John E. Laird

Dr. John E. Laird conducts research on autonomous intelligent robots, focusing on the integration of robotic and cognitive architectures. As a retired John L. Tishman Emeritus Professor of Engineering at the University of Michigan, he has made significant contributions to the field of artificial intelligence, particularly in the areas of interactive task learning and the development of human-level artificial intelligent entities. His work explores the origins of subgoals and general problem-solving techniques, aiming to enhance the capabilities of AI systems. Dr. Laird holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer and Communications Sciences and a Ph.D. in Computer Science, which have provided a strong foundation for his extensive research endeavors. His interest in natural intelligence and weak methods has driven his pursuit of creating more sophisticated AI systems that can learn and adapt in dynamic environments. By integrating cognitive architectures with robotic systems, Dr. Laird aims to develop AI entities that can perform complex tasks autonomously. Throughout his career, Dr. Laird has been recognized for his contributions to the field of artificial intelligence. He is a fellow of several prestigious organizations, including the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI), the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), and the Cognitive Science Society. These honors reflect his influence and leadership in advancing AI research and technology. Dr. Laird's work continues to inspire new generations of researchers and engineers, as he remains actively involved in the academic community. His dedication to exploring the frontiers of AI and his commitment to integrating cognitive and robotic systems have left a lasting impact on the field, paving the way for future innovations in artificial intelligence.