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About

Teresa Marrin Nakra is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of computer science, engineering, and the arts, best known for her innovative work in human-robot interaction and creativity enhancement. Her primary research areas include multidisciplinary education, robotic conducting systems, and fostering creativity in STEM fields. Nakra’s major contribution is the development of a groundbreaking undergraduate course where student teams build robotic systems that conduct a live orchestra, bridging the gap between technology and the arts. This work has been cited over 38 times, with her most influential paper, “Teaching creativity in computer science” (2013, 19 citations), demonstrating how such courses enhance creative thinking through measurable outcomes. Her notable achievements include creating a sustained interdisciplinary curriculum offered every semester since 2009, involving students from computer science, interactive multimedia, music, and engineering. Nakra’s research has been recognized for its unique approach to integrating fundamentally different disciplines, inspiring a new generation of engineers and artists to collaborate. Her work continues to shape how educators think about creativity in technical fields, making her a leading voice in STEAM education.