Olivia Bonnie Smith
My project is funded by a Department for the Economy Studentship.
What is your ideal Research outcome?
This exploratory research would ideally contribute to the field of HCI, by introducing psychological concepts of human perception and skill acquisition to the design process of new technologies, such as Digital Musical Instruments, in order to improve user-oriented design and consequently user-experience.
Supervisors
Dr Matthew Rodger and Dr Maarten Van Walstjin
Why did you choose this PhD and why at Queen's?
I was raised in Poitiers, a small town in France. I moved to Northern Ireland in 2015 to start my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Queen’s University Belfast. My interest in the Psychology of sensory perception along with my passion for sound and music led me to my current PhD project based in Queen’s Sonic Arts Research Centre.
How have you been supported at Queen's?
During my time at Queen’s as a post-graduate researcher, I have received excellent tutoring. I have been given the opportunity to present my work at university conferences, as well as receiving quality training regarding the structure of my research and thesis. I was also given the opportunity to partake in laboratory demonstrating.
In what ways have you developed at Queen's?
I have gained valuable new skills that are indispensable for pursuing a career in Academia or in industry.
Can you describe the postgraduate community in the School and at Queen's?
The PGRs in the School of Psychology are very supportive of each other, which is incredibly important for wellbeing and motivation when pursuing a career in research.
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