Barb Cutler

Barb Cutler is an Associate Professor in the Computer Science Department at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and an affiliated faculty member at EMPAC (Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center). She specializes in computer graphics, interactive visualization, computational geometry, and open-source educational software. Previously, she was a student and Post-Doctoral Lecturer at MIT's Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

Education:

• PhD in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT, August 2003
• MEng in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT, June 1999

Research Interests:

Her research spans computer graphics, interactive visualization, computational geometry, and the development of open-source educational tools. She has made significant contributions to architectural daylighting design, spatially augmented reality, and procedural modeling. Her work often integrates advanced visualization techniques with practical applications in education and architecture.

Scientific Awards:

• NSF Early CAREER Award (2009)
• Rensselaer School of Science Outstanding Teaching Award (2017)
• Rensselaer Trustees' Outstanding Teacher Award (2019)

Teaching & Advising:

Barb Cutler has taught a wide range of courses including Data Structures, Advanced Computer Graphics, Interactive Visualization, and Computational Geometry. She has advised numerous PhD and MS students, many of whom have gone on to positions at leading companies and institutions. She is currently advising Evan Maicus, a PhD student in Computer Science.

Lab & Projects:

She leads the development of Submitty, an open-source homework submission, autograding, and TA grading system used widely in computer science education. Her lab focuses on innovative educational technologies and advanced visualization systems.