Summary
Cliff Shaffer is a veteran computer science professor at Virginia Tech with nearly four decades of academic and research experience focused on algorithm design, visualization, bioinformatics, and problem-solving environments. He combines deep theoretical expertise in data structures and hierarchical systems with practical work in GIS, computer graphics, and digital education, teaching and mentoring generations of students since the late 1980s. Cliff has led conference organization efforts such as SpringSim and maintains long-term ties to the University of Maryland research community where he earned his degrees. Known for translating complex algorithms into visual, educational tools, he brings a rare blend of rigorous analysis and pedagogy to both research and curriculum development. Based in Blacksburg, he continues to bridge foundational CS theory with applied interdisciplinary projects in computational biology and visualization.
14 years of coding experience
10 years of employment as a software developer
PhD, MS, BS, Computer Science, PhD, MS, BS, Computer Science at University of Maryland