Hello! I’m Huanfeng Yeh. During my Computer Science master's studies at Northeastern University, ChatGPT completely changed my academic journey, providing a more effective way to learn and approach challenges. However, it wasn’t until I introduced it to my family that I realized its dual impact: while empowering some, it inadvertently leaves others behind. I saw my parents—intelligent yet unfamiliar with such technology—struggle to connect with it. Recognizing AI's transformative power and its growing ubiquity, I am driven to design inclusive, human-centered AI solutions that bridge this divide, ensuring empowerment for users of all backgrounds and abilities.

Transition to Computer Science

My mission to design inclusive technology began during my undergraduate studies at National Changhua University of Education. As a research assistant, I developed robotic teaching systems for students with autism, an experience that revealed technology's transformative power as a bridge for communication and learning. While my background in Electrical Engineering provided a solid technical foundation, I realized that software offered greater flexibility and scalability to address these challenges on a larger, more impactful scale. This realization drove my transition to Computer Science and culminated in my Master's degree from Northeastern University.

Eager to deepen my expertise in Human-Centered AI, I actively pursued advanced coursework and research opportunities. Despite not meeting formal prerequisites, I successfully petitioned to join Professor Dakuo Wang’s Human-Centered AI Seminar, leveraging my undergraduate foundation in Artificial Intelligence to secure a spot. This course proved transformative, allowing me to research the application of generative AI chatbots in educational settings. I examined both their immense potential and their limitations, particularly in addressing accessibility needs. Remarkably, many of the features and patterns my research identified were later reflected in updates to ChatGPT just a few months afterward. This coincidence emphasized the importance of research that anticipates and addresses the needs of diverse users in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Academic and Research Growth

Besides from the experience, I participated in a research project from Empirical Research course investigating the impact of cognitive games on focus and performance. This experience further demonstrated my ability to design user-centered studies, analyze complex data, and translate findings into actionable insights. It reinforced my commitment to leveraging technology to address real-world challenges.

Professional Experience and Practical Applications

My professional experiences have shaped my commitment to inclusive technology. At Code for Boston, I contributed to the MAPLE web app, improving its reliability and efficiency. This work, combined with personal projects in mobile app development, deepened my understanding of how user interfaces shape user experiences. Currently, at MAPLE, a nonprofit platform for simply view and submitting legislative testimony to Massachusetts Legislature about the bills, I have witnessed firsthand how accessibility in digital platforms can either empower or hinder engagement, particularly for underrepresented communities. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to create intelligent systems that are equitable and accessible to all.

Research Interests and Future Goals

My goal in pursuing a PhD in Computer Science is to develop intelligent systems and interfaces that adapt to the needs of users, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly and individuals with disabilities. I aim to explore how AI, machine learning, and robotics can be harnessed to create intuitive, responsive user experiences, enabling individuals to engage with the world in ways previously out of reach. Coming from Taiwan and a background in Electrical Engineering, I bring a unique interdisciplinary perspective and cultural lens to this work, which I believe will enrich research and innovation in this field."

• Languages: Python, Java, JavaScript, C, C++, HTML/CSS, Bash
• Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB
• Frameworks: ReactJS, Django, Angular, React Native
• Tools & Technologies: Git, Docker, AWS, Heroku, JIRA, Playwright