Dr Diar Abdlkarim

PhD University of Birmingham, School of Psychology, Neurorehabilitation UK 

MSc University of Birmingham, School of Psychology, Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Robotics (CNCR), UK

Dr Diar Abdlkarim is a postdoctoral research scientist at the University of Birmingham, where he leads work at the intersection of immersive extended reality (XR), sensorimotor neuroscience, and human–technology interaction. With a PhD in computational neuroscience focused on motor control and neuroplasticity in VR-based environments, his research explores how multisensory feedback and motion capture technologies can be leveraged to study and enhance human behaviour in interactive settings. He holds an MSc in Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Robotics (with distinction) and a BSc in Neuroscience, bringing a multidisciplinary approach to his work across psychology, computer science, and engineering. 

Diar has contributed to multiple high-impact collaborations, including research positions at Meta Reality Labs, where he developed experimental paradigms for haptic feedback and embodied interaction. At Birmingham, he co-leads initiatives in XR development, including the design and delivery of hands-on XR and motion capture training programmes for graduate researchers and staff, promoting the integration of immersive technologies in scientific inquiry. He has supervised over 30 MSc and undergraduate projects and contributes to teaching in computational neuroscience and machine learning. 

In addition to his academic roles, Diar co-founded Obi Robotics Ltd, developing one of the most advanced all-in-one wireless data gloves for applications in VR, health, and robotics. He is also director of Motion Dynamics Ltd, a spinout focused on AI-driven mobile sports analytics. His work has been supported by EPSRC, Innovate UK, Google, and BBSRC, with recent funding supporting novel tools for text entry in XR, adaptive touch assessment systems, and biofeedback devices for wellbeing.

Dr Abdlkarim’s research has been published in top venues including CHI, Behavior Research Methods, and Scientific Reports. He actively builds cross-disciplinary communities, such as BhamXR, and collaborates with academic and industry partners to translate research into deployable tools. His overarching goal is to develop scientifically grounded technologies that improve human performance, rehabilitation, and digital interaction.

• Mind, Brain and Models (Postgraduate, MSc): Teaching assistant and project supervisor. Supports student learning in computational neuroscience, machine learning, and cognitive modelling.
• XR Crash Course for Scientists (Postgraduate/Staff Development): Creator and lead instructor. A hands-on one-week intensive training programme in immersive extended reality development for scientific research. Delivered to over 90 participants from various disciplines.
• Motion Capture Crash Course (Postgraduate/Staff Development): Creator and lead instructor. A multi-day practical course covering motion capture system setup, data acquisition, processing, and application in HCI and rehabilitation contexts.
• Supervision: Supervisor for over 30 undergraduate and MSc students (Psychology, CNCR, and Computer Science), with projects spanning virtual reality interaction, mobile technologies, and human–machine interfaces.

If you are interested in working on a PhD project in sensorimotor control, haptics, or human–computer interaction, please email Diar Abdlkarim (d.abdlkarim@bham.ac.uk) with your CV and a description of your research interest(s).

PhD title

Assessment and rehabilitation to retrain upper limb function

Diar Abdlkarim’s current research focuses on immersive XR systems for real-time sensory feedback, motor training, and human–technology interaction, supported by EPSRC and industry collaborators. Previous work includes developing haptic interfaces and experimental XR simulations at Meta Reality Labs, and creating mobile-based touch assessment tools and AI-driven sports analytics through Innovate UK and Google-funded projects. His broader research interests span motion capture, neuroplasticity, hand tracking, and rehabilitation technologies.

Diar is the co-founder of a UK based technology company that looks at the application of autonomous vehicles for industrial surveying applications in construction and mining. Diar is currently co-supervising an MSc student with a final year project in developing a mobile ground-air autonomous system.