Paul-Peter Arslan
HCI Researcher · Embodied Interaction · Neurorehabilitation
Current Position
Visiting Research Student
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) — Media Lab
Working on the Tangible Co-Ideation project — designing embodied prompting interfaces for creative thinking with Large Language Models, in collaboration with Prof. Hiroshi Ishii's Tangible Media Group.
Coursework: 4.043 Design Studio: Interaction Intelligence — Teleabsence (Prof. Hiroshi Ishii), Design Intelligence (Prof. Marcelo Coelho)
Award: Winner of the Connect track at MIT Hard Mode: Hardware AI Hackathon (2026) with IPheromone
Education
Ph.D. — Interaction Design & Neurorehabilitation
Institute for Future Technologies / Neuroscience Institute Paris
Supervisors: Dr. Xiao Xiao (Institute for Future Technologies / MIT), Dr. Pavel Lindberg (INSERM)
Master Degree in Innovation, Research & Manufacturing
IFT ESILV Leonard da Vinci Engineering School, Paris
GPA: 3.2 / 4
Relevant Coursework: Advanced Algorithms, Big Data Infrastructure, Deep Machine Learning, Computer Graphics, Soft and Active Matter.
International Exchange
UQAC, Canada
GPA: 3.96 / 4
Focus: Web development, statistic computing, marketing.
Research Experience
Ph.D. Researcher
2023 – PresentInstitute for Future Technologies / Neuroscience Institute Paris
- HD-EMG & AI: Developed continuous proportional decoding of finger forces using 224-channel HD-EMG and CNN-LSTM architectures (R² > 0.75).
- ReTouche: Designed an AR piano learning system with embodied feedback; validated via comparative study (n=18) and autoethnography.
- Rhythm Karaoke: Created a high-resolution metrics engine for fine motor timing precision using the Dextrain Manipulandum.
Research Engineer
Mar 2020 – Aug 2020Learning Planet Institute, Interdisciplinary Research Center, Paris
- Developed a pedagogical concept to teach math to children through games.
- Created games with Unity for application in a connected gymnasium.
- Managed mobile application development.
Teaching Experience
Instructor for Master Students
- Web Development Course: Taught modern web technologies and frameworks.
- AI Class with Bio-sensors: Led practical sessions on processing HD-EMG signals with Deep Learning.
- Research Workshops: Mentored students on research methodologies and prototyping.
Chess Instructor
LCE Chess Club (2007-2018)
- Certified by the French Federation (DIFF certificate).
- Instructed a senior class of 10 students.
- Elo rating: 1880.
Professional Experience
Co-Founder & Developer
Sept 2020 – Aug 2021DEVO (Robotic Startup), Paris
- Created and developed a company focused on autonomous mobile robots (Visual SLAM).
- Developed front-end interface and back-end to manage a robot swarm.
- Produced commercial website and promotional video.
Electronic Engineer (Intern)
Jun 2019 – Jul 2019Usine.io - STATION F, Paris
- Coached 8 teams of 6 students for the IMT Artificial Intelligence Challenge.
- Fast prototyping with 3D printing, laser cutting, and electronics.
Developer & Project Manager
Jun 2018 – Aug 2018Instant Gaming, Barcelona
- Created a new swimming pool alarm system using Raspberry Pi, Electronics, and Machine Learning.
- Managed project timeline and communication with management.
Skills
Programming & Tech
Engineering & Design
Languages
- French: Native
- English: Fluent (academic writing & presentations)
- Spanish: Conversational
- Lebanese:
Leadership & Activities
Eagles, ESILV US Football Team (2017-2018)
Wide Receiver. University French Champion 2017.
Slide Session - Ski Association (2017-2019)
Organized travel for 150 students (Paris to Alps), managed logistics and security.
Sports
Rugby, Skiing, Swimming, Krav Maga (Blue belt, trained with Alain Formaggio).