Abstract
This paper introduces MuSE (Multispecies Sensory Engagement), an interactive silicone bioreactor designed to create emotional bonds between humans and kombucha SCOBY microorganisms. Guided by a More-than-Human-Centered-Design (MtHCD) and Research through Design (RtD) framework, this project applies the concepts of exposure therapy and embodied cognition to biology-based HCI, using an auto-ethnographic approach to explore how sensory interactions can shift human perceptions of less relatable life forms. MuSE translates the microorganisms health into sensory cues, creating opportunities for users to engage in caretaking and build empathy through light, movement and touch. Our RtD process results in two contributions: a design exemplar that centers microorganisms as central users, and a set of MtHCD reflections to guide future biodesign ers in creating agency for nonhumans.
Keywords
Biodesign; Kombucha SCOBY; Soft Robotics; Sensory Engagement
DOI
https://doi.org/10.21606/iasdr.2025.812
Citation
Shockey, L.,and Sabinson, E.(2025) MuSE (Multispecies Sensory Engagement): Enhancing Emotional Bonds with Microorganisms, in Chang, C.-Y., and Hsu, Y. (eds.), IASDR 2025: Design Next, 02-05 December, Taiwan. https://doi.org/10.21606/iasdr.2025.812
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Conference Track
Track 1 - More Than Human-centered Design
MuSE (Multispecies Sensory Engagement): Enhancing Emotional Bonds with Microorganisms
This paper introduces MuSE (Multispecies Sensory Engagement), an interactive silicone bioreactor designed to create emotional bonds between humans and kombucha SCOBY microorganisms. Guided by a More-than-Human-Centered-Design (MtHCD) and Research through Design (RtD) framework, this project applies the concepts of exposure therapy and embodied cognition to biology-based HCI, using an auto-ethnographic approach to explore how sensory interactions can shift human perceptions of less relatable life forms. MuSE translates the microorganisms health into sensory cues, creating opportunities for users to engage in caretaking and build empathy through light, movement and touch. Our RtD process results in two contributions: a design exemplar that centers microorganisms as central users, and a set of MtHCD reflections to guide future biodesign ers in creating agency for nonhumans.