Current Position(s)
Scientific Researcher at the Institute for Ageing Research at the Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences OST – Profile and projects
Current Projects (Selection)
- Realization of the first Age Innovation Prize together with sponsors EY Switzerland, Margerite GmbH and Switzerland Innovationspark Ost supporting AgeTech innovation and start-ups as part of AGE-INT program (international expertise on life in old age)
- Testing the independent use of the voice-based AI chatbot “Alfred” by Altertainment by older adults living in the retirement home Wohnen am Singenberg funded by Innosuisse innovation cheque
- Website design and support
Past Projects (Selection)
- Usability and accessibility LivingLab 65+ testing and improvement of the smartphone app Easierphone designed for vulnerable users
- Study (applied Master’s thesis) on e-Learning 60+ on OldSchool platform (new: WiseLearn) for the senior’s university Zurich: elaboration of research-based usability and accessibility guidelines for the design of online courses and content for the target group of learners 60+, investigation of needs, design and implementation of an accessible, age-appropriate course.
Background
After graduating in business informatics at the university of applied sciences (2008) and many years of professional experience as an IT project manager at IBM Switzerland, EY Switzerland, and Swiss Life, I completed my Master’s degree in psychology in January 2023 at the University of Zurich. My Master’s thesis on “E-Learning 60+” investigated the needs of seniors in online learning and implemented a course that is age-appropriate and accessible. The successful feedback from the participants served as a catalyst for the expansion of the e-learning offerings of OldSchool.
Today I work as a scientific researcher at the Institute for Ageing Research at the University of Applied Sciences OST, where I focus on technologies for ageing(n). Additionally, I work as a scientific researcher in a clinical research project to improve waiting times in psychotherapy at the University of Zurich and the Psychiatric University Hospital.
Interests
Applied psychological research in the areas of gerontechnology, usability & accessibility in old age, lifelong learning, e-learning, clinical psychology, self-efficacy, well-being, quality of life, and positive psychology