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Research

Data Science faculty are grouped into clusters of research in four core thematic areas.

Artificial Intelligence 

Research in Artificial Intelligence at our institution covers a broad spectrum of foundational and applied topics, including Causal Inference, Uncertainty Quantification, Simulation, Information Interdependence, Graph Models, Streaming Algorithms, and Optimization. These areas are central to developing robust and interpretable machine learning models that can be applied across various domains. Our faculty collaborate closely to push the boundaries of AI, contributing to cutting-edge advancements that have real-world impact, from improving healthcare outcomes to enhancing the reliability of nuclear and particle physics experiments. 

Theoretical and Applied Experiments Leveraging Reinforcement Learning & Generative Models 
C. Fanelli, H. Chen, T. Ford 

Geometric and Geospatial Machine Learning Techniques: Application & Theory 
Y. He, D. Runfola, A. Nwala, T. Ford, A. Stefanidis 
 
Developing New Techniques for Transfer Learning, Unfolding and Domain Adaptation 
J. Wang, D. Runfola, C. Fanelli, T. Ford  

Data & Society 

There are a number of active research groups exploring the use of data to model and understand human activities. This includes applied and simulated programs in social network analysis, human-computer and human-information interactions, the computational aspects of digital humanities, computational social science aspects, and ethical issues associated with the proliferation of AI. Our researchers are focusing on leveraging large datasets to examine patterns in communication, behavior, and cultural trends, as well as developing frameworks to address the societal impacts of data-driven technologies. The integration of data science with social sciences provides critical insights into the dynamics of modern societies, including issues related to privacy, bias, public engagement with information, and the equitable distribution of technology. 

Socioeconomic Pattern Prediction Experiments and Applications 
D. Runfola, J. Swenson, H. Chen, A. Nwala, A. Stefanidis 

Theoretical and Simulated Models of Social Behavior  
T. Ford, Y. Xiong 

Studying Patterns of Human Interactions with Online Information 
Nwala, A. Stefanidis, T. Ford

Applications of AI and Machine Learning to improve Healthcare Outcomes 
Chen, H., J. Wang, A. Stefanidis 

Automated Data Processing & Anomaly Detection 

Research in Automated Data Processing and Anomaly Detection focuses on leveraging AI/ML algorithms to streamline the analysis of data collected from sensors, including physical sensors in nuclear and particle physics experiments, digital sensors monitoring network activities, and humans as sensors contributing and consuming information.  A key component of this research is the development of robust techniques to identify patterns, and detect and mitigate anomalies. This work is crucial for maintaining the reliability and accuracy of data-driven systems, especially in environments where timely and precise information is essential. 

Design, Reconstruction, and Anomaly Detection 
C. Fanelli, Nwala, A. 

Experimental Approaches to Measuring and Manipulating Information in Social Media Environments 
A. Nwala, T. Ford,  A. Stefanidis 

Theoretical and Synthetic Approaches to Data Generation 
H. Chen, Y. Xiong, C. Fanelli 

Data & The Environment 

This research leverages cutting-edge data science techniques to monitor and analyze environmental changes and their impact on ecosystems and human communities. Example projects include computer vision-powered marine animal tracking, using satellite data to monitor global-scope environmental outcomes, such as deforestation, climate change, and natural disasters, or using satellite data to deduce information on complex patterns of societal activities.  

Data-Driven Modeling and Estimation of Migratory Patterns for Resource Planning and Management 
Y. He, J. Swenson, Runfola, D. 

Satellite-based Monitoring and Observation of Environmental Outcomes 
J. Swenson, D. Runfola, H. Chen