About

Hi, I’m Helen Ai He. I’m an Associate Professor in Human-Computer Interaction, at the Department of Computer Science, University of Calgary (2021 – present). Previously, I was an Assistant Professor (Computer Science) at Dalhousie University (2020). I lead the C3 Lab, which explores the design of human-centered technologies to bridge Cultural barriers, improve Collaboration, and build Community. This research resides in the fields of Social Computing, Positive Computing, Inclusive Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Computer-Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW).

Aside from being a researcher, I’m also a fine artist. I was born in China and moved to what is now known as Canada at a young age, developing a love of learning about different cultures and languages. I did my PhD (Informatics) at the University of Zürich in Switzerland (5 years), an internship at NTT Communication Science Labs in Kyoto (4 months), Japan, and lived in Köln, Germany (2 years). My MSc (Computer Science, 2007-2010) and BSc (Computer Science, Co-cop Program, Computer Graphics Concentration, 2002-2007) are from the University of Calgary. I have also worked as a software developer in the Calgary tech industry (2 years).

I am passionate about living a creative, intentional life. In my personal time, I love pondering about self-development, consciousness, spirituality, wellbeing, social good, creativity, and becoming who you were meant to be.  I live in Calgary (Moh’kinsstis), in what is now known as Canada, with my beautiful family. Thanks for stopping by!

In the spirit of respect, reciprocity, and truth, I honour and acknowledge Moh’kinsstis, and the traditional territories of the peoples of Treaty 7, which include the Blackfoot Confederacy (comprised of the Siksika, the Piikani, and the Kainai First Nations), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda (including Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney First Nations). The City of Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3.

The options and views expressed in my website “The Mindful Academic” are purely my own – they do not represent the views of my employer the University of Calgary. 

Contact: helen.he1 [ at ] ucalgary.ca

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenaihe/

University of Calgary webpage: Ucalgary supervisor page

© 2026 Helen Ai He All Rights Reserved