BTech, Indian Institute of Technology (Kanpur), PhD, University of Lancaster (UK), is an educator and a technology entrepreneur, who boldly navigates the dynamic realms of a wide range of computing technologies with persistent curiosity. His competitive spirit has secured numerous R&D state and federal grants from the United States. He is fuelled by an unwavering optimism and believes that we are on the cusp of extrordinary breakthroughs that will lead to a future of abundance for all.
My journey, which started at the Indian Institute of Technology (Kanpur, India) with a B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering in 1992, has been a blend of academia, industry, technology, and personal passions. After completing my Ph.D. in Computer Science at the University of Lancaster, UK, in 2000 and post-doctoral research in Haptics and 3D Sound at the University of Glasgow, Scotland, I ventured into the practical application of my research as a Senior Research Engineer at the Medstar Research Institute and the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington D.C.
Throughout my career, I have passionately worked and designed technologies for diverse user groups with varying cognitive profiles, including the visually impaired, autistic children, and teenagers with mental health issues. This has ingrained in me a profound interest in developing empowering systems through a cognitive science perspective, tailoring each solution to the unique needs of these varied groups.
Following my research phase, I embraced the role of an Associate Professor at Idaho State University, where I advanced educational technologies using virtual worlds and virtual reality. Though my academic achievements were fulfilling, I was drawn towards the industry, seeking to create practical, impactful products. This led to the establishment of DeepSemaphore LLC, where I focused on developing 3D virtual worlds as tools for learning and skill development. At DeepSemaphore LLC, I have developed virtual learning environment systems to evaluate advanced learning and virtual therapy for private institutions. This includes designing systems for university emergency preparedness training departments and private hospitals within the United States and beyond, underlining my commitment to enhancing educational and therapeutic practices through innovative technology.
My work in this field has been recognized with honors such as the SFC Paul Ray Smith medal of excellence and being a finalist for the Linden Prize in 2010. These accolades underscored the impact of my work in the community and the broader tech world.
Today, my focus has evolved to the Metaverse and the pivotal role Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play in it. This new frontier of digital experience offers a confluence of the physical and virtual worlds, where AI's capabilities can significantly enhance human interaction, creativity, and empathy. I am deeply invested in exploring and shaping how AI integrates into the Metaverse, enhancing its functionality and user experience. In line with these pursuits, my current goals include mentoring and assisting a new generation of startups and young, maverick researchers and engineers. I am dedicated to advancing the fields of AI and the Metaverse. I devote significant time to the open-source Metaverse community, striving to educate and guide others about potential research directions and opportunities. By sharing my knowledge and insights, I aim to inspire and empower the next wave of innovators in these transformative and dynamic fields.