Sara Keen

Senior Research Scientist, Behavioral Ecology and AI

Professional Overview

Sara Keen is a highly accomplished behavioral ecologist and AI researcher with a strong focus on understanding animal communication and cognition. In her current role as Senior Research Scientist at the Earth Species Project, she leverages her expertise in signal processing, acoustics, and machine learning to unlock the secrets of interspecies communication and promote cross-cultural understanding.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As a Senior Research Scientist at the Earth Species Project, Sara is responsible for leading interdisciplinary research teams in developing advanced AI systems capable of deciphering and translating animal vocalizations. She oversees the design and implementation of novel signal processing algorithms, neural network architectures, and data-driven models to uncover the nuanced meanings and patterns within animal communication. Sara's work has been instrumental in advancing the organization's mission to foster greater appreciation and protection of biodiversity through improved interspecies communication.

Career Progression

Prior to joining the Earth Species Project, Sara held the position of Senior Signal Processing Engineer, Acoustics at Cruise, where she contributed to the development of advanced acoustic sensing systems for autonomous vehicles. She has also served as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Stanford University, where she conducted groundbreaking research on the vocal behaviors of various bird species. Earlier in her career, Sara was a Ph.D. Candidate at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, where she specialized in bioacoustics and animal communication, and an Application Programmer III at the same institution, where she developed innovative software tools for wildlife monitoring and analysis.

Academic Background

Sara holds a Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Cornell University, with a specialization in bioacoustics and animal behavior. Her doctoral research focused on deciphering the complex vocal repertoires of songbirds and their implications for social dynamics and conservation efforts.

Areas of Expertise

• Behavioral Ecology

• Bioacoustics and Animal Communication

• Signal Processing and Machine Learning

• Computational Neuroscience

• Wildlife Monitoring and Conservation

Professional Impact

Sara's research has been widely recognized and published in prestigious scientific journals, contributing to a deeper understanding of animal cognition and the role of communication in ecosystem dynamics. She has also been invited to deliver keynote speeches and participate in international conferences, sharing her insights and promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration. Her work has directly influenced the development of innovative technologies and AI-powered tools for wildlife monitoring and conservation efforts worldwide.

Conclusion

With her exceptional expertise, proven track record of achievement, and unwavering commitment to advancing the field of behavioral ecology and interspecies communication, Sara Keen is poised to make significant contributions to the Earth Species Project and the broader scientific community. Her innovative research and collaborative approach position her as a leading voice in the emerging field of animal-focused AI and technology.