Soma Datta

Dr. Soma Datta serves as Associate Professor and Program Chair in the Software Engineering department at University of Houston-Clear Lake's College of Science and Engineering. Her academic leadership spans curriculum development, graduate supervision, and innovative teaching methodologies.

Dr. Datta's research focuses on three interconnected domains:

• Agile software development frameworks and hybrid methodologies
• Applied machine learning for predictive modeling in education and IoT systems
• Gamification techniques for enhancing software engineering education

Her work bridges theoretical research with practical applications through projects like virtual laboratory development for disaster-resilient education and ADHD learning tools.

Her publication record from 2017-2020 shows consistent output in agile methodologies (40%), machine learning applications (30%), and educational innovation (30%), with notable contributions to hybrid agile processes and gamified learning environments.

Professional recognition includes:

• Instructional Innovation Award Honorable Mention (2020)
• IEEE conference best presentation awards (2017, 2019)
• Featured as 'Professor to Know' in online software engineering education
• New Faculty Teaching Award (2018)

Dr. Datta actively mentors graduate students in agile frameworks and software implementation, emphasizing conference presentation opportunities. She founded UHCL's Code for Girls Camp for middle-schoolers and has taught data science internationally to sixth-graders, demonstrating commitment to STEM pipeline development. Current research includes virtual labs for the MicroCURE network and machine learning applications for student recruitment.