Team single

MariVersa was founded by a researcher and innovator working at the intersection of immersive technology, human-computer interaction, and assistive systems.

He holds a Ph.D. in Computational Media Design from the University of Calgary, where his work focused on developing immersive systems to support independent living for seniors with dementia through interdisciplinary collaboration across computer science, healthcare, and design.

He later held a postdoctoral position at the University of Calgary, with joint appointments at the Schulich School of Engineering and the Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute. His work has been supported by organizations including NSERC, Alberta Innovates, and ACHRI, and has involved large-scale collaborations across North America.

During this time, he led the development of immersive communication systems for nonspeaking autistic individuals, including projects such as HoloBoard and LetterBox. These systems were designed and evaluated in collaboration with experts in speech-language pathology, psychology, neuroscience, and special education, with real-world testing across Canada and the United States. His work has received international recognition, including coverage in IEEE Spectrum (Biomedical section).

Vision and Approach

His work is grounded in a simple idea:

Technology should adapt to people—not the other way around.

He focuses on building systems that understand human behavior through natural interaction—capturing signals such as gaze, movement, and spatial interaction to create more responsive and accessible technologies.

Through MariVersa, this vision expands into:

• assistive communication technologies
• immersive training and simulation systems
• behavior-aware interactive platforms

Personal Motivation

As an immigrant and first-generation academic of Syrian origin, his work is shaped by a deep commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Growing up in a family connected to education and communication—through work in child development and sign language—he developed an early understanding that communication is a fundamental human right.

This belief continues to guide his work today.

Beyond Technology

Alongside his research, he remains actively engaged in community and advocacy work. He has supported autism-focused initiatives, mentored neurodivergent students, and collaborated with local organizations to provide accessible creative services.

He also explores storytelling through media. His recent short documentary, “Everyone Deserves a Voice,” highlights the experiences of nonspeaking autistic individuals and the role of research in supporting them.

Looking Ahead

Through MariVersa, he is working to bring research into real-world impact—building technologies that support independence, expand communication, and better understand human behavior in everyday life.