Dr. Karon Maclean

Professor

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Biography

Karon MacLean is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of British Columbia. With a strong background in robotics engineering and human-computer interaction, she leads the Sensory Perception & Interaction Research Group (SPIN). MacLean earned her B.Sc. in Biology and Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University, followed by an M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from MIT. She has significant research contributions in haptic interaction and cognitive sensory design, focusing on the use of robots and interfaces to enhance human senses and therapeutic applications. Her work bridges the fields of haptics, HCI, and robotics, resulting in innovative solutions for understanding affective touch. Throughout her career, she has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the NSERC Accelerator in 2013, the Charles McDowell Award in 2008, and the Izaak Walton Killam Memorial Faculty Research Fellowship in 2007. MacLean has held leadership roles in the IEEE Haptics Symposium and serves on various editorial advisory boards in her field. Her current research interests include developing technology that aids in speech understanding through haptic feedback and exploring the therapeutic benefits of touch in human-robot interactions.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

University of British Columbia • Vancouver, BC

Professor in the Department of Computer Science, leading research in haptic interaction and sensory perception.

Awards

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NSERC Accelerator

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Charles McDowell Award

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Izaak Walton Killam Memorial Faculty Research Fellowship

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.