Arshia Khan, PhD, MS

Dr. Arshia Khan is a Professor and Director of Graduate Studies of Computer Science at the University of Minnesota Duluth and the founder and director of the Dementia and Elderly Care Robotics and Sensing (DECRS) Lab. She leads interdisciplinary research at the intersection of healthcare technology, robotics, AI, and aging, with a focus on developing and deploying sensor-based systems and humanoid robots to support aging adults and individuals living with dementia, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Her work emphasizes ethical AI, human-robot interaction, and community-centered innovation, with a strong commitment to translational research that enhances quality of life for vulnerable populations.

Dr. Khan has received multiple grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for initiatives that advance diversity in computing, support undergraduate research, and develop healthcare-focused robotic and sensing technologies. Her research has led to the real-world deployment of humanoid robots and wearable sensors in skilled nursing homes, assisted living communities, and mental health facilities across Minnesota. These technologies have been used to assist with daily living tasks, provide emotional engagement, monitor mobility, and support dementia-related interventions.

Her current work also explores the use of EEG (electroencephalogram), EDA (Electrodermal Activity) and other wearable and spatial sensor technologies to understand cognitive decline and emotional states in individuals with dementia, with particular attention to the unique experiences of women affected by the disease. Dr. Khan’s research aims to uncover sex- and gender-specific health disparities in dementia care and design responsive, data-informed tools that can improve diagnosis, monitoring, and support for women.

A frequent invited speaker on topics such as inclusive innovation, culturally sensitive AI, and women in technology, Dr. Khan has published extensively on healthcare innovation and the social implications of robotics. She plays a critical role in designing hands-on, project-based computing curricula that connect students with real-world challenges in healthcare and aging. She also leads efforts to diversify the STEM pipeline by mentoring women and historically marginalized students in computing, robotics, and healthcare innovation.

Dr. Khan serves as the Programs Chair of the ISTAART Diversity and Disparities PIA Executive Committee of the Alzheimer’s Association, where she works to promote health equity and inclusive research practices in dementia care. As a Health and Aging Policy Fellow, she will explore policy frameworks to guide the responsible integration of robotics into elder care, with the goal of shaping national strategies that are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all communities."