Biography:
Karen Ann Panetta is an American computer engineer and inventor who has made significant contributions to the field of engineering and technology. She serves as a professor and Dean of Graduate Education at Tufts University, where she has pioneered research in machine learning and automated systems.
Panetta’s interest in engineering originated from a young age, and she pursued her passion by enrolling as an undergraduate student at Boston University. She specialized in computer engineering, laying the foundation for her future career. Panetta then furthered her education at Northeastern University, where she obtained a master’s degree in electrical engineering. She continued her academic journey at Northeastern, focusing her doctoral studies on information systems and robotics.
In 1994, Panetta joined the Tufts University School of Engineering, where she made history as the first woman to achieve tenure. Throughout her career, she has developed innovative signal and image processing algorithms, with a particular emphasis on robot vision and biomedical imaging. One notable achievement of Panetta’s is the creation of autonomous software with applications in medical diagnostics. For instance, she developed software capable of identifying pneumonia caused by COVID-19 and another program that provides detailed information to dentists about areas of the mouth requiring attention.
Beyond her research accomplishments, Panetta is a strong advocate for improving the representation of women in the field of engineering. She has been appointed as the worldwide director for the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Women in Engineering program and editor-in-chief of the Women in Engineering magazine. In 1999, Panetta founded Nerd Girls, a platform dedicated to challenging stereotypes about women in science. Additionally, she is a co-author of the book Count Girls In, which encourages parents to raise authentic young women.
Awards:
– 2011 Anita Borg Institute Women of Vision Award
– 2012 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring
– 2013 William E. Sayle II Award for Achievement in Education
– 2013 IEEE Award for Distinguished Ethical Practices
– 2020 IEEE-USA Award for Distinguished Literary Contributions Furthering Public Understanding and the Advancement of the Engineering Profession
– 2021 Elected to the National Academy of Inventors
Karen Panetta’s pioneering work in computer engineering and her dedication to promoting inclusivity and representation in the field have earned her numerous accolades and honors. Her contributions continue to have a profound impact on the advancement of technology and the empowerment of women in engineering.