Michael Ian Shamos

Michael Ian Shamos is a Distinguished Career Professor at Carnegie Mellon University's School of Computer Science, with appointments in the Language Technologies Institute and Software and Societal Systems Department. His career spans academia, law, and technology entrepreneurship, with expertise in experimental mathematics, artificial intelligence, and legal aspects of technology.

Dr. Shamos earned his educational credentials through an impressive multidisciplinary path:

• A.B. in Physics from Princeton University (1968) under John Wheeler
• M.A. in Physics from Vassar College (1970)
• M.S. in Technology of Management from American University (1972)
• M.S. and M.Phil. in Computer Science from Yale University (1973-1974)
• Ph.D. in Computer Science from Yale University (1978)
• J.D. from Duquesne University (1981)

His research interests bridge multiple domains with exceptional depth. In experimental mathematics, he develops computational systems that automatically generate and prove novel mathematical theorems, particularly in number theory, having contributed hundreds of new results to the field. As a leading expert in electronic voting security, he has examined over 120 voting systems for seven states and testified before Congress multiple times. His work uniquely integrates legal expertise with technical knowledge, especially regarding intellectual property in the digital age. He directs the M.S. in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation program at CMU, advising 74 students in this cutting-edge field.

His publication trajectory reveals an evolution from foundational computational geometry (co-authoring the seminal "Computational Geometry: An Introduction") to contemporary issues in voting security and experimental mathematics. The consistent thread is applying computational methods to solve real-world problems with careful attention to legal and societal implications.

His notable recognitions include:

• Industry Service Award of the Billiard and Bowling Institute of America (1996)
• Black and White Scotch Achiever's Award for contributions to bagpipe musicography (1991)

As an educator and mentor, Dr. Shamos directs the M.S. in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation program and teaches courses including "AI & Future Markets" and "The Law of Computer Technology." He has served as an expert witness in over 360 legal cases involving computer technology and has been a statutory examiner of computerized voting systems for Pennsylvania since 1980. His extensive industry experience includes founding technology companies and serving as General Counsel for an AI company.

Dr. Shamos is actively involved with the Universal Library project, which has scanned over 1.5 million books. He also serves as faculty advisor to the Carnegie Mellon Pool Team and is Curator of The Billiard Archive, reflecting his deep commitment to preserving billiards history alongside his academic pursuits.