Kim Binsted

Kim Binsted is a Professor in the Information and Computer Sciences Department at the University of Hawaii. She holds a BSc in Physics from McGill University (1991) and a PhD in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Edinburgh (1996), followed by a Master’s in Planetary Geology from the University of Hawaii (2015). Her research spans artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, long-duration space exploration, and planetary geology.

Her work focuses on Mars analog missions at HI-SEAS (Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation), examining team dynamics, stress management, and resource optimization. She also explores robotic companions, sub-vocal speech recognition, and lava tube geology. Her recent publications analyze negotiation training in isolated environments, atmospheric sensing, and HI-SEAS habitat energy systems.

Scientific awards include the

• NASA Summer Faculty Fellow (2003-2004)
• Fulbright Award (2016-2017)
• AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellow (2018-2019)
• Grand Prize Award for HyperMask (NICOGRAPH 2000)

Dr. Binsted leads NASA-funded HI-SEAS simulations and contributes to planetary analog geology, crew health, and AI-driven mission support. She also investigates humor generation through systems like JAPE (Joke Analysis and Production Engine) and interactive drama frameworks like Marlinspike.