Biography

Anna Alber is a Senior Research Scientist in Information Systems & Technology at Chapman University. She serves as the lead architect of PantherAI, Chapman’s secure, multi-model generative AI platform, created to support faculty research and teaching through open-source innovation and institutional integration. Her work spans applied research computing, AI/ML tool development, and cross-campus technology strategy, with a focus on making advanced tools accessible and usable by researchers in diverse fields.

Anna collaborates with faculty across disciplines to co-develop solutions ranging from AI tools to data analysis pipelines and research portals. She supports a broad spectrum of research—from health and medical sciences to the humanities—and regularly leads workshops and presentations aimed at building AI literacy and confidence with emerging technologies. Her work emphasizes clear communication, user-centered design, and educational engagement alongside technical development.

She is a co-author of the PEARC25 publication AI Project Facilitation Guidance for Research Computing and Data (RCD) Professionals and a recent graduate of the NSF-funded CI Pathways program in AI/ML. She contributes to national conversations on emerging technologies through EDUCAUSE, CaRCC, Internet2, and other collaborative platforms.

Her work connects researchers, facilitators, and technologists across institutional boundaries to design practical, user-centered tools that support innovation in research and education.