Frost Institute for Data Science & Computing

Santiago Ortiz: Intelligences Workshop 11/12-15
2024-11-12 16:00 - 2024-11-15 20:00 (America/New_York) | Newman Alumni Center, 6200 San Amaro Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, United States
Following VizUM 2024, a workshop led by Santiago Ortiz of Moebio Labs will be held Tuesday-Friday, November 12-15, 4:00-8:00 PM each day (content not repeated) at the Newman Alumni Center. Investigating how data is a part of our lives, the worksho will explore all forms intelligence through activities and experiments punctuated by videos and interactive projects.
“Intelligences Workshop: Intelligence is Information Having Fun”
The future of humanity depends on finding harmony within an ecology that includes matter and energy but also information, computation, and multiple types of intelligences. While we learn, very slowly, to accept that other biological species are also highly intelligent, new varieties of algorithmic (or artificial) intelligences are becoming more ubiquitous and more integrated into human affairs.
In this workshop, we’ll explore from multiple angles, and through different experiments and activities, what intelligence is (what intelligences are, really). Intelligence, seen as the emergence of information computation, exists everywhere in the universe, and here on Earth we see it at many scales: fundamental particles, chemistry, cellular, and organism interactions. All forms of life, each species, each individual indeed, expresses intelligence in its own unique way. But we also see intelligence in algorithms, and mechanical and digital machines. It’s also present in cities, information networks, and culture. At each scale, for each system, intelligence mediates internal and external information, allowing systems to thrive, replicate, evolve, or disappear.
The Intelligences Workshop is based on activities, exploration, and experiments, punctuated by some videos and interactive projects. We’ll use data science, data visualization, design, storytelling, and humor as tools to explore the infinite ecology of intelligences.
Workshop Lineup

Information | How can we extract information from the world and from ourselves? Entropy, data, information and meaning. Making information visual and tangible. Information is everywhere! The information session is about experiencing information that surrounds us, even if we cannot see it.
Intelligence | Let’s play with information, let’s help information play with itself. We’ll play with paper computers, experiment with semantic computation, become ribosomes to decode a hidden message, and play against a matchboxes learning machine.
Human Infosphere | Humans absorb and radiate data. We’ll investigate how data is part of our lives, what data we can capture, and what’s the value of that data.
Creativity | We’ll play with our own data and have fun with information. Based on data about ourselves, collected in the Information session, we’ll explore differences and similarities between us, and build a mini-collective intelligence.

PLEASE NOTE: This workshop is open by invitation. If you are interested in participating, please contact Prof. Alberto Cairo: a.cairo@miami.edu.
About Santiago Ortiz
Santiago creates digital experiences that help people solve complex problems with data, and explores synergies between human and algorithmic intelligences. He also develops interfaces that allow for exploration, combination, deep understanding, and decision making based on large, diverse, and dynamic datasets. Santiago has experience as a teacher, digital media artist, interactive data visualization researcher, data scientist, product leader, and entrepreneur. Read more about Santiago from his IDSC Data Citizens Distinguished Lecture Series lecture.

LOCATION
Newman Alumni Center
6200 San Amaro Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146
Parking information forthcoming . . .

VizUM Symposium Monday 11/11 goes Beyond Data Visualization
2024-11-11 16:00 - 20:00 | Newman Alumni Center, 6200 San Amaro Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, United States
REGISTRATION OPENS AT 3:30. Join us on Monday afternoon, November 11, 2024 (4:00-7:00 PM), at the Newman Alumni Center as we welcome Santiago Ortiz, Rahul Bhargava, and Lauren F. Klein for with ViZUM 2024: Beyond Data Visualization lectures on new or more inclusive ways of looking at or understanding visualization. This event is free and open to the public.

Register Now (free)
Launched in 2014, VizUM is a free annual data visualization symposium held featuring speakers who are pioneers in the field, whose vision drive products and styles we see around us daily, and who forge new ground in this domain. VizUM is sponsored by IDSC, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the UM College of Arts & Sciences, and the UM School of Communication Center for Communication, Culture and Change.
AGENDA
3:30 Registration Opens
4:00 Introduction by Alberto Cairo
4:15 Santiago Ortiz
5:00 Rahul Bhargava
5:45 Lauren Klein
6:30 Closing Remarks
7:00 Event ends
LOCATION
University of Miami Newman Alumni Center
6200 San Amaro Drive (Room: Multi-Purpose ABC)
Coral Gables, FL 33146
FREE PARKING is valid in Gray Zones only (see map below). Park head-in only.
Click Here to enter your license plate number, click NEXT, then enter the registration code: 111124

Speakers

Santiago Ortiz | Moebio Labs
Santiago creates digital experiences that help people solve complex problems with data. He explores synergies between human and algorithmic intelligences. He develops interfaces that allow for exploration, combination, deep understanding, and decision making based on large, diverse and dynamic datasets. He has experience as a teacher, digital media artist, interactive data visualization researcher, data scientist, product leader and entrepreneur.

