Güvenç Özel is an architect and design researcher acclaimed for his innovations in Extended Reality (XR), interactive robotics, and machine learning within architecture. A native of Turkey, Özel holds a Master of Architecture from Yale University and a Bachelor of Arts in architecture, sculpture, and philosophy from Bennington College. As the founder of Ozel Office and a founding faculty member of UCLA’s IDEAS program, he spearheads research into dynamic, responsive environments. His groundbreaking work includes the first architectural application of augmented reality, robotic architecture controlled by brain-computer interfaces, and award-winning mixed-reality installations. Notable achievements, such as a top prize at NASA’s 3D Printed Habitats Competition for Mars missions and his projects featured at venues like the Venice Architecture Biennale and Sundance Film Festival, highlight his influential role in design. Özel’s recent accolades include recognition from Hillary Clinton and collaborations with tech giants like Google and Microsoft.