Zachary Kaufman

Studying the use of Large Language Models (LLMs) in human exploration missions in which communication delays will be common, such as on the NASA Artemis missions. We will test our LLM countermeasures in simulated environments at CU Boulder as well as at NASA's HERA environment in which communication delays between team members will be present.

Collaboration with Colorado School of Mines.

Multidisciplinary research studying the effects of misinformation on decision-making processes across various environments. Using fNIRS, fMRI, and eye tracking to understand cognitive vulnerabilities and develop AI-powered detection systems.

My current focus is on studying social media and it's cognitive effects from a neurocognitive perspective.

Collaboration with the USAF Academy.

Large-scale DoD-funded project developing methods to detect human trust in AI systems using physiological signals, micro-expressions, and ECG data. Created machine learning models to identify trust changes during human deception scenarios.

Developed perception models for Honda's Haru robot to dynamically adapt to children's engagement levels using non-invasive sensors. Focused on privacy-preserving interactions and creating meaningful connections across age and cultural barriers.

Participatory design research for Socially Assistive Robots supporting individuals with Major Depressive Disorder. Assisted in development of sensor suite for the robot, as well as workshops with participants to co-design robot appearance, programming, and sensor integration for symptom monitoring and management.