TALK
Intelligence Everywhere
The future of humanity depends on finding harmony within an ecology that includes matter and energy but also information, computation, and multiple types of intelligences. While we learn, very slowly, to accept that other biological species are also highly intelligent, a new variety of algorithmic (or artificial) intelligences are becoming more ubiquitous and more integrated into human affairs.
In this talk I’ll introduce a variety of perspectives on intelligence. Seen as the emergence of information computation, intelligence exists everywhere in the universe, and here on Earth we see it at many scales: fundamental particles, chemistry, cellular, and organism interactions. All forms of life, each species, each individual indeed, expresses intelligence in its own unique way. But we also see intelligence in algorithms, and mechanical and digital machines. It’s also present in cities, information networks, and culture. At each scale, for each system, intelligence mediates internal and external information, allowing systems to thrive, replicate, evolve, or disappear.
Through interactive data visualization projects and ideas, this presentation aims to widen the concept of intelligence, and to point to ways we can create and collaborate with the new emergent ecology of algorithmic intelligences.

Rahul Bhargava | Northeastern University
Rahul Bhargava is an educator, researcher, and designer who builds collaborative projects to interrogate our datafied society with a focus on rethinking participation and power in data processes. His innovative approaches to data in community settings include award-winning data murals, data sculptures, interactive data exhibits, and data theatre.
Rahul has created big data research tools to investigate media attention, built AI-based tools that support activists monitoring news for human rights violations, designed hands-on interactive museum exhibits that delight learners of all ages, and has run over 100 workshops to build data culture in newsrooms, non-profits, and libraries.

He has collaborated with groups ranging from the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil to the World Food Program. Rahul’s publishes regularly in academic journals on data literacy, technology, and civic technology; his work has been shown at the Boston Museum of Science, Eyebeam in New York City, and the Fuller Craft Museum. Rahul is currently an Assistant Professor in Journalism and Art + Design at Northeastern University, where he directs the Data Culture Group. His first book, “Community Data: Creative Approaches to Empowering People with Information”, is coming this fall from Oxford University Press.
TALK
Fight the Bar Chart
Our standard toolkit of chart and graphs is poorly suited for the new community-oriented settings where data is now commonly used. Inspired by the arts, we can break free from outdated data practices and embrace creative, community-centered approaches that empower and engage people in public settings. Data sculptures, data murals, data theatre, and multi-sensory data experiences offer a broader and more appropriate set of approaches. Using this larger toolbox of data viz techniques can bring people together around data in ways that more fully reflect, embrace, and uplift their communities.

Lauren F. Klein | Emory University
Lauren is the Winship Distinguished Research Professor and Associate Professor in the Departments of Quantitative Theory and Methods and English at Emory University, where she also directs the Digital Humanities Lab and serves as PI of the Atlanta Interdisciplinary AI Network. Before arriving at Emory, Lauren taught in the School of Literature, Media, and Communication at Georgia Tech. She received her PhD in English and American Studies from the CUNY Graduate Center, and her AB in Literature (English and French) from Harvard University.
Lauren works at the intersection of data science, AI, and the humanities, with an emphasis on questions of gender and race. She is the author of several books, including Data Feminism (MIT Press 2020, coauthor Catherine D’Ignazio), which was named a “Must-Read Book for Spring 2020” by WIRED Magazine; and An Archive of Taste: Race and Eating in the Early United States (University of Minnesota Press, 2020), which shows how thinking about eating can help to tell new stories about the range of people, from the nation’s first presidents to their enslaved chefs, who worked to establish a cultural foundation for the United States.

Her next major project, Data by Design: An Interactive History of Data Visualization, coauthored with members of her research group, will be published in print and online by the MIT Press in 2024. With Matthew K. Gold, Lauren edits Debates in the Digital Humanities (University of Minnesota Press), a hybrid print/digital publication stream that explores debates in the field as they emerge. The most recent book in this series is Debates in the Digital Humanities 2019.
In previous incarnations, Lauren has worked as a web developer, educational technology consultant, music producer, and bike messenger. She says she has not, however, appeared on Law & Order, designed customized silver jewelry, or performed award-winning gymnastics routines. You can view her official bio here.
TALK
The Line Graph and the Slave Ship: Rethinking the Origins of Modern Data Visualization
“The Line Graph and the Slave Ship” takes us back over two hundred years in order to show how data visualization was—and remains—a tremendous form of power. Exploring two historical examples, the line graphs of British trade data included in William Playfair’s Commercial and Political Atlas (1786) and “Description of a Slave Ship” (1789), created and circulated by a group of British antislavery activists, I will demonstrate how the act of visualizing data always involves more than just turning numbers into visual form.
What forms of information are captured by the data? Whose knowledge or experience does the data represent? What knowledge or experience does the designer bring to the visualization process? For what purposes, and for whose goals? These are some of the questions that this talk will engage. Together, they show how questions of ethics and justice have always been present in the field of data visualization, and how they continue to offer lessons to those of us who design and view data visualizations today.

Photo Gallery
[gm album=185

2-Day Software Carpentry “Python” Workshop at Medical Campus 10/31+11/1
2024-10-31 09:00 - 2024-11-01 16:30 | Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, 1120 NW 14th St, Miami, FL, 33136, United States
Join us for a free-2-day, in-person only Software Carpentry “Python” Workshop at Medical Campus on Thursday and Friday, October 31 and November 1, 2024, at the CTSI Research Training Center (Rooms 710 Q-R). Course Hours both days: 9:00AM – 4:30PM. (Course lasts two days—content is not repeated).
Software Carpentry aims to help researchers get their work done in less time and with less pain by teaching them basic research computing skills. This hands-on 2-day workshop will cover basic concepts and tools, including program design, version control, data management, and task automation. Participants will be encouraged to help one another and to apply what they have learned to their own research problems.
This Session is full! Please email tnorris@miami.edu to be put on a Waiting List.

Click here for the Syllabus, which includes: The Code of Conduct, Pre- and Post-Workshop Surveys, a detailed schedule, and the required (free) software with installation instructions.
Who
The course is aimed at graduate students and other researchers. You don’t need to have any previous knowledge of the tools that will be presented at the workshop.
Where
Rooms 710 R&Q, Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, 1120 NW 14th St., Miami, FL 33136. Get directions with OpenStreetMap or Google Maps.
When
Oct 31+Nov 1, 2024; 9:00 am – 4:30 pm EST Add to your Google Calendar.
Requirements
Participants must bring a laptop with a Mac, Linux, or Windows operating system (not a tablet, Chromebook, etc.) that they have administrative privileges on. They should have a few specific software packages installed (listed below).
Accessibility
We are committed to making this workshop accessible to everybody. The workshop organizers have checked that:

The room is wheelchair / scooter accessible.
Accessible restrooms are available.

We are dedicated to providing a positive and accessible learning environment for all. We do not require participants to provide documentation of disabilities or disclose any unnecessary personal information. However, we do want to help create an inclusive, accessible experience for all participants. We encourage you to share any information that would be helpful to make your Carpentries experience accessible. To request an accommodation for this workshop, please fill out the accommodation request form. If you have questions or need assistance with the accommodation form please email us.
Glosario is a multilingual glossary for computing and data science terms. The glossary helps learners attend workshops and use our lessons to make sense of computational and programming jargon written in English by offering it in their native language. Translating data science terms also provides a teaching tool for Carpentries Instructors to reduce barriers for their learners.
Sponsored by
Department of Computer Science • Calder Memorial Library • CIMAS
OVPRS • The Graduate School • IDSC • UM Libraries

Instructors

Erica Newcome
STEM and Interdisciplinary Research Librarian
University of Miami Libraries
Timothy Norris, PhD
Data Scientist
University of Miami Libraries and
Frost Institute for Data Science
and Computing (IDSC)

Helper

Thilani Samarakoon
Biomedical Data Librarian
University of Miami Libraries

Contact
Please email tnorris@miami.edu for more information.

2-Day Software Carpentry "R" Workshop at Medical Campus 10/10+11
2024-10-10 09:00 - 2024-10-11 16:30 | Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, 1120 NW 14th St, Miami, FL, 33136, United States
Join us for a free-2-day, in-person only Software Carpentry “R” Workshop at Medical Campus on Thursday and Friday, October 10+11, 2024, at the CTSI Research Training Center (Rooms 710 Q-R). Course Hours both days: 9:00AM – 4:30PM. (Course lasts two days—content is not repeated).
Software Carpentry aims to help researchers get their work done in less time and with less pain by teaching them basic research computing skills. This hands-on 2-day workshop will cover basic concepts and tools, including program design, version control, data management, and task automation. Participants will be encouraged to help one another and to apply what they have learned to their own research problems.
Register Now
Click here for the Syllabus, which includes: The Code of Conduct, Pre- and Post-Workshop Surveys, a detailed schedule, and the required (free) software with installation instructions.
Who
The course is aimed at graduate students and other researchers. You don’t need to have any previous knowledge of the tools that will be presented at the workshop.
Where
Rooms 710 R&Q, Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, 1120 NW 14th St., Miami, FL 33136. Get directions with OpenStreetMap or Google Maps.
When
Oct 10-11, 2024; 9:00 am – 4:30 pm EST Add to your Google Calendar.
Requirements
Participants must bring a laptop with a Mac, Linux, or Windows operating system (not a tablet, Chromebook, etc.) that they have administrative privileges on. They should have a few specific software packages installed (listed below).
Accessibility
We are committed to making this workshop accessible to everybody. The workshop organizers have checked that:

The room is wheelchair / scooter accessible.
Accessible restrooms are available.

We are dedicated to providing a positive and accessible learning environment for all. We do not require participants to provide documentation of disabilities or disclose any unnecessary personal information. However, we do want to help create an inclusive, accessible experience for all participants. We encourage you to share any information that would be helpful to make your Carpentries experience accessible. To request an accommodation for this workshop, please fill out the accommodation request form. If you have questions or need assistance with the accommodation form please email us.
Glosario is a multilingual glossary for computing and data science terms. The glossary helps learners attend workshops and use our lessons to make sense of computational and programming jargon written in English by offering it in their native language. Translating data science terms also provides a teaching tool for Carpentries Instructors to reduce barriers for their learners.

Instructors

Emory Neer
Research Support Specialist
University of Miami
Miller School of Medicine
Cameron Riopelle, PhD
Director of Research Data & Open Scholarship
University of Miami Libraries
Thilani Samarakoon
Biomedical Data Librarian
University of Miami Libraries

Helpers

Charles Brown-Roberts
Applications Software Developer
University of Miami Libraries
Michele Mayne
PhD Sociology Major
Medical Sociology and
Community Health & Well-Being
Erica Newcome
STEM and Interdisciplinary Research Librarian
University of Miami Libraries

Timothy Norris, PhD
Data Scientist
University of Miami Libraries and
Frost Institute for Data Science
and Computing (IDSC)

Contact
Please email tnorris@miami.edu for more information.

IDSC Grants Program Call for Proposals INFO SESSION Thursday 9/19 4PM via ZOOM
2024-09-19 16:00 - 16:30 | Zoom (online)
An INFO SESSION for your questions on the IDSC “Expanding the Use of Collaborative Data Science at UM” Grants Program CALL FOR PROPOSALS will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 4:00 PM (:30 minutes) via ZOOM.
Please Register to receive the ZOOM link
This program is designed to increase the use of data science to foster breakthroughs in disciplinary pursuits making the research team more competitive for external funding. Applications are required to include at least one data scientist from the Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC) and one researcher from a specific discipline. Typically, the disciplinary researcher initiates and leads the project. The IDSC data scientist acts as a high-level consultant to ensure the proposal has enough data science.
The awards include $20K in discretionary funds[1] and 1M Service Units (SUs) to be used for high performance computing (HPC). It is anticipated that five awards will be made. Any topic and issue involving data science are welcome. Pre-submission inquiries are encouraged.
For the 2024-2025 academic year, IDSC seeks proposals that address issues in:

Social and Behavioral Sciences
The Humanities

Other topics and issues are also welcome. Pre-submissions are encouraged.
In terms of this grant opportunity, data science is defined as utilizing state-of-the-art approaches such as Machine Learning (ML) or Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enable scientific discovery that is data driven. Simply, proposing to analyze large data sets with traditional techniques (e.g., linear regression) is not responsive to this opportunity. Proposals that use ML/AI to develop new understanding are strongly encouraged.
The application process includes two steps:
Step 1: The disciplinary researcher provides a one-page letter of intent to IDSC outlining the discipline-specific research and where data science fits in. Based on the letter of intent, the IDSC review team will identify an IDSC data scientist for collaboration, if the research team has not already identified a IDSC partner. Apply Now!
Step 2: Upon invitation to advance to Step 2, the research team (with assistance from the IDSC data scientist) will need to prepare 3 documents:
1) A two-page proposal that outlines the research and the data science plan. The proposal should also include a short discussion of potential external funding mechanisms that the proposed work can use to enhance the competitive position of the research team. The application should include:
2) an abbreviated one-page biosketch, and
3) a budget with justification using the linked templates included with this announcement.
Eligibility
This funding opportunity is open to UM Faculty with an active IDSC membership. For more information on IDSC memberships and to apply, visit https://idsc.miami.edu/membership/.
Reporting
The research team is required to submit an interim report midway through the performance period. The one-page report should include a brief description of the project’s progress and an overview of the financial situation. Upon project completion, the research team will submit a one-page final report detailing any accomplishments attributed to the work of this project [publications, proposal submission(s) for extramural funding, data sets generated, etc.] and give an oral presentation describing the research and results as part of IDSC’s seminar series. Scheduling of the oral presentation will be coordinated by IDSC’s Engagement Office.
Review Process
Applications will be reviewed by an evaluation committee to determine feasibility, relevance to IDSC programs, and in terms of how the proposed research will put the team in a more competitive position for external funding.

Important Information and Deadlines

Have questions? Attend an INFO session led by Azizi Seixas: Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 4:00 PM (:30 minutes) via Zoom. Please REGISTER.
Step 1 – Letters of Intent: Due by 5:00 PM Friday, September 27, 2024 | Step 1 Form
Invitation to submit full proposal in Step. 2 with identification of an IDSC data scientist partner (if applicable): October 14, 2024
Step 2 – Two-page proposal: Due by 5:00 PM on: Friday, November 22,2024
Notice of Award: On or before: December 18, 2024
Project performance period: January 1 – December 31, 2025
Interim Report Due: June 30, 2025
Service Units (SU) expire: January 31, 2026
Final Report Due: February 28, 2026
Oral Presentation of Results Due in Spring or Fall 2026

[1] Discretionary funds can be used for salary, travel, and other research-related expenditures as outlined in the proposal budget. Equipment purchases are not allowed.

IDSC Grants Program Call for Proposals INFO SESSION 9/9, 4PM
2024-09-09 16:00 - 16:30 | Zoom (online)
An INFO SESSION for your questions on the IDSC “Expanding the Use of Collaborative Data Science at UM” Grants Program CALL FOR PROPOSALS will be held on Monday, September 9, 2024, at 4:00 PM (:30 minutes) via Zoom. The submission deadline is Friday, September 27, 2024 by 5:00 PM.
Register Now
This program is designed to increase the use of data science to foster breakthroughs in disciplinary pursuits making the research team more competitive for external funding.Applications are required to include at least one data scientist from the Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC) and one researcher from a specific discipline. Typically, the disciplinary researcher initiates and leads the project. The IDSC data scientist acts as a high-level consultant to ensure the proposal has enough data science.
The awards include $20K in discretionary funds[1] and 1M Service Units (SUs) to be used for high performance computing (HPC). It is anticipated that five awards will be made. Any topic and issue involving data science are welcome. Pre-submission inquiries are encouraged.
For the 2024-2025 academic year, IDSC seeks proposals that address issues in:

Social and Behavioral Sciences
The Humanities

Other topics and issues are also welcome. Pre-submissions are encouraged.
In terms of this grant opportunity, data science is defined as utilizing state-of-the-art approaches such as Machine Learning (ML) or Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enable scientific discovery that is data driven. Simply, proposing to analyze large data sets with traditional techniques (e.g., linear regression) is not responsive to this opportunity. Proposals that use ML/AI to develop new understanding are strongly encouraged.
The application process includes two steps:
Step 1: The disciplinary researcher provides a one-page letter of intent to IDSC outlining the discipline-specific research and where data science fits in. Based on the letter of intent, the IDSC review team will identify an IDSC data scientist for collaboration, if the research team has not already identified a IDSC partner. Apply Now!
Step 2: Upon invitation to advance to Step 2, the research team (with assistance from the IDSC data scientist) will need to prepare 3 documents:
1) A two-page proposal that outlines the research and the data science plan. The proposal should also include a short discussion of potential external funding mechanisms that the proposed work can use to enhance the competitive position of the research team. The application should include:
2) an abbreviated one-page biosketch, and
3) a budget with justification using the linked templates included with this announcement.
Eligibility
This funding opportunity is open to UM Faculty with an active IDSC membership. For more information on IDSC memberships and to apply, visit https://idsc.miami.edu/membership/.
Reporting
The research team is required to submit an interim report midway through the performance period. The one-page report should include a brief description of the project’s progress and an overview of the financial situation. Upon project completion, the research team will submit a one-page final report detailing any accomplishments attributed to the work of this project [publications, proposal submission(s) for extramural funding, data sets generated, etc.] and give an oral presentation describing the research and results as part of IDSC’s seminar series. Scheduling of the oral presentation will be coordinated by IDSC’s Engagement Office.
Review Process
Applications will be reviewed by an evaluation committee to determine feasibility, relevance to IDSC programs, and in terms of how the proposed research will put the team in a more competitive position for external funding.

