Kieran Hicks

Dr. Kieran Hicks is a Course Director at Staffordshire University and leads the DEMI research center. His research focuses on the concept of "games for good," aiming to use games to promote positive impacts on health, education, and social interactions, particularly his pioneering work on "Juiciness" (the visual appeal and satisfaction in games). His research spans gamification design, human-computer interaction, and game engagement across diverse populations. He has published papers at various academic conferences and journals and is dedicated to leveraging game technologies to improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations.

• 2020 to Present·Staffordshire University·Course Director
  • Leading the DEMI research center, specializing in game design research, particularly "Juiciness" and its impact on player experience.
  • Advocating for the "games for good" research paradigm, advancing the application of game technologies in the fields of health and education.

• 2015-2020·University of Lincoln·PhD
  • Specialization: Game Design and Human-Computer Interaction
  • Research Topic: The Impact of Juiciness on Player Experience