Missouri State University has received a $489,183 National Science Foundation award that will fund undergraduate research opportunities in artificial intelligence and related technologies, according to a community announcement.
The three-year award will support the “REU Site: Applied Research in Deep Learning” project in the university’s department of computer science within the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. The project begins Oct. 1 and is designed to give students hands-on research experience in fields that include deep learning, cybersecurity, robotics, autonomous systems and social media analysis.
The award is the department’s first National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates Site grant.
Principal investigator
Mohammed Belkhouche is leading the project with co-principal investigators Siming Liu and Mukulika Ghoshe. The research team also includes Jamil Saquer, Hui Liu and CNAS Dean Magdalena Toda, along with department head Ajay Katangur.
“This achievement reflects Missouri State’s growing strength in machine learning research and its commitment to developing the next generation of scientists and innovators,” Toda said in the announcement.
Students to participate in summer research
Over three summers, 30 undergraduate students will take part in research projects focused on emerging technology challenges.
Students will work directly with faculty members while building research, problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills. The program also includes professional development activities and opportunities to connect with peers and industry professionals.
“This award is a significant milestone for the department of computer science and reflects the growing depth and quality of research being conducted by our faculty,” Katangur said in the announcement. “As our department expands its work in AI, deep learning, cybersecurity and autonomous systems, this REU Site provides an important opportunity to bring talented undergraduate students into that research environment.”
The program also will continue during the academic year through monthly meetings. Participants will have opportunities to present research findings, learn about conferences and receive guidance on graduate education and STEM career paths.
Research aims to extend classroom learning
Belkhouche said that the experience is intended to move students beyond traditional coursework and into active research.
“Hands-on research allows students to move beyond learning established concepts in the classroom and work on problems for which the answers are not already known,” Belkhouche said in the announcement. Students will examine ways artificial intelligence can help address real-world problems while gaining experience that may support future academic and professional goals in science, technology, engineering and math fields.
Program designed to build future researchers
University leaders said that the grant will help strengthen Missouri State’s research environment while creating opportunities for students to develop their own projects and present original findings.
“We’re especially excited to see students’ progress from arriving at Mo State as undergraduate participants to developing their own research ideas, producing meaningful results and presenting their original research at the end of the program,” Belkhouche said in the announcement.
This story was produced with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri State lands NSF grant expanding AI research opportunities
