Computer Science Teaching Assistant Excellence Laureates

I am currently a Master’s student in Computer Science at the University of Calgary, where I am researching in the area of computer graphics. My work focuses on modeling flowers and plants. I enjoy the challenges of recreating patterns mathematically. 

During my time at the university, I have had the opportunity to work as a Teaching Assistant for several courses. This experience has been rewarding, as it has allowed me to support students in their learning while also deepening my own understanding of computer science concepts. 

Outside of my studies, I enjoy music, theater, and chess.

Research Interests: Computer Graphics, and mathematically modeling flower heads

Education: MSc in Computer Science (current); BSc in Computer Science

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 251: Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science I
CPSC 331: Data Structures Algorithms and Their Analysis 
CPSC 413: Design and Analysis of Algorithms 1 

Contact: 
niloufar.ashayeri@ucalgary.ca    
www.linkedin.com/in/niloufar-ashayeri-3a57607a

I am a recipient of double Gold Medals as a Software Engineering graduate and hold Departmental Research Award from University of Calgary. I have worked with TELUS on an extended reality application for improving quality of experience and also had the privilege of mentoring undergrad students on industrial projects, an experience that has strengthened my passion for teaching.

I regard Teaching Assistantship as a prestigious and impactful opportunity to shape minds and contribute to both academic and personal growth. Hence, I always strive to connect with students, spark their interests through my work, and incorporate real-world scenarios in my teaching.

My research interests lie in Extended Reality (XR), Artificial Intelligence and Affordability. I enjoy exploring creativity by blending colors and science to design unique experiences. One of my works includes a Voice-Augmented Virtual Reality Interface which leverages natural language as primary mode of interaction in 3D environments offering more accessibility and interactivity.

Currently, I am working on a platform that empowers users to achieve greater value and aims to make affordability a reality for more consumers.

Aside from the above, I love to design, paint and occasionally manage to stretch my vocals at Open Mic.    

Research Interests: Extended Reality (XR), Artificial Intelligence and Affordability.

Education:  MSc in Computer Science (current), BSc in Software Engineering    

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 217: Introduction to Computer Science for Multidisciplinary Studies I
CPSC 231: Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors I
CPSC 233: Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors II
CPSC 457: Principles of Operating Systems
SENG 511: Software Project Management
SENG 300: Introduction to Software Engineering

 

Contact: 
farhan.aslam2@ucalgary.ca
www.linkedin.com/in/faranaslam    

I am an MSc student at the Department of Computer Science supervised by Dr. Frank Maurer. My research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction in Virtual Reality environments.

The year 2024 at the University of Calgary has been nothing less than fulfilling: surrounded by curious undergraduates in my TA classes, amazing peers at the Department of Computer Science, and inspiring academicians who stand at the leading edge of research and teaching.

Additionally, the growing entrepreneurial resources and research-driven innovation at the University of Calgary have allowed me to be a researcher, teacher, learner, and friend. My interest in reading, running, and hiking around beautiful Alberta also grew profoundly in my MSc.

In the future, I hope I can give back all the guidance, support, and opportunity I have received from the amazing people at the University of Calgary.    

Research Interests: Human-Computer Interaction, Virtual Reality, and Large Language Models

Education: MSc in Computer Science (current), BSc in Computer Science and Engineering (First Division with Honours)

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 217: Introduction to Computer Science for Multidisciplinary Studies I
SENG 513: Web-Based Systems

Contact: 
naman.bhoj1@ucalgary.ca    

I’m currently pursuing a Master’s in Computer Science at the University of Calgary, specializing in Computer Graphics. My work also involves contributions to machine learning, computer vision, and data science. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Tehran. My research focuses on generating synthetic data using procedural models of plants to support machine learning and computer vision applications. Additionally, I’m a passionate Linux enthusiast and spent three years working on a Linux distribution for a company I was part of.    

Research Interests: Computer Graphics, Machine Learning, Computer Vision, and Data Science

Education: MSc in Computer Science (current); BSc in Computer Engineering

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 231: Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors I 
CPSC 233: Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors II
DATA 201: Thinking with Data 
DATA 601: Working with Data and Visualization

Contact:
amirsalar.darvishpou@ucalgary.ca    
www.linkedin.com/in/salar-darvish

I am a Master's student in Computer Science at the University of Calgary, supervised by Dr. Mea Wang. My research focuses on multimedia networking and the design of systems that solve real-world problems through practical computing research. I am particularly interested in building systems that bridge theory and real-world applications, especially in areas where networking, distributed systems, and interactive technologies intersect.

Teaching has been one of the most rewarding parts of my graduate experience. I enjoy supporting students as they develop problem-solving skills and learn fundamental concepts. I was honored to serve as the Teaching Assistant in Residence (TAiR) for two semesters where I collaborated with fellow TAs to share teaching practices, support the TA community, and help strengthen the learning environment across the department.

Research Interests: Cloud Computing, Multimedia Networking, and Virtual Reality

Education: MSc in Computer Science (current); BSc in Computer Engineering

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 329: Explorations in Information Security and Privacy
CPSC 413: Design and Analysis of Algorithms I
CPSC 441: Computer Networks
CPSC 526: Network Systems Security

Contact:
sepehr.ganji@ucalgary.ca
www.linkedin.com/in/sepehrganji/ 

Shokoofa is a Machine Learning Specialist with over five years of experience in applied AI, computer vision, and medical imaging analysis. In her recent work, she has focused on developing multi-modal models, the building blocks of foundation models, as well as advancing self-supervised learning techniques. She is interested in connecting with professionals who share a passion for AI and its ongoing evolution.

Research Interests: AI in Healthcare

Education: Master's Degree in Computer Science

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 331 - Data Structures, Algorithms, and Their Analysis (using Java) and CPSC 231 - CPSC 457 - CPSC 219 - CPSC 319 - CPSC 233

Contact:
zahra.ghods@ucalgary.ca
www.linkedin.com/in/shokoofa-ghods/ 

I am a fifth year undergraduate computer science student at the University of Calgary interested in many areas of Computer Science, including reverse engineering, virtual reality applications, and AI/ML.

During my time at UCalgary, I had the opportunity to complete a summer research project focused on developing a multi-agent system designed for AI agents. This system is now used by students in the newly introduced CPSC 383 course for multiple assignments. After this research experience, I became a teaching assistant for the class at its inception, having an incredible time helping students explore topics such as rule-based AI, machine learning models, and multi-agent strategies. I've really enjoyed my time as a teaching assistant, especially the opportunity to help curious students learn new concepts and skills as they discover their passions in this wide ranging field of study.

Outside of university I like to do various forms of game programming and modding, AI agent competitions, and web development. Away from my computer, I enjoy golfing, racket sports, watching (American) football, and reading sci-fi books!

Research Interests: Extended Reality Applications, Retrogames, Reverse Engineering, Game Programming, Front-end development, Rule-Based AI, Battlecode coding competition

Education: BSc in Computer Science (current)

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 217: Introduction to Computer Science for Multidisciplinary Studies I
CPSC 383: Explorations in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Contact:
colton.gowans@ucalgary.ca
www.linkedin.com/in/colton-gowans/ 

Chris received his bachelor's degree in mechatronics engineering from the University of Waterloo but has pivoted to more mathematical and theoretical work having received a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Calgary. His current research is focused on information security and cryptography with his master’s thesis focused on secure multi-party computation.

Chris has always had a passion for helping others learn. Beyond TA’ing for various security courses throughout his master’s degree, Chris has also worked as an instructor for the International Professional Programs for Continuing Education.    

Research interests: Information Security and Cryptography    

Education: MSc in Computer Science; BASc Hons Mechatronics Engineering with Minor in Mathematics

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 525: Principles of Computer Security 
ISEC 651: Topics in Security and Privacy
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Bootcamp

Contact: 
christopher.jiang@ucalgary.ca    

I hold a Master of Science in Computer Science from the University of Calgary, where my research focused on developing AI-driven digital twins for cancer care. My graduate work explored how digital twin frameworks can support clinical decision-making by creating patient-specific virtual representations that forecast clinical risks and evaluate potential treatment interventions. The research combined a multitask mixture-of-experts model with causal inference techniques to analyze electronic health record data and estimate treatment effects in emergency clinical settings. Through this work, I investigated how predictive modelling and “what-if” reasoning can be integrated to support safer and more data-driven healthcare decisions.

Currently, I work on developing data-driven software systems and AI-powered tools that support engineering and organizational workflows through scalable applications, machine learning pipelines, and modern data infrastructure.

Beyond research, I am deeply passionate about teaching, mentorship, and community engagement. As a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Computer Science, I particularly enjoyed working closely with students to help them build confidence in programming and data science concepts. I have also been involved in outreach initiatives such as Technovation and the Calgary Youth Science Fair, and have participated in several academic and student committees at the university, supporting initiatives that promote learning, collaboration, and community within the academic environment.

Research Interests: Digital Twins for Healthcare,  LLMs, Agentic AI for Software Systems, Distributed Systems

Education: 1. M.Sc in Computer Science (current); 2. B.Eng in Computer Engineering

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 331: Data Structures, Algorithms, and Their Analysis
CPSC 433: Artificial Intelligence
CPSC 471: Database Management Systems 
DATA 221: Introduction to Data Science
DATA 601: Working with Data and Visualization
DATA 604: Working with Data at Scale
DATA 605: Actionable Visualization and Analytics

Contact:
annette.john@ucalgary.ca
www.linkedin.com/in/annette-john/
scholar.google.com/citations?user=k5jxBfwAAAAJ&hl=en 

Tyler Klein Longmire is an animator, media artist, and graduate researcher based in Calgary. He is currently completing a Master of Science in Computational Media Design at the University of Calgary, where his research focuses on interactive media for live performance, with particular interest in animation, XR, and audience experience. His work bridges scholarly inquiry and creative practice, exploring how digital tools can shape new forms of storytelling, performance, and public engagement.

In parallel with his research, Tyler works as a freelance animator and interdisciplinary media artist. His professional practice includes animated film, projection design, installation, and immersive media, with credits on projects for E.D. Films, Netflix, Werklund Centre, Beakerhead, Fort Edmonton Park, and other cultural and experiential productions. He also develops independent animated and interactive works supported by arts funders and presented through festivals and public programming.

Drawing from both research and industry experience, Tyler is committed to making complex creative and technical ideas accessible to students, and to fostering confidence, curiosity, and experimentation in the classroom.

Research Interests: HCI research-creation, immersive and interactive design, game studies, cybernetics, animation, and computational media in live performance contexts.

Education: MSc, Computational Media Design, University of Calgary (current); BFA, Theatre (Directing) University of Victoria

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 217, CPSC 219, DATA 201, DATA 471

Contact:
tyler.kleinlongmire@ucalgary.ca 
tklongmire.com

I am a thesis-based MSc. Computer Science student under the supervision of Dr. Joel Reardon. My research focuses on internet privacy, specifically uncovering user tracking by third parties on the web. In previous research projects, I have investigated data collection on election campaign websites and analyzed NHL player and puck data. My professional experience includes student roles at Cenovus Energy and Suncor.

I have had the privilege to TA for CPSC251 and CPSC329. I am thankful for the opportunity to work with and learn from my professors and colleagues at the University of Calgary and am grateful to be part of the community.

Research Interests: Privacy, Information Security

Education: MSc in Computer Science (current); BSc. Hons in Computer Science

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 

CPSC 251: Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science I

CPSC 329: Explorations in Information Security and Privacy 

Contact:
tin.le@ucalgary.ca    
www.linkedin.com/in/tin-nghu-le  

I’m a Master’s student in Computer Science, focusing on genomic large language models (LLMs) to advance genomics research. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Victoria, a beautiful island campus in Canada, where my passion for computational biology began.

Outside of research, I enjoy speed skating and golf to stay active and balanced. Cheers!    

