Zihe Ran

Zihe Ran is currently an MSc student at the Oxford Internet Institute. Her research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), social computing, and inclusive design. She is dedicated to exploring how emerging technologies reshape the gaming industry and aims to serve as a bridge builder to identify digital hollowness in this era of rapid technological advancement, while creating equitable experiences for those in need.

Zihe has built a strong academic foundation in the field of game accessibility, with her research published in top-tier conferences such as CHI and ASSETS. Based on her market observations and research into mobile gaming strategies for visually impaired communities, she was honored with the Best Academic Research Award at this year’s GAconf.

Beyond her academic research, Zihe is a cross-disciplinary practitioner with a background in journalism, communication, and artistic creation, having previously interned at People’s Daily and Microsoft Research Asia (MSRA). She aspires to integrate technology and storytelling to develop tools and games that not only address practical barriers but also offer emotional warmth and joy, creating truly impactful projects. She looks forward to engaging with developers, researchers, and players at this conference to collectively explore the future of inclusive gaming.