From computer science education to AI theory, quantum computing, security and theoretical computer science, get to know five faculty members who joined the Department of Computer Science in 2026.
Harry Sha looks to spark students’ curiosity about computer science
Harry Sha still remembers his first computer science class. The assignments felt like fun puzzles that required creative problem-solving. It was his first year at Stanford University, and he was convinced he would study psychology. When the second computer science class in the sequence introduced algorithms and Sha built a mini version of Google Maps, he walked away feeling empowered.
Putting students first: Harry Sha and Pan Chen earn inaugural DCS Graduate Teaching Award
For Harry Sha, exceptional teaching means inspiring lasting curiosity. For Pan Chen, it’s about helping students learn in ways that go beyond simply absorbing course content. Though their definitions differ, both University of Toronto computer science PhD candidates share a commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences.