Hi, I am Isabella.

I am PhD candidate in the Human-Centered Computing group at the Department of Information and Computing Sciences at Utrecht University.  

My PhD focuses on using AI to support groups of students working together. I research ways to improve group wellbeing among students using AI, focusing on detecting issues as soon as they arise, supporting teacher interventions, and ensuring students feel continually supported throughout their projects. 

With a background in psychology, I’m passionate about understanding how we interact with machines in our everyday lives, especially regarding social and emotional support. 

I’m also interested in using persuasive technologies to foster positive behavior changes, mixing insights from positive psychology and computer science to create meaningful, user-centered solutions. By combining positive psychology with computer science, I am passionate about designing tools and systems that can empower people and improve well-being. 

Alongside my research, I am passionate about good books, writing short stories, and contemporary dance.