Partners in Research
UC Santa Cruz professors, scientists, and researchers engage in research that intersects with Silicon Valley companies and innovators
Computer scientists are collaborating with industry partners to address the growing challenge of storing vast amounts of electronic data. Linguists who understand the complexity of language are enhancing the intelligence of digital personal assistants. Researchers are developing assistive robotics, autonomous vehicles, and cybersecurity insights to help us navigate the future. Psychologists are creating digital tools to empower us, by exploring how technology impacts fundamental aspects of our everyday lives. Game designers are understanding how interactive scenarios can change how we see the world—and influence how we feel.
Together, these diverse fields of research are driving transformative advancements that will shape the future of technology and human experience.
Research labs and centers
Alternative Learning Technologies and Games (ALT Games) Lab
The ALT Games Lab is an interdisciplinary team with projects ranging across multiple domains such as Human-Computer Interaction, Learning Science, Electrical Engineering, Psychology, and Digital Arts. The lab’s mission is to create and explore the potential of alternative controllers, novel interfaces, and other forms of unique input/output.
Authentic User Experience Lab (AUX Lab)
The AUX Lab integrates empirical and humanistic methods to do research with subcultures. We publish in human-computer interaction and other related venues (e.g., CHI, DIS, CSCW, ECSCW, ICWSM). Take a look at our projects and publications.
Center for Computational Experience
The Center for Computational Experience is an interdisciplinary research center focused on human-computer interaction and technology for games and play. Our world-class research faculty combine expertise in engineering, social science, arts, humanities, and design.
Game User Interaction and Intelligence (GUII) Lab
The GUII Lab focuses on the intersection of game design, interactive arts, and interactive media, with emphasis on developing new design mechanics, new methods to measure the user experience, expanding and applying new AI algorithms, and engineering new designs. The lab engages in the development of new applications towards broader impacts in education, health, and climate change.
Many research programs within the Baskin School of Engineering have strong ties with Silicon Valley industry. Explore the high-impact research led by UCSC faculty and supported by industry partners at Baskin Engineering.