Through the research of Julian Brinkley M ’23, Dean’s Associate Professor of Human-Centered Computing, the integration of technology and transportation is becoming more inclusive for people with disabilities. In this interview, Brinkley discusses how he combines his personal passion with his academic expertise to create meaningful impact — and how he’s equipping students to do the same.
What are the focus areas and applications of your research?
Julian Brinkley: My research exists at the intersection of human factors, automotive engineering and computer science. A significant portion of our work is focused on accessibility and human-machine interfaces — designing technologies that can be used by people with a wide range of disabilities. For instance, we are exploring how to make the digital interface in an autonomous rideshare vehicle more accessible for individuals with visual impairments. Our research has a wide range of applications, including automotive, consumer appliances and a variety of kiosks, such as those used for self-checkout.
What fuels your passion for research and teaching?
JB: The opportunity to work on something you’re truly passionate about means a lot to me. Growing up, I had a family member with a cognitive disability, so I became more attuned to his specific needs. That experience, along with my academic background, sparked the desire to design technologies to be more inclusive.
From a teaching perspective, the ability to help students overcome challenges and deepen their understanding and knowledge is really powerful. To me, I think there is no better feeling.
How do you involve students in your research?
JB: I really make an effort to meet students where they are. I find that if I’m able to first understand what the student is passionate about exploring, it makes it easier to be aligned on what we’re doing in the lab. Another key element I focus on is fostering a positive lab culture. We often spend time together outside of the research space — whether it’s bowling, hosting potluck dinners or just hanging out — which helps build stronger relationships and makes our time in the lab more productive and enjoyable.
What do your students gain from being part of your research team?
JB: Our lab has produced students who have gone on to achieve great success in both industry and academia. For our work, we take an industry-style approach to managing projects, ensuring that students gain experience with real-world processes. I also emphasize the importance of applying theoretical knowledge to meaningful, practical applications. By combining their experience in the lab with the ability to translate research into real-world applications, students are well-prepared for the challenges they will encounter in the industry.
How is your research currently making an impact?
JB: Our research has led to several opportunities beyond the lab. We launched the Designing for Movement podcast with the vision of bringing together thought leaders from academia and industry to discuss emerging transportation challenges, especially those relating to accessibility.
Additionally, I founded Daedalus Cybernetics, a startup aimed at leveraging artificial intelligence to engineer a more accessible future for people with disabilities. One aspect of the company connects researchers directly with end-users, ensuring that the research is both effective and impactful. Another division creates customized accessibility profiles that adapt the digital interfaces of a variety of products to the specific interaction needs of individuals with disabilities. It’s all aimed at empowering people with disabilities to navigate the digital world with confidence.
