Valerie Zhao

Valerie Zhao is a PhD student in Computer Science at the University of Chicago, conducting research under the supervision of Professor Blase Ur. Her research primarily focuses on human-computer interaction, particularly optimizing the programming experience for non-technical users in smart homes and social robotics. She has a strong interest in programming visualization and is committed to helping users intuitively understand the complexities of trigger-action programming differences. Additionally, she participates in numerous interdisciplinary data science projects aimed at advancing research in the domains of social robots and smart homes. Before joining the University of Chicago, Valerie graduated in 2018 from Wellesley College with an honors Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience and Computer Science.

• 2021 – Present·University of Chicago·PhD Student
  • Research areas include smart home programming, social robotics, and enhancing user experience in human-computer interaction.
  • Focused on visual analysis and improving user understanding of trigger-action programming.
• 2021·CDAC Data and Computing Summer Lab·Coordinator for Natural and Computational Systems Lab
  • Coordinated lab activities, supported student research projects, and promoted interdisciplinary collaboration.

• 2021 – Present·University of Chicago·PhD Student
  • Focused on Computer Science with an emphasis on human-computer interaction and data science.
• 2014 – 2018·Wellesley College·Bachelor’s Degree
  • Majored in Neuroscience and Computer Science, graduating with honors.