Hi, I’m Rakesh Patibanda – an HCI Researcher and UX Professional.

I design interactive systems that challenge how we think about control, agency, and the human body in digital experiences. My research introduces Body-Actuating Play (BAP) – a new paradigm where humans and computers co-direct physical action. Rather than simply responding to the body, these systems move with – and sometimes through – it, enabling new forms of introspection, coordination, and social connection.

I completed my PhD in Computer Science at Monash University in 2024, where I developed the BAP framework to investigate how sharing physical control with technology reshapes our sense of self, agency, and connection with others. Recognised with the Vice-Chancellor’s Commendation for Thesis Excellence, this work informs the design of adaptive interfaces, assistive technologies, self-driving systems, AI-supported decision-making, and co-creative tools that share control between humans and machines.

I’m interested in how emerging technologies, when thoughtfully designed, can help us understand ourselves and each other more deeply, and shape futures that are more embodied, empathetic, and ethically posthuman.

Currently, I am a Research Fellow at the Exertion Games Lab at Monash University.

“The Exertion Games Lab researches the future of play and games to understand how to design better interactive experiences. In particular, we focus on games that put the human body at the centre of the experience. We draw from interaction design, sports, health, psychology, human-computer interaction (HCI) and embodiment thinking to contribute to human-computer interaction.”

Previously, I worked with Prof. Nadia Bianchi-Berthouze at UCL Interaction Centre as a visiting researcher.

“UCLIC is a world-leading Centre of Excellence for research and teaching in human-computer interaction, studying interactions between people and technology, drawing on the best scientific traditions in Computer Science and Human Sciences, and working collaboratively with the research community and industry.”

Previously, as a visiting researcher, I collaborated with the HCI Games Group, part of the Games Institute, University of Waterloo.

“The HCI Games Group, directed by Professor Lennart Nacke, conducts research in information and communication technologies, design, psychology, and human-computer interaction related to games and gamification. We are part of Waterloo HCI and located at the Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business and the Games Institute.”

Previously, I collaborated with the Thing Lab, University of Colorado Boulder.

“The Transformative Human Interfaces for the Next Generation (THING) Lab, directed by Daniel Leithinger, employs shape-changing materials, novel sensors, and unique design methods to make digital information tangible, paving the way for a new generation of interactivity that goes beyond sight and sound.”

Previously, I collaborated with Breathing Labs to create virtual reality breathing exercise games.

“Breathing Labs is a company that produces interfaces for breathing exercises. Their product, BREATHING+, is being used in both clinical and home environments to alleviate stress, improve stamina, control asthma symptoms, and enhance recovery after illness or surgery.”

Previously, I consulted with 7 Cups, an online mental health service, to design their gamified platform.

“7 Cups is an on-demand emotional health service and online therapy provider. Our bridging technology anonymously & securely connects real people to real listeners in one-on-one chat. Anyone who wants to talk about whatever is on their mind can quickly reach out to a trained, compassionate listener through our network. We have hundreds of listeners who come from all walks of life and have diverse experiences.”

Previously, I co-founded GoLive Games and worked as the lead user experience designer and researcher, designing, producing and publishing games.

“At GoLive Games Studios AG, we publish casual and mid-core strategy MMO and CCG games. We strive to bring together three core principles vital to mobile games: Game production, publishing & distribution, and building core engineering platforms.

Supported by dedicated advisors, our development team consists of over 35 passionate members, all of whom work to cultivate an ecosystem of game development studios, performance & brand marketers, art studios and IP owners. Over the next year, we’re proud to roll out over 50 new games.”