Denise Quesnel Email & Phone Number

I am an immersive realities researcher who has been actively involved in this field since 2009 and currently pursuing my PhD at iSpace Lab at SFU. I explore how contemplative practices of compassion and positive emotion cultivation like awe and wonder, combined with social support, can be optimized into therapeutic virtual reality (VR) experiences for both clinical and non-clinical populations. To understand how this approach may enhance positive life trajectories and flourishing of vulnerable groups, I draw upon interdisciplinary knowledge and community-engaged research methodologies from computer science, clinical sciences, and contemplative sciences. This ensures a comprehensive and holistic approach to the study of digital health technology and therapeutics that centers equity. As a researcher, I have a personal investment in this field. Having witnessed firsthand the profound health and social inequities experienced by individuals with chronic physical conditions, I am driven to address unmet mental/physical health and well-being needs. Knowledge stems from my current and prior activities in scientific research/R&D, creative industries, volunteer advocacy work, and life experiences. This informs my commitment to explore VR as a therapeutic intervention within care systems, understanding how technology can help facilitate compassion, understanding, inter-connectivity for ourselves, one another, and our planet. I only use methodological approaches aimed at empowering people with lived experience as experts throughout all phases of research, e.g.: Patient-oriented research. Centering their expertise and knowledge as co-designers and co-creators may improve effectiveness and transferability of VR interventions across diverse populations. My 2017 TEDxSFU talk describes more about this personal approach: https://youtu.be/xsRzjUoSbE0 As an advocate, I see scientific research as a powerful tool to amplify advocacy efforts and make potential solutions accessible for individuals and communities. As an active volunteer with service to the global community, I volunteer as an individual and with non-profit organizations involved in health care and technology advocacy and policymaking, e.g.: Regional Advocate at Cystic Fibrosis Canada; Peer mentor; former creator/chair at SIGGRAPH Conferences VR Village. Overall, my work encompasses rigorous scientific inquiry and a broader commitment to advocacy, accessibility, and the well-being of individuals and communities.