Jon E Froehlich

Jon E. Froehlich is a professor in the Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering at the University of Washington, director of the Makeability Lab, and associate director of CREATE (Center for Research and Education on Accessible Technology and Experiences). His research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Human-Centered AI, accessibility, augmented reality (AR), urban informatics, and environmental sustainability. He is the co-founder of Project Sidewalk, which leverages both human and AI technologies to map and assess sidewalks globally. His work has garnered significant recognition, including multiple Best Paper Awards and Honorable Mentions at premier international conferences as well as the Sloan Fellow Award in 2016.

Jon has served as the General Chair of the 2022 ASSETS conference on accessible technology and as Chair of the University of Washington's interdisciplinary Master of Human-Computer Interaction + Design (MHCI+D) program from 2021 to 2024. His lab has published highly influential papers and developed pioneering projects that have had far-reaching impacts in both academia and industry.

• 2021–Present·Google Research·Visiting Researcher
  • Conducting research in the Society-Centered AI team, focusing on the intersection of societal issues and artificial intelligence.
• 2012–Present·University of Washington·Professor
  • Researching HCI, urban informatics, and accessibility. Founded and leads the Makeability Lab.
  • Serves as Associate Director of CREATE and Director of Tech Transfer and Outreach.
• 2012–2017·University of Maryland·Assistant Professor
  • Focused on augmented reality systems, physical computing, and STEM education.

• 2008·University of Washington·Ph.D.
  • Specialization: Human-Computer Interaction, focusing on user experience and interaction design.
• 2003·Cornell University·B.S.
  • Specialization: Computer Science.