Eric Chown

Eric Chown is the Sarah and James Bowdoin Professor of Digital and Computational Studies at Bowdoin College, where he has been a faculty member since 1998. He previously served as Chair of the Computer Science Department and is currently active in teaching, research, and program leadership. His work bridges artificial intelligence, cognitive science, and robotics, with a growing interest in the societal and philosophical implications of digital technology.

• Bachelor of Arts, Northwestern University (1985)
• Master of Science, Northwestern University (1987)
• PhD, University of Michigan (1994)

Chown’s research focuses on artificial intelligence, cognitive modeling, robotics, and digital metaphors. He has made significant contributions to spatial reasoning, emotional modeling in agents, and humanoid robot control. His 2023 book, Meaningful Technology, co-authored with Fernando Nascimento, explores how digital metaphors shape human cognition and behavior. He is also known for leading the Northern Bites RoboCup team to a world championship in 2007.

His recent publications reflect a strong trajectory in AI and robotics, particularly in team coordination, locomotion control, and hybrid cognitive architectures. The articles span from foundational work in connectionist models of memory and perception to applied robotics in competitive environments. Keywords across his work include machine learning, spatial reasoning, emotion modeling, and human-robot interaction.

Scientific awards and honors include:

• NSF CAREER Award (2001–2006)
• NSF RUI Grant (2010–2013)
• RoboCup Federation Research Grant (2014)
• NCH and Google Responsible AI Curriculum Grant (2022)
• Walter P. Murphy Fellowship
• Nissan Cognitive Science Fellowship

Chown has advised numerous undergraduate researchers, many of whom appear as co-authors on his papers. He has led major research initiatives, including the development of the AiboConnect programming environment for educational robotics and the design of locomotion algorithms for humanoid robots. He is also involved in curriculum innovation, particularly in ethics in AI. He leads the Northern Bites robotics team and has been instrumental in organizing and publishing team reports for RoboCup competitions.

He is affiliated with the Digital and Computational Studies program at Bowdoin College and has previously contributed to the Computer Science Department. His research lab, embedded within the Northern Bites team, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration between computer science, cognitive science, and engineering students.