Important Information and Deadlines

Have questions? Attend an INFO session led by Ben Kirtman: Monday, September 9, 2024, at 4:00 PM (:30 minutes) via Zoom. Please REGISTER.
Step 1 – Letters of Intent: Due by 5:00 PM Friday, September 27, 2024 | Step 1 Form
Invitation to submit full proposal in Step. 2 with identification of an IDSC data scientist partner (if applicable): October 14, 2024
Step 2 – Two-page proposal: Due by 5:00 PM on: Friday, November 22,2024
Notice of Award: On or before: December 18, 2024
Project performance period: January 1 – December 31, 2025
Interim Report Due: June 30, 2025
Service Units (SU) expire: January 31, 2026
Final Report Due: February 28, 2026
Oral Presentation of Results Due in Spring or Fall 2026

[1] Discretionary funds can be used for salary, travel, and other research-related expenditures as outlined in the proposal budget. Equipment purchases are not allowed.

2023-2024 IDSC Fellows Capstone Event 4/30
2024-04-30 15:00 - 17:00 | Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
The four outstanding students selected as the 2023-2024 IDSC Fellows presented their proposed projects at a launch symposium held at the Richter Library on November 28. This was followed by presentations from the inaugural cohort of the Provost’s Fellowship in Interdisciplinary Computing awardees.If you missed it, watch on our YouTube Channel, and join us to hear the IDSC Fellows’ progress at the capstone event.
Tuesday 4/30/2024 | 3:00-5:00 PM, Richter Library 3rd Floor Conference Room #343
Register Now
Introducing the 2023-2024 IDSC Fellows:

Madeleine Dawson
3rd year PhD in Ocean Sciences
PROJECT TITLE: Island Wake Segmentation and Characterization from Synthetic Aperture Radar Imagery: A Deep Learning Approach
MENTORS:
David R. Chapman, PhD | Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science, College of Arts and Sciences | Knight Foundation Junior Chair of Data Science and AI | IDSC Core Faculty Member
Hans Graber, ScD | Professor, Department of Ocean Sciences, Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science
Executive Director, Center for Southeastern Tropical Advanced Remote Sensing (CSTARS)
Madeleine is currently working with Dr. Hans Graber at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science. She received her Bachelor of Science in Biological Engineering from the University of Missouri-Columbia before beginning her Ph.D. at the University of Miami. Her current research is focused on the characterization of island wakes through spaceborne Synthetic Aperture Radar datasets. As an IDSC Fellow, the utilization of deep learning techniques will aid in classifying highly dynamic and turbulent features of the island wakes to create accurate parameterizations for future predictions.

Anna Golikova
Senior, majoring in Biology
PROJECT TITLE: Identification of bacterial viruses in two reef-building corals, Pseudodiploria strigosa and Montastraea cavernosa
MENTORS:
Ravi Vadapalli, PhD | Director, Advanced Computing, IDSC
Cynthia Silveira, PhD | Assistant Professor, Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences | silveiralab.com
Anna is majoring in Biology with minors in Chemistry, Computer Science, and Psychology.
After learning about viral diversity in the “Biology of Viruses” course offered at the University of Miami, Anna joined the Silveira Lab to delve deeper into marine viral ecology. She started working on the project that aimed to isolate and identify seawater viruses that infect coral-associated bacteria and that may be involved in coral diseases. As an IDSC Fellow, she hopes to conduct bioinformatics analysis, including genome annotations and comparative genomics study, of her isolated bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria) and their hosts in order to explore how bacterial viruses could contribute to the emergence of pathogens in coral reefs.

Tianhao Liu
3rd year PhD in Biostatistics
PROJECT TITLE: Spectral Graph Theory Methods Using Eigenpairs With Small Eigenvalues
MENTORS:
Kamal Premartne, PhD | Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering
Daniel Andrés Díaz-Pachón, PhD | Research Assistant Professor, Biostatistics Division, Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine
Tianhao is working under the supervision of Dr. Daniel Díaz at the Division of Biostatistics, University of Miami. Tianhao received his M.Sc. in Biostatistics in 2020 from UM. His research centers around pattern recognition and clustering using advanced statistical and machine learning methods. As an IDSC Fellow, he hopes to explore how to make use of the eigenvectors with the smallest eigenvalues in random graph models.

Christian Ramsoomair
3rd year MD/PhD in Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP)
PROJECT TITLE: Locus-Specific Characterization of Transposable Elements in Glioblastoma
MENTORS:
Ravi Vadapalli, PhD | Director, Advanced Computing, IDSC
Ashish H. Shah, MD | Department of Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine
Christian is in his first year of graduate studies working under the mentorship of Drs. Danny Reinberg and Ashish Shah in the Sheila and David Fuente Graduate Program in Cancer Biology. He received his Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Chemistry (concentration in Biochemistry) from College of the Holy Cross. During the IDSC Fellows program, he is seeking to characterize the role of retroelements in Glioblastoma.

