Desiree Riny

Desiree Riny

Desiree Riny

PhD Teaching Fellow

Department of Design


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Desiree Riny is a PhD Candidate with the Design Health Collab at Monash University and a PhD Teaching Fellow in the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture. Their research focuses on improving the long-term usability of assistive technologies for individuals with physical disabilities, with an emphasis on co-design, making, and digital fabrication.

Many assistive technology systems struggle to adapt to users’ evolving needs, often leading to technological abandonment and significant accessibility gaps. Through a participatory, iterative design approach, Riny explores how digital fabrication can create more personalized and adaptable solutions. Their work aims to ensure that assistive devices not only enhance functionality and usability but also improve the independence and well-being of those who rely on them.

Riny is deeply committed to advancing healthcare design through interdisciplinary collaboration. They work closely with end-users, clinicians, and fabricators to ensure that assistive devices evolve alongside the individuals they serve. Motivated by the belief that well-designed assistive technologies can profoundly enhance quality of life, Riny’s research empowers individuals with disabilities to live more independently and with greater dignity.

Their research is supported by the Research Training Scholarship funded by the Australian Government, which enables Riny to pursue their studies while contributing to the development of more accessible, adaptive assistive technologies.

As a PhD Teaching Fellow, Riny is equally passionate about mentorship and teaching, guiding students while learning from their unique perspectives. Their research and teaching practices are mutually enriching, grounded in their commitment to human-centered design and accessibility.

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