Name: Robinson Umeike
Pronouns:
Institution: The University of Alabama
Department: Computer Science/Civil Engineering
Biography:
I am a third-year graduate student pursuing a combined MS/PhD program in Civil Engineering and a Master’s in Computer Science at the University of Alabama. My diverse background spans the Fintech industry, IT Project Management, Computer Science, Civil Engineering and academia, providing exposure to a wide range of practical challenges. Combining my expertise in both Computer Science and Civil Engineering, I have actively contributed to impactful research projects. These include research efforts in smart flood monitoring, computer vision for damage detection, crime prediction and analysis using machine learning, and resilient smart cities. These projects hold immense potential for effecting positive change in our communities. Throughout my academic journey, I have been actively involved as both a student researcher and a dedicated course instructor. These roles have deepened my interest in applying advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to solve practical problems. My goal is to further expand my knowledge in these areas through research at a prestigious national laboratory, where I can collaborate with experts and contribute to transformative advancements that benefit society.
Academic Status: PhD Student
Year in program: 3rd
Research Area/Department: Computer Science; Data Science; Engineering; Machine Learning/AI
Other, specify:
Major/Specialty: Computer Science: Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Deep Learning, Data Science, Internet of Things, Computer Vision. Civil Engineering: Smart City, Smart Infrastructure and Smart Mobility.
Degrees Earned or in Progress: Bachelors/Civil Engineering/Spring 2018 (COMPLETED) Masters /Civil Engineering/Fall 2023 (IN PROGRESS) Masters /Computer Science/Spring or Fall 2024 (IN PROGRESS) PhD/Civil Engineering/Spring 2026 (IN PROGRESS)
What courses or academic preparation have you completed to prepare for a summer internship experience?
- Artificial Intelligence – CS 565 (Course offered at University of Alabama) 2. Data Science – CS 551 (Course offered at University of Alabama) 3. Algorithm and Data Structures – CS 570 (Course offered at University of Alabama) 4. Programming Languages – CS 503 (Course offered at University of Alabama) 5. IoT and IoT Security – CS 648 (Course offered at University of Alabama) 6. Analysis of Operating Systems – CS 606 (Course offered at University of Alabama) 7. Statistics for Engineers – CE 573 (Course offered at University of Alabama) 8. Matrix Analysis of Structure (computational analysis of structures using MATLAB) – CE 532 (Course offered at University of Alabama) 9. Supervised Machine Learning: Regression and Classification “ Coursera 10. Neural Networks and Deep Learning (54KDN9MDDLXZ) – Coursera 11. Google IT Professional Certificate Course (Ongoing) “ Coursera 12. Qubit by Qubit’s Quantum Computing Course by IBM (Certification course)
Have you published any research or worked on research/technical projects? Yes
Where has your research been published or where have you conducted research/technical projects? 1. The 4th International Conference on Transportation Infrastructure and Sustainable Development (TISDIC) 2023 – https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1757-899X/1289/1/012022 2. The 35th IEEE International Conference on Tools with Artificial Intelligence (ICTAI) 2023 – https://ictai.computer.org/2023/
Please describe your research/academic interests:
My primary research interest explores harnessing the potential of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to address real-world human challenges across various domains. These include Cyberphysical systems, Smart healthcare, Intelligent mobility, sustainable practices, community and technological resilience, and advanced sensing technologies for enhancing civil infrastructure. Furthermore, I have a strong inclination toward engaging in productive research, particularly within the domain of computational science. This passion has propelled me to pursue a master’s degree in computer science, a pursuit I believe will equip me with the skills and knowledge needed to conduct groundbreaking research in the future. I view AI, machine learning, and other cutting-edge technologies as powerful tools that can significantly enhance the quality of life for people around the world. My ultimate goal is to contribute meaningfully to this endeavor and become part of the community of scientists and engineers dedicated to making our planet a better place for all.
Computational and Data Science Areas:
Computational Science Applications, i.e., Bioscience, Cosmology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Nanotechnology, Climate, etc.; Computer Science; National Security; Data Analytics and Visualization; Machine Learning and AI; Quantum Computing and Information Science
Research Synergy:
As an aspiring PhD candidate, I bear the responsibility of conducting impactful research in my field, guided by experienced mentors. My research lies at the intersection of AI, data science, and machine learning, making me keen to participate in enriching programs, such as those conducted at DOE labs across the nation. I hold this opportunity in high regard, recognizing the profound impact it can have on my understanding of computational science. It will undoubtedly prepare me for more fruitful research endeavors upon my return to my institution. Upon reviewing the research conducted at DOE labs, both past and present, I am enthusiastic about how this program aligns perfectly with my aspirations. I believe this program will position me to achieve my dream of effecting practical and transformative changes through the application of advanced technology and equipment. For instance, the Cyber Resilience and Intelligence and the Building Technologies divisions at Oak Ridge National Laboratory offer a conducive environment for me to explore research avenues involving AI, smart Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and energy-saving technologies for national security and resilient smart communities. Moreover, several renowned national labs, including Berkeley, Argonne, Sandia, and Lawrence Livermore, are pioneering groundbreaking work in AI, machine learning, data science, and other emerging smart computing technologies which also resonates with my research. I am also open to exploring new domains during this summer internship period like smart healthcare research. This opportunity is one I highly value and wouldn’t want to miss for anything.
Motivation:
My unwavering commitment to leveraging science, engineering, and computer technology to create a positive global impact fuels my unorthodox journey of self-improvement and continuous learning. It is this dedication that drives my application to the Sustainable Research Pathways (SRP) summer research program. I aspire to collaborate with accomplished researchers, indulging my innate curiosity for engaging in transformative scientific research. Through SRP, I see an opportunity to acquire new skills, expand my professional network, and explore front-line research within world-class laboratories. My primary focus is on advancing my expertise in leading-edge computational techniques, particularly in the domains of Data science, AI and Machine Learning. The potential for societal advancement through AI and machine learning has always captivated me, and I am eager to contribute to this field through rigorous research. I first learned about SRP from a colleague who participated in the program. Their firsthand experience piqued my interest, inspiring me to seek out this invaluable opportunity. The dynamic and ever-evolving nature of computing and AI align perfectly with my passion for continuous learning and exploration. I am excited to embark on this journey, hoping to make meaningful contributions to the world of AI and machine learning.
Lightning Talk Title: Transitioning towards Autonomy, Efficiency and Resiliency through AI and other emerging technologies.