In line with their mission to support the development of Qatar’s  innovation and technology capacity, Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) and the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) are to stage the 1st International Conference on Visualization and Computer-Human Interaction (VisCHI). Registration is now open for Qatar-based communities of researchers and scientists in the field.

Funded by Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF), and with the support of leading Qatari education organizations, VisCHI brings together experts and users of scientific and data visualization as well as computer-human interaction technologies. The event will highlight research conducted in Qatar and frame discussions in a local and global context. A workshop will enable participants to discuss issues with guest speakers in a more intimate setting.

The workshop will also host a hackathon and reveal the results of a poster competition. In the case of the hackathon, participants will be tasked with designing effective visualization for real-world data using relevant programming skills and technologies. In the poster competition, students and researchers from Education City will present cutting edge research involving visualization, visual digital design, and computer-human interaction. Both will be judged by an international jury with the best entries awarded at the conference. 

Speaking ahead of the conference, Dr. Michael Aupetit, a senior scientist at QCRI, said: “This event will do more than just demonstrate Qatar’s place at the forefront of key discussions and issues shaping visualization and computer-human interaction. Through its mix of discussions and competitions, VisCHI is also about shaping future debates and key technologies. To assist, we’ve invited a set of speakers that balance international expertise with local know-how. 

“In addition to QNRF, I’d also like to pay tribute to the other organizations supporting VisCHI. Thanks to the inputs of Qatar Smart Program (TASMU), Qatar University and Texas A&M University at Qatar, we’re confident that participants will come away with a more-rounded understanding of the ideas and technologies on show.”

Dr. Mounir Hamdi, Dean of CSE, added: “VisCHI represents another chance to underline CSE’s commitment to having a positive impact on Qatar, the region, and globally in the fields of science, engineering, and technology. We’re looking forward to welcoming and networking with our panelists and participants.”

The 1st International Conference on Visualization and Computer-Human Interaction will take place from 8:00am to 6:00pm on November 25 and 26 at  Multaqa (Ballroom 1,2,3), Education City Student Center. To register to attend, please visit hbku.edu.qa/en/vischi 

Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) regularly holds events to highlight its research activities and projects.