Maneesh Agrawala

Maneesh Agrawala is the Forest Baskett Professor of Computer Science and Director of the Brown Institute for Media Innovation at Stanford University. He is also a consulting AI Scientist at Roblox. His research lies at the intersection of computer graphics, human-computer interaction (HCI), and visualization, with a focus on cognitive design principles for improving audio/visual media. He leads a vibrant research group and has advised numerous PhD students and postdocs.

His research interests include:

• Computer Graphics
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Visualization and Visual Communication
• Cognitive Design Principles
• Generative AI and Diffusion Models
• Interactive Video and Sketch-based Interfaces
• Data and Information Visualization

His recent publications (2023–2025) reflect a strong trend toward leveraging generative models—particularly diffusion models—for video and image synthesis, editing, and personalization. Key themes include controllable generation (e.g., SparseCtrl, ControlNet), sketch-to-image translation, relightable texturing, and tools that enhance visual storytelling and data communication. His work integrates cognitive science with computational tools to build systems that support human creativity and understanding.

His scientific honors include:

• MacArthur Foundation Fellowship (2009)
• Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Fellowship (2007)
• NSF CAREER Award (2007)
• SIGGRAPH Significant New Researcher Award (2008)
• Allen Distinguished Investigator Award (2014)
• Induction into the SIGCHI Academy (2021)
• ACM Fellow (2022)
• Okawa Foundation Research Grant (2006)

A dedicated mentor, Agrawala has advised a large cohort of students and postdocs, many of whom have gone on to influential positions in academia and industry. His lab develops tools for video editing (e.g., AnimateDiff, ControlNet), sketch-based design, and visualization (e.g., EmphasisChecker), often bridging theory with practical applications in media and education. He continues to be a leading figure in visual computing and interactive systems.