I was recently invited by USA TODAY’s 10Best to serve as a member of the Expert Panel for the 2026 “Best Science Museum” awards. My role on the panel was to vet and nominate institutions that are pushing the boundaries of interactive discovery through sophisticated exhibit design and physical computing. As an interaction designer and creator of hands-on electronics, my evaluation focused on the “user journey” of the visitor. I prioritized museums that move beyond simple touchscreens toward “tangible UI: environments where sensors, microcontrollers, and responsive hardware allow the public to manipulate scientific data in real-time.” This includes identifying institutions that successfully bridge the gap between hard science and creative expression (STEAM). This activity informs my research into how we can design more intuitive, robust, and playful electronics that lower the barrier to entry for complex scientific concepts, ensuring that design remains a primary tool for public inquiry and engagement.
I work at the intersection of physical computing, robotics, and interaction design, exploring how technology can feel more relational, embodied, and responsive. My research focuses on designing interactive systems — from robots to immersive environments — that connect human behavior with physical and digital feedback.
USA Today 10 Best: Science Museum
