Pascal Knierim

Pascal Knierim

Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Human-Computer Interaction

Associate Dean of Studies (Computer Science, BA and Extension Degree Programme) 

+43 512 507 53488

pascal.knierim@uibk.ac.at

ICT, Room 3N08

pascalknierim.de

I am a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Human-Computer Interaction at the University of Innsbruck and Associate Dean of Studies for the Bachelor’s and Extension Degree Programs in Computer Science.

My research investigates how interactive technologies can be designed to be usable, secure, and socially responsible. I am particularly interested in interaction with mixed-reality systems, the effects of immersive technologies on human perception and behavior, and the opportunities and risks that arise when digital content becomes embedded in physical environments.

Before joining the University of Innsbruck, I worked as a postdoctoral researcher and lecturer in the Usable Security and Privacy Group at the University of the Bundeswehr Munich. I received my PhD in Computer Science from LMU Munich in 2020, where I investigated input and output techniques for mobile and pervasive mixed-reality experiences.

I supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s theses in human-computer interaction, mixed reality, ubiquitous computing, and usable security. Students interested in conducting a thesis in these areas are welcome to contact me with a brief description of their interests, relevant experience, and preferred timeframe.

Areas of Research:
  • Mixed Reality and XR Interaction
  • Usable Security and Privacy
  • Deceptive, Persuasive, and Responsible Design
  • Ubiquitous and Context-Aware Computing

Associate Dean of Studies

As Associate Dean of Studies, I am responsible for the Bachelor’s and Extension Programs in Computer Science. My duties include advising on formal academic matters, reviewing requests for the recognition and allocation of examinations, and supporting the implementation of program and examination regulations.

Please consult the information on recognition and allocation of examinations before requesting an appointment. The page provides details about the relevant procedures, required documents, and available forms.

For matters that require an individual consultation, you can book an appointment online.

Selected Recent Research

Avalanche Rescue Training in Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality for Avalanche Rescue Training

We investigate how immersive training can support the acquisition of procedures and decision-making skills in high-stakes environments. Our recent ISMAR work compared virtual-reality training with traditional avalanche-rescue instruction.

Knierim, Pascal, Anna-Lena Hetzenauer, and Christoph Sitar. "Transforming Avalanche Rescue Training: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Training in High-Stakes Environments." 2025 IEEE International Symposium on Mixed and Augmented Reality (ISMAR). IEEE, 2025. DOI: 10.1109/ISMAR67309.2025.00139

Smartwatch-Based Touch Gesture Recognition for Interaction in Extended Reality
Smartwatch-based Interaction for Extended Reality

We explore how everyday wearable devices can provide subtle and accessible input for XR. Wrist-Powered Touch uses smartwatch motion data to recognize touch gestures performed on the hand.

Knierim, Pascal, Jacob Höck, and Thomas Kosch. "Wrist-Powered Touch: Evaluating Smartwatch-Based Touch Gesture Recognition for Interaction in Extended Reality." Proceedings of the Mensch und Computer 2025. 2025. 345-353. DOI: 10.1145/3743049.3743090

For a complete and up-to-date list of publications, see my Google Scholar profile.

Teaching

Winter Semester 2026/2027
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