Rigoberto Chinchilla

Rigoberto Chinchilla serves as Associate Professor of Applied Engineering and Technology in Eastern Illinois University's School of Technology, where he has held faculty positions since 2004. He concurrently acts as Coordinator for the MS in Cybersecurity program and Treasurer of EIU-UPI, with his office located in Klehm Hall room 4010.

His academic credentials include:

• PhD in Industrial Engineering and Electrical Engineering from Ohio University (2003)
• MSc in Electrical Engineering from Ohio University (1993)
• BSc in Electrical Engineering from Universidad Autónoma de Centro América (1986)

Dr. Chinchilla's research centers on Biometric and Computer Security, with significant focus on complexion bias in facial recognition systems and ethical implications of surveillance technologies. His work bridges Quality design principles with Automation and Clean Technologies, particularly examining how engineering education interfaces with private-sector partnerships. Recent investigations address statistical equivalence in biometric systems across diverse populations and migration of engineering labs to distance learning environments.

Analysis of his 13 publications reveals consistent emphasis on ethical technology deployment since 2011, with increasing attention to bias mitigation in biometric systems after 2012. His scholarship uniquely connects engineering pedagogy with social consequences, notably through curriculum integration of ethical frameworks for emerging technologies.

Professional recognition includes:

• Fulbright Scholar designation
• United Nations Scholar appointment

Dr. Chinchilla has secured multiple research grants supporting his biometric security and clean technology initiatives while supervising 7 graduate students. He actively participates in university governance through numerous departmental and institutional committees. As MS in Cybersecurity Coordinator, he leads program development addressing contemporary threats like insider cyber-attacks—a domain where his 2024 media commentary noted 80% of breaches originate internally.