Dr. Jonathan Schaeffer

Biography

Jonathan Schaeffer is a professor in the Faculty of Science at the University of Alberta, specializing in Computing Science. He obtained his B.Sc. in Computer Science from the University of Toronto in 1979 and went on to earn both an M.Math and Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Waterloo in 1980 and 1986, respectively. Schaeffer has held several prominent positions including Dean of Science from 2012 to 2018, Vice Provost, and Associate Vice President for Information Technology from 2008 to 2012. In addition, he served as Chair of Computing Science from 2005 to 2008. His research areas include Artificial Intelligence and Computer Games, focusing on heuristic search techniques such as single-agent (A*) and two-player (alpha-beta) search. Schaeffer has made significant contributions to the application of AI in various domains, including role-playing, sports, and real-time strategy games, and has partnered with industry leaders like Electronic Arts and BioWare. He is also a co-founder of Onlea, a company dedicated to crafting high-quality online learning experiences through Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). Schaeffer is committed to enhancing engagement and retention in online education.

Research Interests