The Tangible Media Group (TMG) aims to expand the frontiers of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Human-Human Interaction (HHI). Tangible Bits and Radical Atoms are part of HCI.
We are transitioning our research focus from HCI to HHI and are seeking new applicants for Fall 2026 admission who can contribute to the following themes:
1. AI-Mediated Human-Human Interaction: This theme aims to enhance telepresence systems for human collaboration across time and space. By utilizing AI tools , we assist in analyzing design sketches, annotations, and discussions to facilitate co-ideation.
2. Tangible Telepresence: This theme seeks to reinvent distancing and enhance the sense of co-presence among people—spatially, temporally, and emotionally. We incorporate "tangibility" into interpersonal communication and collaboration channels to strengthen social presence.
3. TeleAbsence: Our new vision, TeleAbsence, extends the concept of telepresence to the past and the afterlife, addressing the emotional and temporal distance caused by memories of loved ones who have drifted apart or passed away. Instead of explicit representations, TeleAbsence offers poetic encounters with digital and physical traces left by others' absence. It fosters illusory communication to evoke the feeling of being with those no longer present, without using synthetic or generative representations. We explore interactive storytelling using tangible objects like pianos, antique telephones, and typewriters to access memories associated with these tangibles. https://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/158451
We pursue transdisciplinary research. We expect TMG researchers to fluently speak the languages of art, design, science, and technology and express their ideas across all these disciplines. Influential academic publications are essential to contribute to the field of HCI/HHI and Media Arts.
What We're Looking For:
The Tangible Media Group is looking for creative, design-sensitive, technologically skilled, hard-working, and team-oriented graduate students. Our work in Human-Human Interaction involves creating fully functional and aesthetically pleasing media, requiring a diverse skill set in product design, electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, digital fabrication, advanced computer programming, AI programming, cognitive science, and psychology. Applicants should have a solid background and proven track record in HCI & HHI research, including publications (e.g., ACM SIGCHI), and experience in Interaction Design & AI Programming.
To apply to TMG, please provide the URL of your online design & research portfolio showcasing your past work and future vision, along with your CV and a statement. It is essential that these materials are accessible online (no email attachments, please) for review before an interview. We carefully evaluate and select candidates for interviews, which may be conducted in person or via Zoom.
Learn about applying through the Program in Media Arts & Sciences.