Shawna Thomas

Shawna Thomas is an Instructional Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science & Engineering at Texas A&M University. She holds dual roles as an undergraduate advisor and faculty member, fostering student academic success and curriculum development. With a Ph.D. and B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering from Texas A&M, her research focuses on robotics motion planning, computational biology, and computer science education. Thomas has received prestigious awards, including the Provost Academic Professional Track Faculty Teaching Excellence Award (2023–2024) and IBM Ph.D. Fellowships.

Her educational background includes a doctorate in Computer Science (2010) and a Bachelor's in Computer Engineering (2001), both from Texas A&M. Her research bridges robotics and biology, applying motion planning to protein folding and ligand binding. Teaching innovations include active learning, design thinking, and inclusive pedagogy in courses like CSCE 120 and CSCE 482.

Thomas has mentored numerous students across doctoral, master’s, and undergraduate levels, contributing to over 50 peer-reviewed publications. Her service roles include leadership in academic advising, curriculum committees, and professional organizations like IEEE and ASEE. She actively promotes engineering education research and faculty development through initiatives like the Faculty of Engineering Education and IDEATE Fellowships.