Erica Babb

Ph.D. Candidate
Biomedical Health Informatics
Indiana University Indianapolis

I am a Ph.D. candidate in the Biomedical and Health Informatics program at Indiana University (IU) Indianapolis, where I am advised by Dr. Hee-tae Jung. My research focuses on sociotechnical health informatics for people living with dementia, with an emphasis on technology-supported autonomy, everyday functioning, and purposeful engagement.

Using qualitative and mixed-methods approaches, I study how technologies are used in everyday life and the factors that shape their long-term success. My research considers not only technical design and outcomes, but also the relationships, routines, and support systems that make technologies usable and sustainable over time. Centering the voices of people living with dementia, I aim to advance systems that support active participation in meaningful occupation, community contribution, and advocacy.

Prior to my Ph.D. studies, I earned my M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction and my B.S. in Media Arts and Science at IU Indianapolis, which have provided a foundation in user-centered design, usability, and technical practice that continues to inform my current research.