Dr. Sean Follmer

Associate Professor

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Biography

Sean Follmer is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University with a courtesy appointment in Computer Science. He is the director of the Stanford Shape Lab and a core faculty member of the Stanford HCI Group. His research centers on Human-Computer Interaction, Haptics, and Human-Robot Interaction, with a focus on designing novel tactile interfaces and robotic devices. Follmer's lab investigates innovative ways to interact with digital information in a physical and tangible manner, aiming to bridge human-centered design with advanced technologies in robotics and mechatronics. He has published extensively in the field and his work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the NSF CAREER Award and the Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship. His research interests include shape-changing user interfaces, accessible technologies for people with visual impairments, and the development of interactive and dynamic physical displays that use haptic feedback. Follmer's contributions have been featured in prestigious venues and exhibitions, reflecting his commitment to advancing human-centered computing through design-driven approaches.

Research Interests

Experience

Postdoctoral Associate

— Present

MIT Media Lab • Cambridge, MA

Awards

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Paper Award

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NSF CAREER Award

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Paper Award

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Sloan Research Fellowship

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Short Paper Award

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Distinguished Paper Award

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Paper Award

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Google Faculty Research Award

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Demo Award

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Paper Award (x2)

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Google Faculty Research Award

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Paper Award

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Paper Award

Courses

DESIGN 141 DESIGN 361A DESIGN 361B CS 499 CS 499P CS 390A CS 390B CS 390C DESIGN 191A DESIGN 391A DESIGN 391 DESIGN 392 DESIGN 191H DESIGN 393 DESIGN 393W CS 390D CS 398 CS 491 CS 199A CS 299A CS 299B SYMSYS 190 CS 191 CS 195

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.