Robert Atkinson

Dr. Robert Atkinson brings over 25 years of experience in teaching data science across disciplines such as Computer Science, Informatics, Industrial Engineering, Educational Technology, and Educational Psychology. His extensive teaching background and successful mentorship of 25 PhD graduates across five programs highlight the versatile and critical role of data science in addressing a wide range of research and practical challenges. Dr. Atkinson has taught nearly 10,000 students throughout his career, currently serving as an associate professor of computer science at Arizona State University's (ASU) School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence.

Dr. Atkinson has been instrumental in advancing user experience research through the creation of several world-class user experience labs. He co-founded and served as Chief Research Officer of Sensory Track, a business where he pioneered the use of biometric sensors to capture and analyze users' sensorimotor, cognitive, and affective responses. This innovative approach provided real-time data on user interactions, informing the design and optimization of user interfaces for major brands like Crayola and M&M Mars. Additionally, Dr. Atkinson founded and directed the Innovative Learner and User Experience (iLUX) Lab at ASU, an academic research lab that leveraged physiological sensors such as eye-tracking, EEG, and galvanic skin response sensors. This research provided deep insights into users' cognitive load, emotional states, and engagement. The impactful work of iLUX Lab helped establish a formal research relationship between Adidas and ASU, showcasing the lab's capability to bridge academic research and industry needs.

Dr. Atkinson has also consulted with prominent brands, significantly enhancing their user experience and interface designs. At Adidas, he directed several UX/UI projects focused on in-store branding and digital retail experiences, designing usability studies, and providing data-driven recommendations to improve user journeys. At American Airlines, he played a key role in the redesign of their website and self-service kiosks, enhancing customer satisfaction and streamlining the travel process through improved user interface design. His work with M&M Mars and Crayola involved leading in-store branding projects, optimizing product placement, and enhancing customer engagement based on user research. Additionally, at Pearson and Macmillan Publishing, he conducted biometric UX research to measure user engagement and cognitive load using advanced physiological sensors, providing invaluable insights into how users interact with educational content and informing the design of more effective learning materials.