My name is Stefan Schmager. I am a Human-Centered AI scholar and practitioner who brings Human-Centered Design and Responsible AI together.
My multifaceted background merges industry experience, academic diligence, and governmental domain knowledge. I combine practical hands-on experience with theoretical knowledge and the commitment to advance a more responsible AI future in Europe and beyond. In my doctoral research, I explore the integration of Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HCAI) within the public service. In my research, I defined actionable HCAI guidelines for the ethical and trustworthy design, development, and governance of AI operations.
Before starting my PhD, I worked for over a decade as a User Experience and Interaction Designer in various international software companies, startups, design agencies, and academic research projects. In these roles, I contributed to various AI-infused development projects, allowing me to experience how Human-Centered Thinking constitutes a crucial asset to ensure a responsible and trustworthy use of artificial intelligence systems. I worked closely with data scientists, engineers, and researchers on technologies like computer vision, natural language processing, and recommendation systems.
I hold a dual M.Sc. in Interaction Design from the Cyprus University of Technology and Tallinn University in Estonia and a B.A. in Information Design from the Stuttgart Media University, Germany. Before my career as a Human-Centered Designer, I worked for over six years at the German Federal Employment Agency, as a Specialist in labor promotion and an international job advisor.
Driven by my eagerness for tangible change, coupled with my robust foundation in both theory and practical application, I am convinced that my unique blend of skills can directly influence the development of policies and practices that ensure AI serves as a force for the public good.