Akram Taghavi-Burris

Akram Taghavi-Burris serves as Instructional Assistant Professor of Computer Science and Program Coordinator for Computer Simulation & Gaming at The University of Tulsa's College of Engineering & Natural Sciences. With nearly two decades of experience, they develop and teach comprehensive curricula spanning game development, virtual reality, mobile applications, 3D modeling, and digital media production.

Educational background includes an M.Ed. with Certificate of Mastery in Computer Science (2010) and B.S. in Training and Development (2005), both from the University of Central Oklahoma.

Research centers on Extended Reality (XR) ecosystems including Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Serious Games, Digital Twins, and Spatial Computing. Their work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications in virtual production, immersive simulations, and interactive media design.

Recent publications demonstrate a trajectory toward real-world robotics integration and high-fidelity digital twin development, particularly in controlling physical robots through VR interfaces and enhancing 3D entity accuracy for simulation environments.

Major recognitions include:

• Unity Education Ambassador (2023)
• Day of Innovation Grant and Chevron CCUS Grant (2022)
• Chapman Professorship (2020)
• Oklahoma Center for Humanities Fellowship (2019-2020)
• Multiple American Advertising Federation Awards for 2D Animation (2013-2014)
• DaVinci Institute Fellowship for Teaching Innovation (2011)

As program coordinator, Taghavi-Burris leads curriculum development and likely mentors students in game design projects, supported by competitive grants including the Day of Innovation and Chevron CCUS awards. Previous roles include Assistant Professor at Pittsburg State University and Program Director at Oklahoma City Community College.

Research activities suggest active involvement in virtual reality laboratories focused on robotics integration and digital twin modeling, though specific lab affiliations are not explicitly detailed in the source material.