Michael Shamos

Distinguished Career Professor, Language Technologies Institute
Institute for Software Research

Michael Shamos is a Distinguished Career Professor at Carnegie Mellon University's Language Technologies Institute (LTI), where his expertise spans experimental mathematics, artificial intelligence, and legal aspects of technology. His research focuses on generating and proving newly-discovered mathematical theorems, particularly in number theory, through computational methods. Dr. Shamos has developed systems that automatically produce provable theorems, contributing hundreds of novel results to the field. His unique approach combines mathematical rigor with computational creativity, uncovering new patterns and yielding mathematical insights.  He is also a faculty member in the Software and Societal Systems Department, and previously held appointments three other departments: Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics and also in the Tepper School of Business. 

Dr. Shamos earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science from Yale University and holds advanced degrees in Physics, Technology of Management, and Law. His multidisciplinary background underpins his contributions to academia and industry, particularly in electronic voting security, intellectual property, and e-commerce. As an expert witness, he has provided critical testimony in high-profile legal cases involving companies such as Google and PayPal, bringing his practical experience into the classroom to enrich his teaching on the intersection of law and technology.

At Carnegie Mellon, Dr. Shamos directs the MSAII program, advising its 74 students, and teaches courses such as "AI & Future Markets" and "The Law of Computer Technology." His dedication to teaching is reflected in outstanding faculty evaluations and the success of his students. Beyond the classroom, he evaluates hundreds of graduate applications annually, and actively contributes to discussions on electronic voting and privacy. Through his research, teaching, and service, Dr. Shamos continues to make an indelible impact on the fields of AI, mathematics, and technology law.

Research Areas