Daniel Szafir

Daniel Szafir is a computer science scholar specializing in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Human-Robot Interaction (HRI). He is currently an Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His research focuses on emerging technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and small aerial robots, aiming to enhance the usability and applicability of these technologies through innovative designs. Previously, he served as an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he founded the Interactive Robotics and Novel Technologies Laboratory (IRON Lab). Szafir’s research seeks to develop human-centered robotics by improving robotic behavior algorithms, designing more intuitive human-machine interfaces, and exploring novel sensor technologies. These advancements are applied in areas like collaborative work, education, and space exploration. His work has received funding from organizations such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), NASA, and Google, and has been featured in prominent media outlets like New Scientist and Discovery News.

• 2021–Present·University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science
  • Research focuses on applications of AR, VR, and aerial robotics in education, collaboration, and space exploration.
• 2015–2021·University of Colorado Boulder·Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science
  • Founded and led the Interactive Robotics and Novel Technologies Laboratory (IRON Lab), researching human-computer interaction and emerging robotics technologies.

• 2010–2015·University of Wisconsin–Madison·Ph.D.
  • Specialized in Human-Computer Interaction, with research in user interface design and robotic behavior modeling.
• 2005–2009·Boston College·Bachelor's Degree
  • Majored in Computer Science and History.