Chad Tossell
Principal Research Associate
Human and Sociotechnical Systems Research (HSSR)

Dr. Chad Tossell (Lt Col, Retired) leads the Human and Sociotechnical Systems Research (HSSR) Program in the Center for National Security Initiatives (NSI) at the University of Colorado, Boulder. He graduated with a B.A. in Psychology from UC Berkeley, a M.S. in Applied Psychology from Arizona State University, and a Ph.D. in Human Factors / Human-Computer Interaction from Rice University. Before joining NSI, Dr. Tossell taught courses in human factors, psychology, and systems engineering at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) winning the Outstanding Academy Educator Award in 2023. His research in human-AI teaming, automated driving, social robotics, training, and the will to fight has resulted in a wide range of publications, multiple research awards, and featured in media outlets such as The Economist. In addition to his time at USAFA, Dr. Tossell served as a Behavioral Scientist and Developmental Engineer in a variety of technical and leadership positions around the world including the Air Force Research Laboratory for six years as program manager, team lead, technical advisor, and branch chief. In support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Resolute Support, Dr. Tossell deployed to Afghanistan in 2014-2015 where he served as the Director of Operations for the Security Assistance Office and awarded the Bronze Star Medal.