“AI Applications for Obstetrics” UHealth Lecture by Dr. Yelena Yesha 4/25
2024-04-25 07:00 - 08:00 | Zoom (online)
IDSC Innovation Director, Director of IDSC AI and Machine Learning, and Knight Foundation Endowed Chair of Data Science and AI, Dr. Yelena Yesha will speak at an “Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences” (AMA PRA Category 1 credit) lecture series hosted by UHealth on Thursday, April 25, 2024 from 7:00-7:00 AM EST via ZOOM.
Talk Title
“Empowering the Next Wave of Discovery: Generative AI’s Transformative Impact on Science + Innovation | AI Applications for Obstetrics”

Lecture Objectives

Provide a solid foundation on what Generative AI is, how it operates, and specifically, what ChatGPT brings to the table.
Trace the development journey of ChatGPT, emphasizing the technological advancements and extended capabilities.
Offer a deeper look into the mechanics behind ChatGPT, including the transformer architecture, reinforcement learning, and how it is trained and fine-tuned.
Highlight how Generative AI, particularly ChatGPT, is being utilized across different sectors, with a special focus on higher education, medicine, and specifically, obstetrics and gynecology.

ZOOM Link: https://miami.zoom.us/j/92710226622?pwd=[REDACTED] Frdz09
Meeting ID: 927 1022 6622 | Passcode: [REDACTED]
About the Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences Ground Rounds
The Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science Grand Rounds is a live virtual conference series that provides clinicians with the most recent developments in all specialized areas, including: Maternal Fetal Medicine, Gynecologic Oncology, Morbidity & Mortality, Family Planning, and Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery.
TARGET AUDIENCE: Obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive science physicians.
ACCREDITATION: The University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
CREDIT DESIGNATION:
The University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine designates this live activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit . Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Disclosures
FACULTY | Dr. Yesha has indicated that she has no relevant financial relationships with commercial interests.
PLANNING COMMITTEE | Drs. Attia, Carugno, Bishop, Sinno, Jeudin, Paidas, Moscoso, Simms-Cendan, and Sfakianaki have indicated that they have no relevant financial relationships with commercial interests. All the relevant financial relationships for these individuals have been mitigated.

For additional information please contact Tameka Collins at tcollins@med.miami.edu or visit www.cme.med.miami.edu.
Powered by the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine’s ground-breaking research and medical education.

Computing Day 4/23
2024-04-23 10:00 - 17:00 | Frost Institute for Chemistry and Molecular Science, 1201 Memorial Drive, Great Room 1st Floor, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, United States
UM faculty, graduate and undergraduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and staff will showcase their research posters and /or demos at the second annual Computing Day to be held at the Frost Institute for Chemistry and Molecular Science building on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

Computing Day convenes faculty and student scholars, corporate and government professionals, and other audiences engaged in computing to design the future and foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. This event is free and open to the public. We look forward to recognizing the vast array of research and scholarship in computing at the University of Miami.
Register Now (free)
Tuesday April 23, 2024 | 10:00 AM-5:00 PM ET
LOCATION
Frost Institute for Chemistry and Molecular Science Building, 1201 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146 | Great Hall and Seminar Room (Map and Directions)
PARKING
Complimentary parking is available in the red zone lot 109A (see orange arrow) on April 23, during the hours of 6:00am – 6:00pm, enter your license plate number, then the registration code 9560 using this link: https://www.offstreet.io/location/9X0XY0VC. (For navigation purposes, enter 1305 Campo Sano Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33146, to find the entrance at Wilder Drive.)

AGENDA
10:00 AM Registration Opens
11:00 AM-12:00 PM Keynote Speaker
12:00-2:00 PM Lunch + Networking
2:00-3:00 PM Panel Discussion
3:00-5:00 PM Poster + Demo Review and Networking Happy Hour

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Fernando Vasconez
Senior Director Business Development – Games + Strategy | SAMSUNG Electronics
Fernando has over 15 years of experience in the gaming industry, working with leading platforms, publishers, developers, and technology providers. His core competencies are new business development, product marketing, and strategy. He leads a team of business development managers and analysts who are responsible for identifying, negotiating, and executing strategic partnerships and initiatives with gaming partners.
Fernando leverages Samsung’s technology leadership and global reach to create value for their customers, partners, and stakeholders. He is passionate about exploring and advancing emerging trends and opportunities in the gaming industry, such as cloud gaming, blockchain, AI and 5G. His goal is to position partners as global leaders and game-changers in the gaming industry, and to contribute to their vision of inspiring the world through games and entertainment.

