Phillip Conrad

Phillip Conrad is a Senior Lecturer with Security of Employment (SLSOE) at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), holding a joint appointment in the Department of Computer Science (College of Engineering) and the College of Creative Studies (CCS). He specializes in computer science education and curriculum development, with a focus on teaching methodologies and bridging academic-industry gaps. His roles include teaching undergraduate courses in computer science, mentoring students, and facilitating collaboration between CCS and CoE programs.

• Education:
  • PhD in Computer Science, University of Delaware (2001)
  • MS in Computer Science, West Virginia University (1998)
  • BS in Computer Science, West Virginia Wesleyan College (1985)

His research interests include effective teaching practices, undergraduate TA programs, and improving software engineering education through practical assessments. He has conducted industry sabbaticals, such as at AppFolio, to enhance curriculum relevance. Notable awards include the UCSB College of Engineering Outstanding Faculty Award (multiple years) and the UCSB Faculty Senate Distinguished Teaching Award.

Recent work focuses on evaluating team software development, individual contributions in projects, and addressing challenges faced by early-career software developers. He actively contributes to conferences like SIGCSE and publishes on pedagogical innovations and educational technology.

• Awards:
  • UCSB College of Engineering Outstanding Faculty Award (2012–2015)
  • UCSB Faculty Senate Distinguished Teaching Award (2011)

Advising and grants include leading initiatives like the Undergraduate TA/Mentor program at UCSB and collaborating on projects such as eVoices and Animal Tlatoque to attract diverse students to computing.