We are a dynamic research group in the Faculty of Science (Computer Science) at the Ontario Tech University.
Our lab operates at the exciting intersection of modeling and simulation of virtual characters, human-building interaction, serious games, and immersive crowds and environments. We specialize in developing sophisticated computational models designed to realistically simulate and interpret complex human behaviors within crowds. These models have broad applications, ranging from immersive games and interactive virtual environments to smart architectural designs and emergency evacuation planning. Leveraging advanced VR frameworks, we systematically evaluate how crowds perceive and interact with digital spaces, enabling a deeper understanding of human behavior and enhancing the accuracy of simulations. We utilize crowds as dynamic instruments for data-driven evaluation of 3D digital twin environments, thereby bridging the gap between simulated scenarios and real-world applications.
We are also working with embodiment in VR within shared virtual spaces, where virtual characters and embodied users coexist and interact through deeply immersive experiences. Our efforts focus on ensuring these interactions are highly realistic, incorporating nuanced social behaviors and photorealistic virtual characters. Our integrative approach not only contributes to the scientific foundations of crowd dynamics but also fosters the development of practical tools for safer, more intuitive, and emotionally-responsive virtual spaces.
We are looking for passionate new Masters and PhD students to join the team (more info) !
21 August 2025
Our paper has been accepted at EMNLP 2025 in the main track! 🎉🎉🎉
The Cardiverse: Harnessing LLMs for Novel Card Game Prototyping, a LLM-based pipeline designed to assist human designers in card game prototyping. Our work integrates game mechanic design, code generation, and gameplay AI creation into a cohesive framework.
Great collaboration with the Intelligent Visual Interfaces Lab at Rutgers! Congratulations to all the co-authors: Danrui Li, Sen Zhang, Samuel S. Sohn, and Mubbasir Kapadia.
Link of paper: https://arxiv.org/abs/2502.07128
18 August 2025
We are hiring! Our lab is looking for creative, enthusiastic individuals eager to push the boundaries of crowd simulation, virtual reality, and interactive digital environments. We are generally looking for individuals with skillset in tools and platforms like Unreal Engine, Unity3D, VR/AR toolkits, 3D character modeling, motion capture, and other related technologies. If you have the background, we’d love to hear from you!
01 August 2025
Our lab is officially starting at OntarioTech…
15 July 2025
Our survey paper on Large Language Models is finally published in ACM Transactions on Intelligent Systems and Technology. Congratulations to the team!
01 July 2025
Dr. Usman has joined the Faculty of Science (Computer Science) at Ontario Tech University!