Research interests: Genomic large language models

Education: MSc in Computer Science (current); BSc in Computer Science

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 217: Introduction to Computer Science for Multidisciplinary Studies I
CPSC 251: Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science I
CPSC 471: Data Base Management Systems
CPSC 571: Design and Implementation of Database Systems

Contact:
qiaowang.li@ucalgary.ca    
profiles.ucalgary.ca/qiaowang-li    

I find joy in seeing the look of accomplishment on someone's face after they learn something new, so I applied to the PhD program directly after my undergrad with the long-term goal of becoming a professor. I intend to develop my teaching skills by applying to TA positions that will challenge me to expand the kind of content I can teach. During my undergrad, I had TA positions for theory courses because that was what I felt most comfortable teaching. However, I also want to be able to teach people other content. Fall 2024 was my first semester of my PhD, and I had a TA position for CPSC 329: Introduction to Information Security. I learned new skills to teach about security, and I hope the students found value in my tutorials. In Winter 2025, I have a TA position for CPSC 383: Explorations in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning which I am excited for. I am grateful for the mentorship I have received from the professors I work with, and I look forward to everything I get to learn in the future.    

Research Interests: Programming language development, Concurrent programming, and Category theory

Education: PhD in Computer Science (current); BSc Honours in Computer Science

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 329: Explorations in Information Security and Privacy  
CPSC 383: Explorations in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning 
CPSC 413: Design and Analysis of Algorithms I 
CPSC 449: Programming Paradigms

Contact: 
alexanna.little@ucalgary.ca
www.linkedin.com/in/alexanna-little-70508172

Hi! My name is Matthew McConnell, and I am a graduate student at the University of Calgary. I am currently pursuing a doctorate degree in computer science. My research interests include artificial intelligence-powered adaptive education with a core focus on gamified learning environments. Currently, I am studying the use of reinforcement learning techniques for adaptive education. A large focus of my research revolves around the gamification of educational systems to boost motivation and engagement. This includes procedural content generation, adaptive difficulty, pedagogical support, and overall unified learner models. Professionally, I have worked with serious game startups, as well as working for the Canadian Space Agency for virtual reality simulations. My hobbies include video games, programming, guitar, Magic the Gathering, and music! I have played rugby for most of my young-teen / adult life, including at the University of Calgary, and am currently keeping busy with Muay Thai training. I also enjoy working on vehicles, particularly the many trucks I have had through the years. 

Research Interests: Adaptive Education, Artificial Intelligence, Reinforcement Learning and Serious Games / Gamification

Education: BSc. in Computer Science (University of Calgary) MSc. in Computer Science (University of Calgary) Direct transfer to PhD. from MSc. (University of Calgary)

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
Data 211
CPSC 383
CPSC 585

Contact:
matthew.mcconnell1@ucalgary.ca 
github.com/matthew-mcc 

I am an MSc graduate in Computer Science from the University of Calgary. My research focuses on efficient processing and management of large-scale geospatial data and Earth observation datasets. During my graduate studies, I worked on developing methods for real-time multiresolution storage and retrieval of time-varying geospatial data using Discrete Global Grid Systems (DGGS). This work was conducted as part of a collaborative research effort with the BigGeo project, where I contributed to the design of scalable approaches for managing large Earth observation datasets.

During my graduate studies, I have served as a teaching assistant for several courses in the departments of Computer Science and Data Science, including "Developing Big Data Applications", working with instructors such as Dr. Tyler Bonnell. In this role, I supported students through tutorials, assignment discussions, and technical guidance on course projects. Working closely with students helped me strengthen my communication skills and reinforced my interest in teaching and mentoring.

Research Interests: My research interests include big data processing, data science, Earth observation data management, and multiresolution data structures such as Discrete Global Grid Systems (DGGS).

Education: M.Sc. in Computer Science, University of Calgary, Canada (2022–2026) | B.Sc. in Computer Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Iran

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 453 - Introduction to Computer Graphics
DATA 608 - Developing Big Data Applications
DATA 604 - Working with Data at Scale
CPSC 471 - Database Management Systems

Contact:
amir.mirzaigolpayega@ucalgary.ca
www.linkedin.com/in/amir-golpayegani-218148165  

I am an MSc student in Computer Science, conducting research in the field of Human-Computer Interaction under the supervision of Dr. Christian Frisson. My research focuses on enhancing the sense of touch on the ground to improve perception in virtual environments.

