Chris Thomas Conly

Dr. Chris Thomas Conly is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). He holds a PhD in Computer Engineering and a BS in Computer Science, both from UTA. His roles include serving as Director of Undergraduate Computer Engineering (2025–Present) and Co-Director (2023–2024). He previously held positions such as Senior Lecturer (2016–2020) and GTA/GRA (2012–2016).

• Education: PhD Computer Engineering (2016), BS Computer Science (2006), both from UTA.
• Affiliations: Member of Tau Beta Pi, Upsilon Pi Epsilon, ACM, and IEEE.

Research interests focus on Computer Vision, AI/Machine Learning, and Gesture Recognition. His work includes developing deep learning methods for HEVC video processing, assistive technologies for sign language interpretation, and gesture recognition systems. Teaching interests include programming, senior design projects, and deep learning.

Publications span topics like HEVC optimization, CNN-based classification, and assistive technologies, reflecting contributions to computer vision and signal processing. His 15 most recent articles highlight advancements in video compression, neural networks, and gesture analysis.

He has received awards such as the Shining Star Teaching Award (2024) and NSF PETRA Doctoral Consortium Awards (2014–2015). He advises numerous students in doctoral and master’s theses, including Isaac Valdez, Evan Cornish, and Minh Tram.

Service roles include leading ABET accreditation efforts, curriculum committees, and student organization advising. He mentors in REU programs and contributes to outreach initiatives, emphasizing broadening participation in computing.

Labs/Teams: Involved in CSE capstone design projects, robotics competitions (IEEE Region 5), and assistive technology research through collaborations like PETRA conferences.