kids encyclopedia robot

Karen Petrie facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Karen Elizabeth Jefferson Petrie
Born (1980-12-02)December 2, 1980
Nationality British
Alma mater University of St Andrews, University of Huddersfield, University of Oxford
Scientific career
Fields Computer science
Institutions University of Dundee
Thesis Constraint Programming, Search and Symmetry (2005)
Doctoral advisor Barbara Smith

Karen Petrie is a British computer scientist. She is an expert in a special area called constraints programming. This is about solving problems by finding solutions that fit certain rules or "constraints."

In 2004, the British Computer Society (BCS) named her the young IT practitioner of the year. She earned this award for amazing work she did while working at NASA. Today, she is a professor at the University of Dundee in Scotland.

Who is Karen Petrie?

Karen Petrie is a leading expert in computer science. She teaches and researches at the University of Dundee. Her work helps us understand how computers can solve complex problems.

Early Career and NASA Work

Karen Petrie studied at several top universities. These include the University of St Andrews and the University of Oxford. She then worked at NASA, the famous space agency. While there, she did important computer work. This work helped her win a big award in 2004. It showed she was a rising star in the world of technology.

A Professor in Computer Science

Today, Karen Petrie is a full professor. This means she is a top teacher and researcher. She works in the School of Science and Engineering at the University of Dundee. She helps students learn about computer science. She also does her own research to push the boundaries of what computers can do.

Helping Women in Tech

Karen Petrie is also a strong supporter of women in computing. She wants more girls and women to get involved in technology. From 2008 to 2011, she led a group called BCSWomen. This group helps women who work with computers. During her time as leader, she organized many events. These events encouraged women to join and succeed in the tech world.

The Petrie Multiplier Idea

Karen Petrie also came up with an idea called "The Petrie Multiplier." This idea talks about how people might face unfair comments. It especially looks at groups where there are many more men than women. She suggested that if there are 'r' times more men than women, women might hear 'r' times 'r' (or r squared) more unfair comments than men. This idea helps people understand challenges that women might face in some workplaces.

kids search engine
Karen Petrie Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.