Paul R. Schrater

Paul R. Schrater is an Associate Professor with a joint faculty appointment in the Departments of Psychology and Computer Science at the University of Minnesota. His research bridges computational approaches with cognitive and neural sciences, focusing on understanding human perception, decision-making, and motor control through probabilistic and machine learning frameworks.

Dr. Schrater's research interests span across several interconnected domains in cognitive science and artificial intelligence. His work primarily investigates how humans use probabilistic methods to navigate perception and motor control challenges. He approaches these questions through a structured interdisciplinary lens, placing computational theory at the forefront to drive empirical work. His research aims to develop precise, testable theories of brain computations that can be validated through behavioral measures and brain imaging techniques.

His publication record reveals consistent work in human perception, decision theory, and motor control, with a strong emphasis on Bayesian modeling approaches. Over the past decade, his research has evolved to incorporate increasingly sophisticated probabilistic models to explain phenomena ranging from perceptual bistability to optimal grasping strategies under uncertainty. His work demonstrates a clear trajectory toward integrating multiple sensory modalities and cognitive processes within unified computational frameworks.

Dr. Schrater directs the Computational Perception and Action Laboratory, located in Elliott Hall at the University of Minnesota. The lab is equipped with a Visuo-Haptic workbench for testing visuo-motor behavior with virtual objects, and an adjustable reach laboratory for studying reaching behavior with actual objects. His teaching includes graduate courses such as "Mathematical Models of Human Behavior" (PSY 5018H) and "Artificial Intelligence II" (CSCI 5512), reflecting his interdisciplinary approach that bridges psychology and computer science.