Geoff Kaufman

Geoff Kaufman is an Associate Professor and Director of the PhD Program at the Human-Computer Interaction Institute at Carnegie Mellon University, as well as the founder of the eHeart Lab. His research spans psychology, design, and computer science, focusing primarily on how experience-taking influences personal attitudes, behavior, and emotions. His work explores methods for transforming self-concept and social perspectives through virtual narratives, games, and interactive technologies, and develops game design models aimed at social change. His research provides practical strategies to enhance empathy, reduce bias, and foster social interaction. Additionally, he is committed to designing technologies that support and empower marginalized communities and advancing the application of technology in education, language learning, and interventions against social bias. He possesses a diverse academic background and substantial practical experience, with significant contributions published across multiple fields.

• 2015-Present·Carnegie Mellon University·Associate Professor, Human-Computer Interaction Institute & Director of PhD Program
  • Researches the intersection of human-computer interaction, psychology, and design, with a focus on experience-taking, game design, and social change.
• Postdoctoral Research Fellow | Dartmouth College Tiltfactor Lab
  • Engaged in game development and research relevant to social impact, introducing the embedded design model.

• 2005-2010·Ohio State University·PhD and Master's in Social Psychology
  • Studied the psychological mechanisms of virtual narratives and experience-taking and their social effects.
• 2001-2005·Carnegie Mellon University·Bachelor's in Psychology
  • Majored in psychology, laying the groundwork for research at the intersection of human-computer interaction and psychology.