Brent Hecht

Dr. Brent Hecht is a Partner Director of Applied Science at Microsoft, where he leads research teams exploring high-value applications of AI in productivity scenarios. He is also an Adjunct Associate Professor at Northwestern University, specializing in human-computer interaction and responsible AI research. His work, particularly in the fields of language modeling and algorithmic bias, has had significant impact. Dr. Hecht is dedicated to creating sustainable AI content ecosystems, fostering collaboration among AI users, companies, and content creators. He is a recipient of the National Science Foundation CAREER Award, and his research has been featured in media outlets like The New York Times and The Washington Post. Additionally, he co-founded ACM FAccT, creating a critical platform for responsible AI research.

• 2020–Present·Microsoft·Partner Director of Applied Science
  • Leads an AI research team focusing on high-value applications in productivity scenarios, including team collaboration AI systems and privacy-aware AI analytics.
  • Co-leads cross-company research initiatives studying the impact of AI on the future of work and its business value.
• 2015–2020·Northwestern University·Associate Professor
  • Conducted research on sustainable AI content ecosystems, with a focus on responsible AI and language modeling.

• 2006–2011·University of Minnesota·Ph.D.
  • Field of Study: Geographic Information Science and Technology
• 2003–2006·Macalester College·B.A.
  • Field of Study: Computer Science