Academic Portfolio

During my academic career, I have ventured into quite a number of scientific areas. I started with a German “Diplom” in Microinformatics at the University of Applied Sciences Gelsenkirchen, Germany, transitioning seamlessly into my first industry job where I developed electronic components and software for mobile weighing systems used in the waste management industry.
Three years later, went back to Academia, studying towards a degree of Master of Science in Computer Science with a specialisation in Human-Computer Interaction. For my thesis, I created an immersive virtual environment for physical simulations, using magnetic tracking technology, VR helmets, and a 3D projection screen.
In 2007, I moved to New Zealand and continued my academic career at The University of Auckland, where I used game technology to create a collaborative virtual environment for medical teamwork training with support for nonverbal communication.
After submitting (and later successfully defending) my thesis, I started working at the Auckland University of Technology as lecturer, being able to return to students and colleagues the knowledge invested into me and to apply my scientific curiosity to the research that I am involved in.
In 2016, I advanced to senior lecturer and founded Sentience Lab, a research space which specialises on the combination of 3D data visualisation and storytelling, using modern 3D technologies such as motion capture and head mounted displays (e.g., Oculus Rift, HTC Vive).