Rick Thomas

Dr. Rick Thomas is an esteemed Associate Professor of Psychology at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he has been contributing to the academic community with his extensive research and teaching expertise. He earned his Ph.D. in Psychology from Kansas State University in 2004, marking the beginning of a distinguished career in the field of cognitive psychology. Dr. Thomas's research interests lie at the intersection of cognitive psychology and artificial intelligence, with a particular focus on decision-making processes. His work is dedicated to developing computational cognitive models that enhance our understanding of how decisions are made and how these processes can be supported and optimized through innovative decision support tools. By leveraging these models, he aims to improve the decision-making capabilities of professionals across various domains. At the helm of the Decision Processes Laboratory (DPL) at Georgia Tech, Dr. Thomas leads a team of researchers in exploring the intricacies of decision-making. The laboratory employs a diverse array of methodologies, including behavioral studies, eye-tracking, and EEG, to gain insights into the cognitive processes underlying decision-making. These methodologies are complemented by advanced computational techniques, allowing for the development of robust models that can be applied in real-world scenarios. One of Dr. Thomas's key areas of specialization is in the realm of hypothesis generation for problem-solving and decision-making. His research seeks to refine computational models that describe how humans generate hypotheses, with the ultimate goal of optimizing these models as decision support tools. This work not only enhances the decision-making capabilities of professionals but also contributes to the advancement of artificial intelligence systems by improving their classification robustness. Throughout his career, Dr. Thomas has been committed to bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical applications. His contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous publications and presentations at national and international conferences. As a dedicated educator, he also mentors students and young researchers, fostering the next generation of scholars in cognitive psychology and decision sciences. Dr. Thomas continues to push the boundaries of knowledge in his field, driven by a passion for understanding the complexities of human cognition and decision-making. His work not only advances academic discourse but also holds significant implications for the development of more effective decision support systems and artificial intelligence technologies.