Bidirectional Alignment
Designing systems that help users interpret, adapt to, and meaningfully engage with AI behavior—while enabling AI models to continuously refine their understanding of user intent.
Hi, I'm Yukun ∿ Yang
Seeking a PhD in Human–AI Interaction — focusing on bidirectional alignment.
I design human–AI interfaces that help people understand, steer, and co-adapt with advanced AI models. My work examines how human values shape AI behavior — and how AI behavior, in turn, reshapes human understanding.
About
I study how humans and AI systems co-adapt over time, and how interaction design can make this process transparent, value-sensitive, and aligned with real human intentions. My research focuses on enabling users to interpret AI reasoning, articulate their goals more effectively, and shape model behavior through rich, iterative interactions.
I am currently seeking a PhD opportunity where I can combine empirical studies, interface design, and computational analysis to advance bidirectional alignment — ensuring that AI systems not only perform tasks, but collaborate with diverse users in ways that respect their values and context.
Research Focus
Value-Sensitive Interaction Design
Building interfaces that surface user values and allow people to negotiate, steer, and correct AI decisions in context, ensuring that the system’s behavior aligns with what users care about.
Human-Centered AI Evaluation
Developing evaluation frameworks that move beyond task accuracy to capture how AI behavior aligns with human values, expectations, and goals.
Publications
CHI 2025
🏆 Best Paper Award
CHI 2026
IUI 2026
IUI 2026 Demo
Image Placeholder
Miscellaneous
Water polo
My experience in water polo shapes how I think about coordination, situational awareness, and adaptive teamwork — metaphors that often inspire my approach to human–AI collaboration. I also was part of team who won the 4th place in China national college water polo championship.
Video Games
I enjoyed playing games on computer since I was a child.
Places I've Visited
Kyoto, Japan
This is my first trip abroad without my family, which was both exciting and challenging.
South Bend, USA
My first trip to US, fortunate to get a ticket for a South Bend Baseball Game Day.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Fortunate to get a fully funded opportunity to visit Abu Dhabi, experiencing its rich culture and modern marvels.
Tokyo, Japan
Attended CHI 2025 at Yokohama, Japan. This photo was taken when I did a small sightseeing trip in Tokyo.
Chicago, USA
Second trip to the US, exploring the vibrant city of Chicago and its iconic Millennium Park.
Busan, South Korea
Attended UIST 2025 at Busan, enjoying its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture.
Kyoto, Japan
First time to take my family abroad, exploring the historic and cultural sites of Kyoto. Grandparents and Mom joined me on this memorable trip.