معرفی
Robert C. Maher is a Professor in the Electrical & Computer Engineering Department at Montana State University and an Affiliate Professor of Music Technology in the School of Music. He serves as Chair of the MSU Faculty Senate for the 2025-2026 term. Dr. Maher joined the Montana State ECE faculty in August 2002 and previously served as ECE Department Head from 2007-2017. His expertise spans audio forensic analysis, audio engineering, musical acoustics, and digital signal processing.
Dr. Maher earned his BS from Washington University in St. Louis, MS from University of Wisconsin-Madison, and PhD from University of Illinois-Urbana, all in Electrical Engineering. His academic journey includes faculty positions at University of Nebraska-Lincoln (1989-1996), industry roles at EuPhonics and 3Com, and an adjunct position at University of Colorado-Boulder.
Dr. Maher's research focuses on audio forensic analysis, with particular emphasis on gunshot acoustics, digital audio processing, and audio authenticity verification. His work bridges engineering and practical forensic applications, examining how audio recordings can be analyzed for legal contexts. Recent research has explored machine learning approaches to gunshot recognition, analysis of user-generated recordings in criminal investigations, and the interpretation of audio evidence from high-profile incidents. His interdisciplinary approach combines signal processing expertise with real-world forensic challenges.
Dr. Maher's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on forensic audio analysis, particularly gunshot acoustics and the interpretation of user-generated recordings in criminal investigations. His research has evolved to incorporate machine learning techniques while maintaining rigorous scientific approaches to audio evidence. The publications reveal consistent contributions to forensic audio standards and methodologies, with applications ranging from criminal investigations to historical event analysis.
Dr. Maher has received significant recognition in his field:
- Fellow of the Audio Engineering Society
- Senior Member of IEEE
- Associate Member of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences
As an educator, Dr. Maher has advised numerous students in electrical engineering and music technology. His teaching includes courses on digital signal processing and the science of sound. He has secured research funding for projects related to audio forensics and acoustics. Dr. Maher also serves as audio forensic expert for the History Channel show "The Proof is Out There" (2023-2025 seasons), applying his expertise to real-world investigative contexts.
Dr. Maher maintains an active research laboratory in Cobleigh Hall 410 at Montana State University, where he conducts experiments in audio forensics and acoustics. His work often involves interdisciplinary collaboration between engineering and music departments, reflecting his dual appointment. The lab focuses on gunshot acoustics research, audio signal processing, and the development of forensic audio analysis techniques.
