Dr. Briana Van Fossen (Previously Dr. Briana Sobel) is a tenure-track assistant professor in the Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology Department. Dr. Van Fossen holds a Ph.D. in Human Factors and Cognitive Psychology and an M.A. in Applied Experimental Human Factors Psychology, both from the University of Central Florida. She also completed a B.S in Psychology with a minor in Industrial Design from Georgia Institute of Technology. Her research interests include human-automation interaction, human-AI interaction, human-agent teaming and the influence of anthropomorphism on the human-agent relationship.
Her expertise lies in applying theories and methods of cognitive psychology to understand and design effective human-agent teams. Previous work has included assessing humanlike vs. machinelike dialogue in a text-based search interface, differences in perceived mental capabilities of moving shapes labeled as humans vs. nonhumans, the influence of partner location on self-other integration in collaborative tasks, and differences in self-other integration when working with humans vs. robots or computers. Her current work focuses on artificial intelligence, including perceptions/understanding of AI and similarities/differences in human-AI vs human-human relationships. Future goals will apply these findings to the field of aviation and beyond.
Dr. Van Fossen aspires to one day obtain a private pilot's license during her time at Embry-Riddle, both as a personal achievement and to facilitate her research and make significant contributions to the aviation industry. She also holds an avid interest in spaceflight, having seen dozens of launches during her time living on the space coast.
Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology: Human Factors Psychology Track, University of Central Florida
M.A. - Master of Arts in Applied Experimental and Human Factors: Psychology, University of Central Florida