Robert J.K. Jacob is a Professor of Computer Science at Tufts University, affiliated with the School of Engineering's Department of Computer Science. His research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), particularly implicit brain-computer interfaces (BCI) using fNIRS and EEG technologies. He has held visiting positions at University College London, Université Paris-Sud, and MIT Media Lab. Education: Ph.D. in Computer Science from Johns Hopkins University. Research Interests : Jacob's work explores novel interaction techniques, adaptive interfaces, and BCI applications. Current projects emphasize real-time fNIRS-based systems for effortless user input, cognitive workload assessment, and neuroadaptive technologies. His lab investigates how brain signals can enhance user interfaces in domains like music learning, gaming, and urban design. Recent Trends in Articles : Recent publications highlight advancements in BCI design, neuroadaptive systems, and interdisciplinary applications of fNIRS. Work spans theoretical frameworks (e.g., NeuroCHI ethics) to practical tools like the Tufts fNIRS dataset. Key themes include improving BCI calibration, exploring AI's role in urban environments, and integrating affective computing into artistic interfaces. Awards : ACM Fellow (2016) ACM CHI Academy Membership (2007) Best Paper Award at CHI 2016 Advising & Grants : Supervised 15+ Ph.D. alumni in HCI and BCI. Served as Vice-President of ACM SIGCHI and co-chair of UIST/CHI conferences. Active in editorial roles for Human-Computer Interaction and ACM Transactions on Computer-Human Interaction . Labs & Teams : Directs the Tufts HCI Lab in the Joyce Cummings Center. Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams on projects like the Marble Track Audio Manipulator and Reality-Based Interaction Framework.








