interfaces impact user experience and sense of agency. He has conducted field experiments to evaluate how redesigned features of social media applications, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, impact digital wellbeing metrics.
Additionally, Dr. Lukoff is collaborating with Native American partners on a new interdisciplinary project to create an augmented reality tour showcasing the past, present, and future of the Ohlone Tribe on Santa Clara University campus.
His research has been published in top-tier academic venues such as CHI, CSCW, IMWUT, DIS, and Mindfulness Journal, and recognized with the 2023 Outstanding Dissertation Award from ACM SIGCHI. He is also an award-winning public speaker and storyteller. Dr. Lukoff earned his PhD in the Department of Human Centered Design & Engineering at the University of Washington, co-advised by Drs. Sean Munson and Alexis Hiniker. Prior to his academic career, he worked as a product manager at mobile internet startups in China for six years.
Education
Ph.D., University of Washington, Human Centered Design & Engineering, 2022
B.A., Stanford University, Political Science, 2008
Courses Taught
- CSEN 12 - Abstract Data Types and Data Structures
- CSEN 129 - Human-Computer Interaction (undergraduate)
- CSEN 174 - Software Engineering
- CSEN 277 - Human-Computer Interaction (graduate)
- CSEN 296 - Attention Management Tools
Honors and Awards
- 2023 Outstanding Dissertation Award - ACM SIGCHI
- Location-Based AR Grand Prize - Niantic 8th Wall