Working as a Teaching Assistant provides me with a valuable perspective on university courses and academic knowledge, as well as a great opportunity for personal development. I feel a strong responsibility to support undergraduates in their learning, and I am grateful that the problem‑solving and communication skills I developed in previous industry experience help me fulfill this role.

I see myself more as a peer than a mentor, aiming to support students with understanding and empathy while guiding their learning through my additional experience. Thanks to the support of professors and fellow TAs, I have been able to maintain a good balance and teach smoothly.

In the future, in addition to continuing my research, I hope to further strengthen my teaching skills, especially in creating more engaging tutorials that help students discover enjoyment in the learning process. 

Research Interests: Ground Sensation, Haptic, Human-Computer interaction (HCI)

Education: MSc in Computer Science (current); BEng in Computer Science

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
DATA 201: Thinking with Data
CPSC 481: Human-Computer Interaction I
CPSC 573: Visualization and Analytics 

Contact:
isaac.ng@ucalgary.ca 
www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-ng-273810254/ 

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Honours) with a concentration in Human-Computer Interaction from the University of Calgary. I am currently a thesis-based master’s student in Computer Science at the University of Calgary under the supervision of Dr. Katie Ovens. My research focuses on inter-agent transparency in LLM-based multi-agent systems, an area I am excited about because it sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, collaboration, and transparency.

More broadly, I am passionate about developing AI systems that can genuinely support people in meaningful ways, especially communities that face barriers or disadvantage. I believe technology should not only be innovative, but also accessible, responsible, and helpful in real-world contexts.

As someone who has always been a learner, I deeply value the impact that understanding, supportive, and inspiring educators can have. Much of my growth has been shaped by the guidance of teachers, professors, and mentors, especially those at the University of Calgary. Their influence has inspired me to pursue teaching as a way to give back and help others grow. I also volunteer as a mentor for Technovation Girls, where I support and encourage more girls to explore opportunities in technology.

Research Interests: Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence, AI for Social Good, Explainable and Collaborative AI, and Human-Computer Interaction in Intelligent Systems

Education: BSc in Computer Science (Honours), MSc in Computer Science (current)

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
DATA 201: Thinking with Data 
DATA 211: Programming with Data
DATA 601: Working with Data and Visualization
CPSC 231: Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors I 
CPSC 599.27/601.02: Natural Language Processing

Contact:
phuongthao.nguyen@ucalgary.ca
www.linkedin.com/in/pthaon/ 

I am currently a Masters student with a strong interest in computer graphics and evolutionary agent algorithms. I honestly never thought I would be a master’s student, but the universe is funny in the way it works sometimes and I am so happy to have had this opportunity. I enjoy creating things, whether it be making board or video games, GMing for D&D, or sewing cosplays, and that same mindset carries over into my work. One of my core philosophies has always been to approach everything with a sense of curiosity and a desire to learn and doing my masters has been a huge learning experience.

Being a TA is an important responsibility as my role has a direct impact on the education journey for many of my students. Seeing students learn and grow has been an incredibly rewarding experience and I hope to be able to continue this skillset well into the future. As teaching continues to evolve, I am both excited and honestly a little nervous to see what the future of teaching looks like as we enter the age of AI but I am looking forward to learning and adapting with my students and colleagues!
 

Research Interests: Evolutionary swarm robotics and algorithms, emergent systems

Education: MSc in Computer Science (current); BSc Honours in Computer Science with graphics concentration

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 565 Emergent Computing 
CPSC 457 Principles of Operating Systems
CPSC 233 Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors II
CPSC 393 Metacognition in Self-directed Learning Methodologies 

Contact:
samuel.osweiler@ucalgary.ca
www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-osweiler-452251224/ 
github.com/SamuelGarm 

Karly Ross is a graduate student in computational media design with an undergraduate degree in applied mathematics. Karly’s work  computational. creative, and otherwise— ponders data absences and orientations while attending to physical mobility in urban space.

Karly has been tutoring people in secondary and tertiary mathematics for over a decade including work at the Colleges of the Rockies and values the process both through research and teaching practice of helping people make sense of their world.     

