I am a Computer Science Ph.D. and Lecturer in the Computer Science Department at the University of Massachusetts Boston, with a background spanning virtual reality, augmented reality, computer graphics, human-computer interaction, perception systems, and automotive technologies.
My doctoral research at Michigan Technological University focused on distance perception in virtual reality, where I designed and conducted controlled VR experiments, collected and analyzed behavioral and movement data, and evaluated how experimental procedures affect human perception in immersive environments. Through this work, I developed strong experience in experimental design, sensor-based data collection, Unity development, statistical analysis, and validation of complex human-centered systems. I also bring industry experience from Visteon Corporation, where I worked as an ADAS Engineering Intern and Product Design Technical Lead Intern. These roles gave me exposure to automotive software, driver monitoring, product development, data analysis, and cross-functional engineering collaboration. My technical background includes Python, C++, C#, Unity, OpenGL, GLSL, VR/AR hardware, data analysis, and software development across Windows, Linux, and macOS environments. I am especially interested in roles involving perception systems, sensor data collection and validation, VR/AR, ADAS, robotics, human-centered AI, and emerging automotive technologies. As both a researcher and educator, I enjoy turning complex technical problems into practical systems, clear insights, and meaningful learning experiences. Authorized to work in the U.S. for any employer; U.S. Green Card holder.

Soheil Sepahyar

Lecturer & Ph.D. in Computer Science specializing in VR/AR, HCI, AI, and Robotics

Research Expertise

HCI

Robotics

About

I am a Computer Science Ph.D. and Lecturer in the Computer Science Department at the University of Massachusetts Boston, with a background spanning virtual reality, augmented reality, computer graphics, human-computer interaction, perception systems, and automotive technologies. <br> My doctoral research at Michigan Technological University focused on distance perception in virtual reality, where I designed and conducted controlled VR experiments, collected and analyzed behavioral and movement data, and evaluated how experimental procedures affect human perception in immersive environments. Through this work, I developed strong experience in experimental design, sensor-based data collection, Unity development, statistical analysis, and validation of complex human-centered systems. I also bring industry experience from Visteon Corporation, where I worked as an ADAS Engineering Intern and Product Design Technical Lead Intern. These roles gave me exposure to automotive software, driver monitoring, product development, data analysis, and cross-functional engineering collaboration. My technical background includes Python, C++, C#, Unity, OpenGL, GLSL, VR/AR hardware, data analysis, and software development across Windows, Linux, and macOS environments. I am especially interested in roles involving perception systems, sensor data collection and validation, VR/AR, ADAS, robotics, human-centered AI, and emerging automotive technologies. As both a researcher and educator, I enjoy turning complex technical problems into practical systems, clear insights, and meaningful learning experiences. Authorized to work in the U.S. for any employer; U.S. Green Card holder.

Publications

Comparing Four Important Sorting Algorithms Based on Their Time Complexity

Proceedings of the 2019 2nd International Conference on Algorithms, Computing and Artificial Intelligence

2019

Effects of Brightness on Distance Judgments in Head Mounted Displays

ACM Symposium on Applied Perception 2020

2020

VR Distance Judgments are Affected by the Amount of Pre-Experiment Blind Walking

ACM Symposium on Applied Perception 2022

2022

THE IMPACT OF PRE-EXPERIMENT WALKING ON DISTANCE PERCEPTION IN VR

Unknown Venue

Education

Michigan Technological University

Islamic Azad University Central Tehran Branch

Allameh Tabatabaei High School (Abshenasan Branch)

Michigan Technological University

Ph.D., Computer Science / 2023

Michigan Technological University

M.S., Computer Science / 2022

Azad University Tehran

B.S., Computer Software Engineering / 2018

Experience

UMass Boston

Lecturer in Computer Science / January, 2024 — Present

Michigan Technological University

Graduate Teaching Assistant and Lab Instructor / January, 2019 — December, 2023

As a dedicated Graduate Teaching Assistant and Lab Instructor, I bring hands-on experience in teaching and mentoring students across core Computer Science courses, including Computer Organization, Data Structures, Introduction to Computing, Theory of Computation, and Computer Graphics. With a strong foundation in systems-level programming, algorithm design, automata theory, and visual computing, I am passionate about helping students bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world applications. Throughout my teaching experience, I’ve led lab sessions, created educational materials, supported diverse student cohorts, and provided one-on-one assistance to reinforce difficult concepts. My approach emphasizes clarity, engagement, and structured problem-solving, fostering a positive and productive learning environment. Strong programming background in C, C++, Python, and Java. Experienced in grading, lab management, and course coordination.

Graduate Research Assistant / January, 2019 — December, 2023

Working on Virtual Reality, Distance Perception In VR and Human-Computer-Interaction (HCI) related Research. Designing the different experimental procedures for distance perception VR research. Analyzing the data related to distance underestimation in VR. Analyzing simulated environmental factors and their influence on distance perception in VR. Working with Unity game engine and OpenGL, GLSL libraries to build the VR environment. Using various VR framework for VR developments and experimental VR design. Data Collection using modern HMDs such as Meta Quest Pro and Meta Quest 2 and Oculus CV1.

Ph.D. Researcher / January, 2019 — December, 2023

Conducted experimental research on distance perception in virtual environments using Unity and OpenGL. Published and presented findings at the ACM Symposium on Applied Perception (SAP 2020, 2022).

Visteon Corporation

Product Design Technical Lead Intern (PDTL) / May, 2022 — August, 2022

1) Writing the data analysis GUI software for DV testing data using python. 2) Coordinate last-minute build material for PV build and support the coordination of 8D report resolution. 3) Coordinate certification activities (software, system, sample, supplier) and vehicle tests (road test, audio test, etc.) 4) Leading and managing weekly hardware software engineers meetings.

AI/ML and Test Engineer Intern / May, 2021 — August, 2021

• Working on a driver monitoring system (DMS) for the AI and ML levels of the vehicle. • Using deep learning algorithms for monitoring driver head position and the vehicle. This has been done by studying and doing the research on the most updated research in this area with lightweight networks to assist the speed of the computation. • Testing the vehicle software at the deep level, flashing the vehicle's Software using various methods including the QFill and USB flashing and Electronic Cockpit installation

ADAS Engineering Intern / June, 2020 — August, 2020

• Developing and designing improved self-automated driving cars and advanced driver-assistance systems software. • Improving the models of lightweight depth perception packages. • Detecting distance and depth perception using LiDAR and Monocular camera with deep learning and Image processing. • Using Convolutional Neural Network and deep learning for data training for depth perception and Improving accuracy of depth perception and distance detection.

University of Massachusetts Boston

Lecturer / January, 2024 — December

Teach and coordinate large-enrollment undergraduate courses (approximately 150-200 students per semester) across multiple sections including CS110 - Introduction to Computing, CS210 - Intermediate Computing with Data Structures, CS220 - Applied Discrete Mathematics, CS240 - Programming in C, CS410 - Software Engineering, CS420 - Theory of Computation, CS450 - Structure of Higher-Level Programming Languages. Design and deliver structured curricula, programming assignments, and exams with emphasis on conceptual clarity, problem-solving, and real-world applicability. Implement scalable assessment systems using Gradescope and custom autograding pipelines, improving grading efficiency and consistency. Foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment by maintaining clear communication, structured course organization, and responsive student support. Manage course logistics and coordination across multiple sections.

Links & Social Media

Research Web Site

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