Daniel Keefe
Professor, Dept. of Computer Science & Engineering, University of Minnesota
Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 3:00-4:00 PM ET (1:00-2:00 PM MT)
Gaithersburg 101 LR-A* w/ VTC to Boulder 1-4020
A video of this talk will be made available to NIST staff in the Math channel on NISTube, which is accessible from the NIST internal home page. It will be taken down from NISTube after 12 months at which point it can be requested by emailing the ACMD Seminar Chair.
Abstract: As eXtended Reality (XR) moves from entertainment into "high stakes" scientific domains, the requirements for human-data interaction (HDI) shift from mere engagement to rigorous precision and collaborative discovery. This talk explores the technical challenges of creating immersive data experiences where outcomes have significant real-world impact, such as planning patient-specific radiation treatments and understanding supercomputer-scale simulations. We present a framework for navigating the XR continuum—from fully virtual environments used by physicians to "data physicalization" techniques that encode spatial data into tangible 3D objects. Key technical innovations include Artifact-Based Rendering for expressive scientific visualization, bimanual 3D user interfaces for complex data manipulation, and cross-reality interfaces that support seamless transitions between physical and digital work. By centering the interaction between human expertise and multidimensional data, we demonstrate how XR can transform scientific inquiry into a more intuitive, collaborative, and effective process.
Bio: Daniel Keefe is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science & Engineering and a Distinguished University Teaching Professor at the University of Minnesota, where he leads the Interactive Visualization Lab. His research program focuses on inventing and studying human-data interaction technologies to advance high-stakes societal goals in science, medicine, and engineering. Professor Keefe’s work is characterized by a "driving-problem" approach, partnering with experts—from medical physicists at the Mayo Clinic to climate scientists—to solve complex technical problems through immersive technology. He is a recipient of multiple awards, including a recent IEEE VIS Best Paper honorable mention for his work on data physicalization. His transdisciplinary scholarship bridges computer graphics, spatial user interfaces, and traditional artistic media to create more expressive and legible visualizations of complex data.
Host: Simon Su
Note: This talk will be recorded to provide access to NIST staff and associates who could not be present to the time of the seminar. The recording will be made available in the Math channel on NISTube, which is accessible only on the NIST internal network. This recording could be released to the public through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. Do not discuss or visually present any sensitive (CUI/PII/BII) material. Ensure that no inappropriate material or any minors are contained within the background of any recording. (To facilitate this, we request that cameras of attendees are muted except when asking questions.)
*Safety Precaution: The hallway leading from the Courtyard to the exit closest to B-111 and B-113 will be used by contractors to move debris, machinery, and other supplies, as well as will be heavily trafficked by the contractors throughout the process. Be aware of the safety precautions posted during this time.
Note: Visitors from outside NIST must contact Meliza Lane at least 24 hours in advance.
