Van Parunak

Van Parunak has extensive work experience spanning over several decades. Van started their career in 1984 at the Industrial Technology Institute, where they held the position of Scientific Fellow. Van also worked at Altarum as a Scientific Fellow from 2000 to 2006.

In 1984, Van Parunak joined the Strategic Solutions Group (now part of Jacobs Technology) as Chief Scientist. In this role, they founded the AI group and led the group through a series of acquisitions. Van formulated the technical and research strategy for the group, staying with the company until 2013.

From 2013 to 2015, Van Parunak worked at Soar Technology as a Senior Scientist. During this time, they developed a technical vision for narrative analytics and a comprehensive architecture for data-driven decision support. Van also conceived, won, and led various projects in cyber-security, decision support, mission planning, and geospatial analysis.

In 2015, Van Parunak took on multiple roles simultaneously. Van became the President of ABC Research, LLC and also held the position of VP, Technology Innovation at Axon Connected, LLC. At ABC Research, they took on leadership responsibilities, and at Axon Connected, they focused on technology innovation.

Most recently, Van Parunak joined Parallax Advanced Research in 2017 as a Senior Research Scientist. Van continues to contribute their expertise to the field of research.

Van Parunak completed their education with an AB in Physics from Princeton University, which they earned between 1965 and 1969. Van later pursued a Ph.D. in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations at Harvard University from 1975 to 1978. Finally, they obtained an MS in Computer and Communication Science from the University of Michigan, where they studied from 1981 to 1982.