Michael Walker

Michael Walker is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Michigan Technological University's College of Computing. His research focuses on Human-Robot Interaction (HRI), emphasizing the design of immersive virtual and mixed reality interfaces to enhance human-robot teaming in both indoor and outdoor environments. He explores applications in domains such as household robotics, manufacturing, disaster response, space exploration, and education.

His work emphasizes user-centered design principles, robotic teleoperation, and artificial intelligence integration. Key research themes include augmented reality (AR) coordination mechanisms, mixed reality supervision systems, and trust dynamics in autonomous guidance systems for planetary rovers. He is a contributor to NASA's Artemis Program, advancing telerobotic interfaces for lunar surface operations and the FARSIDE Low Frequency Radio Telescope project.

Dr. Walker's publications span advanced interface frameworks like VAM-HRI (Virtual/Augmented/Mixed Reality for HRI) and tools such as TOBY for academic survey analysis. His work bridges theoretical research with practical applications, addressing challenges in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial robotics environments.

No scientific awards are listed in the provided materials. His advising and grant activities are not detailed here, though his research aligns with federal and institutional funding priorities in robotics and extended reality. His lab's collaborations focus on advancing surface telerobotics and cross-domain HRI solutions.