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About

Don Samitha Elvitigala is a pioneering researcher in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), with a distinctive focus on WaterHCI—the intersection of interactive technology, humans, and aquatic environments. His work addresses the grand challenges of designing systems that enhance, rather than disrupt, the unique benefits of water-based activities. Elvitigala’s most cited paper, “Grand challenges in WaterHCI” (2024, 19 citations), lays foundational groundwork for this emerging subfield, exploring augmented reality for snorkelers, virtual reality in floatation tanks, and underwater interfaces. Beyond WaterHCI, his contributions span wearable sensing and interactive systems that bridge digital and physical experiences. With a growing citation impact, Elvitigala is recognized for shaping how technology can safely and meaningfully integrate with water—a domain often overlooked in mainstream HCI. His work not only advances theoretical frameworks but also inspires practical innovations for recreation, therapy, and environmental interaction. For students and researchers, Elvitigala’s research offers a compelling vision of how interactive technology can deepen human engagement with natural elements, opening new frontiers for design and exploration in aquatic contexts.