Suggestions
Matt Cabanag
Associate Lecturer in Immersive Design - PhD Candidate - Multiple International Award Winner
Professional Background
Matt Cabanag is a renowned international award-winning XR designer and developer who has made significant contributions to the fields of immersive design and educational technology. Currently, he holds a part-time position as a tenure-track Associate Lecturer at UNSW Art & Design in Paddington, where he is actively involved in shaping the next generation of designers and developers in the exciting realm of extended reality (XR). Simultaneously, he is completing his PhD at the MARCS Institute at Western Sydney University, focusing on human autonomy teaming and artificial intelligence-assisted human-computer interaction.
In addition to his academic role, Matt also works as a software developer for the Office of the PVC: Education at UNSW, specifically creating innovative XR applications aimed at enhancing educational experiences. His deep understanding and proactive approach to XR technology allow him to blend theory and practice effectively, benefiting both students and faculty alike.
Matt's expertise is underscored by numerous accolades throughout his career. Notably, in 2018, he and his team received the prestigious award for "Best Mission Design" at NASA's global Space Apps Challenge, a competition that attracted thousands of entries from around the world. This recognition highlights his ability to think critically and creatively in high-pressure environments.
His journey in education began over a decade ago, during which he has assumed various roles at Macquarie University and UNSW. Among his notable achievements in academia, he was part of a select team awarded the "Vice Chancellor’s Award for Learning Innovation" at Macquarie University in 2019, celebrating his commitment to enhancing learning through innovative strategies.
Outside the walls of academia, Matt briefly served as the AR/VR Tech Lead at DXC Technology from 2018 to 2019, where he played a vital role in consulting on cutting-edge immersive technologies. His industry experience has provided him with a unique perspective that he brings back to the classroom, enriching the educational experience for his students.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Matt has a fervent passion for artistic endeavors, contributing to public interactive installations for notable events such as the Chatswood Biennale in both 2017 and 2019, as well as participating in the acclaimed Vivid festival in 2018. These projects underscore his commitment to blending art with technology and fostering community engagement through immersive experiences.
Education and Achievements
Matt holds a Doctor of Philosophy in progress, with an emphasis on Human Autonomy Teaming, AI-assisted Human-Computer Interaction, and Human-Machine Interface studies, from Western Sydney University. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Systems from Macquarie University. Additionally, he pursued a Vocational Graduate Diploma in Management at the Academy of Interactive Entertainment, further strengthening his blend of technical acumen and management skills.
His commitment to academic excellence and innovation is reflected in his various academic roles. He has served as both a Lead Application Developer and an Immersive Technologies specialist at UNSW, contributing to the development and implementation of cutting-edge educational resources. Matt has also held positions ranging from Software Developer to Academic Coach for disabled students at Macquarie University, showcasing his flexibility and dedication to supporting diverse learning needs.
Key Achievements
- NASA’s Space Apps Challenge 2018: Awarded "Best Mission Design" for developing innovative solutions as part of a global competition.
- Eric Dybsand Memorial - AI Scholar: Received this prestigious honor in 2014 as a recognition of outstanding contributions in AI, awarded to only one individual worldwide each year by the International Game Developers Association.
- Vice Chancellor’s Award for Learning Innovation (2019): Recognized for exceptional contributions to learning and innovation at Macquarie University.
- Public Interactive Installations: Successfully contributed to interactive artworks for the Chatswood Biennale in 2017 and 2019, and participated in Vivid 2018, demonstrating a commitment to community engagement through art and technology.
- Extensive Academic Experience: Over a decade in various academic roles at Macquarie University and UNSW, enriching the educational landscape and fostering innovation in immersive design.
In summary, Matt Cabanag is a dynamic figure in the bridge between academia, technology, and the arts. With numerous accolades and a robust educational backdrop, he is dedicated to advancing the field of XR and cultivating an enriched educational experience for his students and the broader community. As he continues his journey, there is no doubt that Matt will leave a lasting impact in the fields he is passionate about, shaping the future of immersive design and education.
title
Matt Cabanag's Professional Journey