Research interests: Data Literacy, Community Centred Data Practices, Data Visualization, Data Production, Epistemology and Axiology of Data, Data and Cities, and Data Justice

Educaton:  MSc. in Computational Media Design (current); BSc in Applied Mathematics     

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 583  Introduction to Information Visualization 
Data 221  Introduction to Data Science
Data 601  Working with Data and Visualization

Contact:
karly.ross@ucalgary.ca    

I am a Master’s student in Computer Science at the University of Calgary, where I also work as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant. My research, titled “An Improved Model of Plant Tropisms and Variation for Computer Graphics Purposes,” focuses on developing a light-weight mathematical model to simulate plant movements driven by tropic responses, while incorporating controllable random variation to enhance realism in computer-generated plant structures. As a Teaching Assistant, I have supported courses including CPSC 231 (Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors I), CPSC 251 (Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science I), and CPSC 331 (Data Structures, Algorithms, and Their Analysis).

I hold a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science from the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. After completing my undergraduate studies, I joined IFS (Sri Lanka), an enterprise software provider focused on industries with complex asset and service management needs, where I advanced from Software Engineer to Senior Software Engineer. I later worked as a Senior IFS Technical Consultant at SEBSA (Sri Lanka), an IFS-focused consulting company, before beginning my graduate studies at the University of Calgary.

Research Interests: Computer Graphics, Biological Modeling and Visualization 

Education: BSc in Computer Science (Hons), reading for MSc in Computer Science at University of Calgary

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 231 - Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors I
CPSC 251 - Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science I
CPSC 331 - Data Structures, Algorithms, and Their Analysis

Contact:
tharushi.samarajeewa@ucalgary.ca 
www.linkedin.com/in/tharushi-samarajeewa/ 

I am a thesis-based master’s student in Computer Science at the University of Calgary, working within the iLab research group. My bachelor's degree was in Robotics and Mechatronics from Nazarbayev University (Kazakhstan). I also engage in digital arts, which is sometimes incorporated into my technical pursuits.

My research focuses on tactile sensing, particularly through optical and vibrational methods, to explore how machines perceive and interact with the world. At the core of my research lay the ideas and concepts about how the world around us works and how we perceive it. I believe that these insights serve as inspiration for developing innovative solutions that connect technology with real-world applications.

By combining my technical expertise and interdisciplinary interests, I aim to contribute to advancing sensory technologies while fostering a deeper understanding of perception and interaction.    

Research interests: Tactile sensing—particularly optical and vibrational methods—and exploring the intersections of perception, art, and engineering to understand and enhance human-machine interaction.

Educaton:  MSc in Computer Science (current); BSc in Robotics and Mechatronics    

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 217: Introduction to Computer Science for Multidisciplinary Studies I 
CPSC 231: Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors I 
CPSC 481: Human-Computer Interaction I

Contact:
danissa.sandykbay1@ucalgary.ca    
linkedin.com/in/danissa-sandykbayeva    

I am a PhD researcher in Computer Science at the University of Calgary, with a focus on large language models and their applications in video game design. My work explores how AI can support the creation of adaptive and interactive digital experiences, with an emphasis on how systems respond to and engage with players during gameplay. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a concentration in video game design, which informs my interest in the intersection of artificial intelligence and interactive systems.

My technical background includes experience with Python, C++, and Java, as well as development tools such as Unreal Engine and OpenGL. I have developed interactive systems including a 3D driving game and a physically grounded simulation of the solar system. Alongside my research, I have been involved in teaching and mentorship, supporting students across a range of computer science topics and communicating complex technical concepts to diverse audiences. My broader research experience includes human-computer interaction, virtual reality, and interactive systems.

Research Interests: My primary research interest is in large language models, with an emphasis on their potential applications in video game design and other underexplored forms of human interaction. My previous research has also explored virtual reality, haptics, and human–autonomous vehicle interaction.

