Title: Research Professor, Scientist, Director of Medical Virtual Reality
Company: University of Southern California Institute for Creative Technologies
Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
Albert “Skip” Rizzo, PhD, research professor, scientist, and director of medical virtual reality at the University of Southern California Institute for Creative Technologies, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Scientists for dedication, achievements, and leadership in research, education, and consulting.
With 39 years of experience to his credit, Dr. Rizzo has excelled at the Institute for Creative Technologies, now the University of Southern California Institute for Creative Technologies, as a research scientist and research professor since 1994 and director of medical virtual reality since 2009. He began his career as a clinical psychologist from 1985 to 1995. At the University of Southern California, he garnered a stellar reputation as the Ayatollah of virtual reality, research professor, and scientist since 1995.
Dr. Rizzo has continued his career as the co-founder and chief research officer of Virtual Psychedelics since 2021. He has also served as chief science officer of Cognitive Leap Solutions Inc. since 2022 and chief scientist of UbiquityVX, Inc. since 2023. He has found success as a member of the scientific advisory board at Neo Auvra since 2022.
Before embarking on his professional path, Dr. Rizzo pursued an education at the University of Hartford, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1977. He continued his academic efforts at the University of New Orleans, obtaining a Master of Science in experimental psychology in 1981. He concluded his studies at Binghamton University, graduating with a PhD in clinical psychology in 1991.
Beyond his responsibilities within the field, Dr. Rizzo has participated in numerous endeavors outside of his professional circles. He contributed as a volunteer with SoldierStrong. He co-authored “Clinical Results from the Virtual Iraq Exposure Therapy Application for PTSD” and published several scientific papers related to his areas of expertise.
In addition to his primary vocation, Dr. Rizzo remains affiliated with various organizations in relation to his areas of expertise. He was a member of the American Psychological Association, the International Neuropsychological Society, the International Society for Virtual Rehabilitation, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
In light of his impressive undertakings, Dr. Rizzo has accrued several accolades throughout his career. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023. Additionally, he received a Distinguished Service Award from the International Society for Virtual Rehabilitation in 2021 and an Innovation in Trauma Award from the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.
Contact Dr. Rizzo: