29 Jan 2026 @B3 Building
Crafting Your Research Methodology: Lessons from ‘Realising What Really Matters
Kimmi Keum Hee Ko,
Industrial Design Lecturer at RMIT University, Australia
6.00 PM (CET)
B3 Building, Campus Durando
Abstract
This lecture explores the research behind my PhD project and the role of design research in promoting health, wellbeing, and quality of life. Using the artificial heart pump as a case study, I will demonstrate how design research informs problem framing, solution development, and systemic thinking in complex healthcare contexts. The project focuses not only on advancing technology—making devices smaller, lighter, and more durable—but also on enhancing the experience and wellbeing of patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Attendees will gain insights into how design research can guide meaningful innovation in multidisciplinary healthcare projects.
Bio of Kimmi Keum Hee Ko
Kimmi’s work explores the role of design in driving innovation, particularly in the areas of health and wellbeing, sustainable design, social impact, and design pedagogy. She holds a Bachelor of Industrial Design, a Master of Design, and a Master of Philosophy from the University of New South Wales (Australia) and along with studies in Product Service System Design at Politecnico di Milano (Italy). She earned her PhD from The University of Queensland (Australia).
Her research investigates how design led innovation processes can improve life-saving medical technologies, with a particular focus on digital interventions for Ventricular Assist Devices (artificial heart pumps). Her work is interdisciplinary and widely published (H-index: 8). Kimmi received international recognition through the Y Nose International Fellowship, becoming the first designer to be honoured at the 65th American Society of Artificial Internal Organs (ASAIO) Conference in San Francisco, where she also received a conference award. Her PhD was supported by the NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence (CRE) in Advanced Cardio-respiratory Therapies Improving Organ Support (ACTIONS).
Kimmi began her career in the creative industries, gaining over a decade of experience working with clients across government, telecommunications, IT, finance, and automotive sectors. Her work spanned physical environments, product design, and digital engagement—integrated to enhance user experience and improve service delivery. Kimmi I also worked as a Lead Service Experience Designer at the NSW Department of Education, applying human-centred, evidence-based, and Agile/Lean methods to deliver impactful solutions.
Kimmi is deeply committed to high-quality student and supervisory experiences. She has extensive teaching experience at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, grounded in a strong student-centred philosophy. Her teaching focuses on positive learning environments, inclusive practice, and strong employability outcomes. She is dedicated to supporting and inspiring students from diverse educational, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds.
