Daniel BarowyView profile
Associate Professor
Daniel Barowy is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Williams College. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (2017), an M.S. in Computer Science from UMass Amherst (2013), a B.S. in Computer Science from Boston University (2010), and a B.A. in Legal Studies and Philosophy from UMass Amherst (2002). Education: Ph.D. Computer Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 2017 M.S. Computer Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 2013 B.S. Computer Science, Boston University, 2010 B.A. Legal Studies and Philosophy, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 2002 Daniel Barowy's research focuses on programming languages, particularly in the domain of end-user programming and human-computer interaction. His work centers on improving spreadsheet programs' reliability and enhancing human-in-the-loop algorithms. He explores how programming language technology can be applied to emerging domains such as crowdsourcing and data analysis. His research often blends traditional programming language techniques like program analysis with statistical methods to create tools that make programming more accessible and robust for non-experts. His publication record shows a consistent focus on improving spreadsheet reliability (ExceLint, CheckCell, FlashRelate) and integrating human computation with programming languages (AutoMan, VoxPL). His work spans multiple prestigious venues including PLDI, OOPSLA, CHI, and USENIX ATC, demonstrating both theoretical rigor and practical impact. The most recent work (Riker) focuses on build systems, showing an expansion of his research interests while maintaining the core theme of improving software reliability. Scientific Awards: Best Paper Award at USENIX ATC 2022 for "Riker: Always-Correct and Fast Incremental Builds from Simple Specifications" PLDI 2015 Distinguished Artifact Award for "FlashRelate: Extracting Relational Data from Semi-Structured Spreadsheets Using Examples" Research Highlight in Communications of the ACM for AutoMan Verified artifact badges for CheckCell, ExceLint, and FlashRelate Barowy actively mentors students, as evidenced by his detailed process for providing letters of recommendation. His teaching portfolio includes core computer science courses like Principles of Programming Languages (CSCI 334) and Introduction to Computer Security (CSCI 331). He has developed educational tools like SWELL for introductory programming education. His research is supported by grants from the National Science Foundation (CCF-1144520, CCF-0953754) and DARPA (N10AP2026), with additional support from Microsoft Research. Barowy leads research projects that often result in open-source software tools including ExceLint (an Excel plugin for finding formula errors), AutoMan/VoxPL (a DSL for crowdsourcing), and several related tools for spreadsheet analysis and crowdsourcing integration. His work bridges theoretical programming language concepts with practical applications that directly benefit end-users.







