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Revolutionizing problem-solving with XR: vision for the future
When you think of data scientists or computer experts, you might picture them tucked away behind screens, disconnected from the real world. But what if technology could actually help solve some of society’s biggest challenges? Shares Will Hurst, an Associate Professor in Data Science and Extended Realities at Wageningen University & Research (WUR). With a passion for innovation, Hurst is using cutting-edge extended reality (XR) to drive solutions that make a real-world impact.
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XR: more than just entertainment
Extended reality (XR) is a broad term encompassing immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). These technologies aren’t just about gaming—they offer powerful applications in education, training, agriculture, and more.
One of Hurst’s first projects at WUR involved developing a virtual reality-based digital twin of a greenhouse. “I know how WUR’s ‘Impact’ greenhouse looks and have walked through it and know where everything is, but I’ve never been there physically!” he says. This kind of technology enables researchers and practitioners to explore environments remotely and optimize real-world processes.
A passion for making a difference
Hurst’s drive comes from a deep desire to create technology that has a meaningful impact. Early in his career, he helped develop a virtual reality model of a cancer treatment unit to support child cancer patients—an experience that cemented his belief in XR’s potential to address real-world problems.
One pressing global challenge is sustainable food production. As the world’s population grows, the need for food solutions with minimal environmental impact becomes more urgent. Hurst and his team have turned to an unexpected hero: mushrooms.
Gamifying food sustainability
To help address the challenge of sustainable food production, Hurst and his team developed DigiFungi, a software tool designed to train button mushroom growers. “We started by thoroughly investigating the steps of growing button mushrooms,” he explains. “Then, we gamified the process—creating a computer game that teaches players how to grow mushrooms effectively.”
By blending education with interactive technology, DigiFungi makes complex knowledge accessible and engaging. This approach doesn’t just help individual growers—it contributes to broader sustainability goals by improving food production efficiency.
The future: expanding XR’s reach
Looking ahead, Hurst and his team are developing DigiAlgae, a new project focused on alternative food production. By bridging the gap between data and action, they aim to drive innovation in sustainable food systems and beyond.
“We like to think we serve as bridge builders,” says Hurst. “We take complex knowledge and present it in a way that’s simple, fun, and educational. XR and serious games capture people’s attention and bring something new and innovative to the table.”
With projects like DigiFungi and DigiAlgae, Hurst and his team are proving that technology isn’t just about screens and code—it’s about shaping a better future for us all.