Amanda Watson

Current Institution: University of Pennsylvania

Email: aawatson@seas.upenn.edu

Bio: Amanda Watson is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the PRECISE Center at the University of Pennsylvania. She is mentored by James Weimer and Insup Lee. Previously, she was a member of the LENS lab where she researched wearable technology with Gang Zhou. She received her Ph.D in Computer Science from the College of William and Mary in 2020, a M.S. in Computer Science from the College of William and Mary in 2016, and a B.A. in Computer Science and Mathematics from Drury University in 2014 where she was a 4 year letterman on the varsity volleyball team.

Abstract: Computation of Human Performance

Computation of human performance is the quantification, analysis, and optimization of an individual’s performance. This is accomplished through sensor design, system development, and real-world applications. I design highly-specialized wearable sensors to track biomarkers. SoftWear is soft wearable devices with sensors made from fabric that integrate seamlessly into clothing. Magneto tracks electromagnetic fields for motion detection. Lumos uses spectroscopy to see under the skin and bring new biomarkers to continuous wearable sensing. We developed Raproto and VitalCore, data collection systems that can be used during the rapid prototyping phase and at the commercial level. This research is applied in the real-world in clinic, on the field, and at home. I provide clinical decision support via explainable AI for customized medicine where patient progression is tracked and risk factors for bad outcomes are explained. I optimize athletic performance by decreasing the likelihood of injury and increasing gains for Division 1 athletic teams.