Samory Houzangbe

About

Samory Houzangbe is a researcher at the forefront of human-computer interaction, specializing in immersive virtual environments (IVEs) and the psychology of embodiment. His work critically examines how the visual fidelity of avatars—from robotic forms to hyper-realistic virtual doppelgangers—shapes a user’s sense of presence, identity, and behavior. His most influential publication, “From Robot to Virtual Doppelganger: Impact of Visual Fidelity of Avatars… on Embodiment and Behavior” (2019), has garnered 86 citations, establishing a foundational framework for understanding the “truthfulness” factor in avatar design. This work demonstrates that higher visual similarity between a user and their avatar significantly enhances embodiment and influences real-world actions. Houzangbe’s research is pivotal for the development of more effective virtual reality therapies, training simulations, and social platforms, where a strong sense of self in a digital body is critical. By systematically deconstructing the link between appearance and experience, he provides essential insights for engineers and psychologists alike, making him a key voice in the evolution of next-generation immersive technologies.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   From Robot to Virtual Doppelganger: Impact of Visual Fidelity of Avatars Controlled in Third-Person Perspective on Embodiment and Behavior in Immersive Virtual Environments

   86 citations · 2019
2. 2
   From robot to virtual doppelganger

   12 citations · 2018

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links