Thesis Title
Understanding the Influence of Search Interfaces and User Diversity on User Search Behaviour and Query Formulation

Research Description
The way people access digital information has transformed dramatically with the rise of diverse search interfaces beyond traditional web browsers. Shuoqi’s research explores how these emerging tools—voice assistants, generative AI-powered search systems, social media platforms, etc.—impact users’ information needs, query formulation processes, and the quality and diversity of search results.

This transformation has introduced new complexities, creating an urgent need to understand how the additional contextual information in modern search systems influences query variation and how personal or demographic factors play a role. Shuoqi’s work directly addresses these challenges by examining their impact on user search behavior and system performance.

He researches the intersection of information retrieval (IR) and web search systems, with an emphasis on conversational search and interactive IR (IIR). Through his work, he aims to develop frameworks that deepen our understanding of user-system interactions across varied search contexts, paving the way for more responsive, inclusive, and effective information retrieval systems.

Supervisors
Dr. Danula Hettiachchi, RMIT University
Dr. Damiano Spina, RMIT University