Education: Honours First Class Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Master’s of Computer Science: Research of Haptics in VR

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 217 Introduction to Computer Science for Multidisciplinary Studies I
CPSC 219 Introduction to Computer Science for Multidisciplinary Studies II
CPSC 481 Human-Computer Interaction
DATA 201 Thinking with Data
DATA 482 Data Visualization Fundamentals

Contact:
smithcg@ucalgary.ca
www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-smith-uofc/ 

I am a  MSc. Computer science student at the University of Calgary studying human-computer interaction. My research is focused on designing technologies that facilitate the mind-body connection, particularly for representing difficult-to-describe symptoms when seeking medical care. I'm driven to learn more about all the ways that HCI design approaches can address the complexity of human experience. I also have a background in data visualization and machine learning, having co-authored and presented “Towards Inline Natural Language Authoring for Word-Scale Visualizations” at the IEEE VIS 2024 conference.

In addition, I am passionate about fostering student growth and wellbeing. I have been part of the Social Innovation Design Challenge initiative with my supervisor Dr. Helen Ai He to connect students and local industries within Calgary. I am always happy to hear from students about any ways I can help their learning experience.

Research Interests: Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Data Visualization, Health and Wellness Technologies, Brain-Computer Interfaces, Art and Self-Expressive Technology Designs

Education: University of Calgary MSc. Computer Science (current), University of Calgary BSc. Computer Science

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 251: Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science I
CPSC 217: Introduction to Computer Science for Multidisciplinary Studies I 
CPSC 393: Metacognition in Self-Directed Learning Methodologies

Contact:
paige.sobrien@ucalgary.ca
linkedin.com/in/paige-so-brien-718a07149 

I completed my Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Computer Science at the University of Calgary and am currently pursuing a Master’s degree under Dr. Frank Maurer in the Serious XR Lab. My research interests lie at the intersection of technology, medicine, and interactive systems. As an undergraduate, I worked on integrating traditional medical imaging applications with mixed reality tools, and my current research is investigating how interactive lenses to enhance user experiences in immersive digital environments.

I am passionate about understanding pain points in workflows and designing intuitive, user-friendly solutions. My work in Human-Computer Interaction focuses on designing user-centered interfaces, which I approach through hands-on user research and physical or digital prototype development.

Teaching and mentorship are equally important to me. I aim to create engaging lessons that leave a lasting impact and equip students with concepts they can carry into their academic and professional journeys. As my academic career progresses, I hope to expand my opportunities for teaching and mentorship, contributing to both student growth and the broader field.    

Research interests: Serious Extended Reality Applications, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Medical Imaging Visualization, and Interactive Digital Lenses.

Education: MSc in Computer Science (current); BSc (Hons) in Computer Science; Information Computer Technologist (ICT) Diploma - SAIT    

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 217: Introduction to Computer Science for Multidisciplinary Studies I 
CPSC 231: Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors I

Contact:
brody.wells@ucalgary.ca    
www.linkedin.com/in/brody-wells

As a second-year MSc student in Computer Science at the University of Calgary, I have found immense satisfaction in bridging the gap between complex technical concepts and student understanding. My academic journey, from studying Data Science at HKUST to pursuing Computational Neuroscience under Prof. Ryo Suzuki's guidance, has equipped me with a unique perspective that I bring to my teaching assistant role. I aim to foster an engaging learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and exploring challenging concepts. I believe that effective teaching goes beyond merely presenting information – it's about creating connections and inspiring curiosity. When I'm not in the lab or classroom, you'll often find me playing Nintendo's games.     

I obtained my bachelor's degree in Data Science and Technology from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology in 2022. And I'm currently a master's student in Computer Science with a specialization in Computational Neuroscience at UofC.    

Research interests: Human-Computer Interaction (focus on Mixed Reality and Human-Robot Interaction), Computational Systems (how they shape human perception and behavior), and developing technologies that enhance human capabilities through both system design and cognitive approaches

Educaton: MSc in Computer Science (current); BSc in Data Science and Technology

Previous, current or upcoming TA courses: 
CPSC 233: Introduction to Computer Science for Computer Science Majors II    
DATA 201: Thinking with Data
SCIE 398: Communication in CPSC

Contact:
nandi.zhang@ucalgary.ca    
nandi-zhang.github.io