Robin Angelini is a Deaf researcher in computer science and human-computer interaction, currently affiliated with TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology). His work lies at the intersection of Deaf technology, accessibility, speculative design, and critical perspectives on assistive systems.
Early Life and Background
Angelini was born Deaf, and his Deaf identity plays a central role in his research orientation. His family background includes multiple generations of Deaf members: his father and paternal grandparents are also Deaf. He grew up in a bilingual environment — his father is Italian, his mother is German, and both signed (in Italian Sign Language and German Sign Language) as part of daily communication.
Academic Path and Current Position
Angelini studied informatics and human-centered computing before enrolling at TU Wien, where he is a PreDoc researcher in the Informatics department, within the Human-Computer Interaction research group. His work is embedded in the ACCESSTECH project, which focuses on accessibility and digital humanism[1][4].
Research Focus
Angelini’s research agenda centers on reimagining assistive and Deaf technologies from within Deaf epistemologies, rather than simply adapting existing systems for Deaf users. He frequently engages in speculative design, participatory methods, and critical reflection on assistive ideologies[1][3].
Recognition and Awards
In May 2025, TU Wien announced that Angelini had won the Best Paper Award at ACM CHI for his work on Speculating Deaf Tech. The paper critiques dominant assumptions in assistive technologies and advocates for Deaf-centered perspectives[2].
Challenges, Identity, and Vision
Angelini critiques how many assistive systems are framed through medical or audist ideologies and argues for rethinking design “for Deaf people” from within Deaf communities themselves. His vision is to expand the notion of Deaf technology beyond accessibility tools, envisioning technologies that reflect Deaf desires, creativity, and self-determination[1][3].
- TU Wien Informatics. (n.d.). Robin Angelini – People Profile.
- TU Wien Informatics. (2025, May 15). Robin Angelini wins Best Paper Award.
- TUW.media. (2025, May). Robin Angelini: Deaf tech worth wanting.
- ResearchGate. (n.d.). Robin Angelini – Research Profile.
