Chris Murphy
Senior Lecturer in Computer Science
Chris Murphy is a Senior Lecturer in Computer Science, where he teaches courses in introductory programming and software development. Chris' research to date has focused on creating inclusive classroom environments that are supportive of student mental health generally, and specifically that are welcoming to students living with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc.
His research looks at the effect that deadline and grading policies, syllabus statements, and instructor attitude have on students’ experiences and their perceptions of how much they are learning and how much they feel welcome in their courses. Prior to joining the faculty at Columbia, Chris was a member of the teaching faculty at the University of Pennsylvania and at Bryn Mawr College, where he earned teaching awards in 2019 and 2023, respectively. Chris holds a PhD in Computer Science from Columbia Engineering, and previously worked as a software developer in Boston, San Francisco, and London.
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Professional Experience
- Senior Lecturer, Columbia University, 2025-
- Visiting Assistant Professor, Swarthmore College, 2023-2025
- Senior Lecturer, Bryn Mawr College, 2020-2023
- Associate Professor of Practice, University of Pennsylvania, 2013-2020
- Lecturer, University of Pennsylvania, 2010-2013
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Honors & Awards
- DO-IT Trailblazer Award, Univ. of Washington, 2023
- Rosalyn R. Schwartz Teaching Award, Bryn Mawr College, 2023
- Provost’s Award for Teaching Excellence by Non-Standing Faculty, University of Pennsylvania, 2019
- Paul Charles Michelman Memorial Award for Exemplary Service, Columbia University, 2009
- Presidential Teaching Award, Columbia University, 2007
- Andrew P. Kosoresow Memorial Award for Excellence in Teaching and Service, Columbia University, 2006
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Education
- PhD, Computer Science, Columbia University
- MS, Computer Science, Columbia University
- BS, Computer Engineering, Boston University