Robert L. Turknett
rturknett at austin dot rr dot com
Research
My research is in the areas of cognitive science, complexity theory, artificial intelligence, artificial life, evolutionary algorithms, artificial societies, and cellular automata. As a graduate student at the University of Texas, I developed an artificial society simulation called TokenTrade, to investigate how the trading behavior of a large number of agents in a psychological economy might give rise to increasing complexity and organization.
My master's thesis, An Artificial Society of Token Traders: Computer Simulation of Life, Happiness, and Complexity in Trade, is available here.
Java Programming
Since 1999, I have worked as a Java programmer and GUI developer in Austin, Texas. I've worked for Sun Microsystems, Innosoft International, and Acuity (only one of these companies still exists...can you guess which one?). My work has mostly involved building Java based web applications. If you are interested in hiring me, here is my resume: HTML / DOC
AMODA
From 1998-2002, I served as vice president of the Austin Museum of Digital Art (AMODA). AMODA is a non-profit institution that promotes access to and appreciation of digital art. Currently AMODA is a nomadic institution, holding exhibitions, showcases, lectures, youth programs and other events at various locations around Austin, often in collaboration with other arts and educational organizations. Ultimately, AMODA is envisioned as a permanent venue for digital art -- a world class art museum in downtown Austin, open to the public. I currently sit on the AMODA Advisory Board.
Music
I play guitar and sing in a band called F for Fake.
Photography
I am an amateur photographer, and I love taking pictures. Here are some photos from my trip to Europe in 2001. Disclaimer: These images are copyrighted and may not be used for commercial purposes without my expressed written consent.