MODERATOR

Kim Grinfeder, MPS
Professor + Chair | University of Miami School of Communication, Department of Interactive Media
Director | University of Miami Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing, Creative Technologies
Director, XR Initiative | UMverse
Kim is a multidisciplinary media producer and an accomplished artist, designer, and creator who uses emergent technologies to practice new ways to communicate social and environmental issues. At the UM School of Communication, he is Chair of the Department of Interactive Media and Director of the UMverse, where he is developing a coordinated strategy to expand leadership in spatial computing. their customers, partners, and stakeholders. He is passionate about exploring and advancing emerging trends and opportunities in the gaming industry, such as cloud gaming, blockchain, AI and 5G. His goal is to position partners as global leaders and game-changers in the gaming industry, and to contribute to their vision of inspiring the world through games and entertainment.

PANELISTS

Soyeon Ahn, PhD
Professor and Vice Dean | University of Miami School of Education and Human Development
Soyeon received her Ph.D. in Measurement and Quantitative Methods in the Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology and Special Education at Michigan State University in 2008. She joined the EPS faculty in August, 2008. Soyeon’s current research focuses on the application of the existing data analytic techniques in resolving the complicated data issues in meta-analysis (research synthesis). Her other areas of interest include hierarchical linear modeling (HLM), structural equation modeling (SEM), and longitudinal data analysis for educational and psychological research

Fabrice Manns, PhD
Professor and Chair | University of Miami College of Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering
Fabrice serves as chair and professor of the University of Miami College of Engineering Department of Biomedical Engineering. He holds a secondary appointment in the Department of Ophthalmology where his research laboratory is located. As Co-Director of Bascom Palmer Eye Institute’s Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, his research activities include the development of optical and laser instrumentation for treating and diagnosing eye diseases, and studies on the optics of the eye and vision correction, including accommodation and presbyopia, myopia, and intraocular lenses for cataract surgery.

Ramin Moghaddass, PhD
Associate Professor | University of Miami College of Engineering, Department of Industrial Engineering
Director | Data Analytics Lab & DOE Industrial Assessment Center

Ramin is an associate professor in the College of Engineering’s Department of Industrial Engineering where he studies complex, sensor-driven engineered systems, and is developing a new generation of flexible and large-scale models for real-time system health monitoring inspired by dynamic structures and networks. His research is applicable in a number of engineering systems, including wind turbines, power systems and other sensor- intensive engineering systems.

Rebecca Bulotsky Shearer, PhD
Professor | University of Miami College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Psychology
Principal Investigator and Faculty Advisor | Early Childhood Social Emotional Readiness Lab (SERL)
Rebecca is a child clinical and school psychologist who has worked both as a practitioner and researcher with very young children and families living in impoverished urban areas for the past 15 years. Her research is guided by a “whole child” developmental-ecological systems perspective that is child-centered, and which considers both proximal and broader system-level influences on children’s development over time.

Poster/Demo Submission NOW CLOSED
Poster Dimensions: 36″ height x 48″ width
Poster Printing: The event will cover the cost of posters printed in house through the Richter Library Creative Studio. Posters should be submitted one week in advance to: creativestudio@miami.edu. Download and complete a Print Request Form. Under Department & Course, please enter “Computing Day 2024”.
How to design an academic poster: Click here.
The submission deadline was April 12, 2024. If you have any questions and/or require additional information concerning posters or demos, please email idsc@miami.edu. The cost of posters printed through the Richter Library Creative Studio will be covered by the event.
Before you submit your application, please make sure that you have the following ready:

Presentation title
350-word (maximum) abstract (12-point Times New Roman font, single-spaced)
Author and coauthor names and affiliations

CALL FOR POSTERS + DEMOS: Computing Day 4/23
2024-04-23 10:00 - 17:00 | Lakeside Village, 1280 Stanford Drive, Coral Gables, 33146, United States
UM faculty, graduate and undergraduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and staff are invited to submit posters and /or demos for presentation at the second annual Computing Day to be held at the Frost Institute for Chemistry and Molecular Science building on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

Register Now (free)
Computing Day convenes faculty and student scholars, corporate and government professionals, and other audiences engaged in computing to design the future and foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. This event is free and open to the public.
Tuesday April 23, 2024 | 10:00 AM-5:00 PM ET
Poster/Demo Submission
Please click here to submit a presentation. The submission deadline is April 12, 2024. If you have any questions and/or require additional information concerning posters or demos, please email idsc@miami.edu. The cost of posters printed through the Richter Library Creative Studio will be covered by the event. See submission form for more details.
Before you submit your application, please make sure that you have the following ready:

Presentation title
350-word (maximum) abstract (12-point Times New Roman font, single-spaced)
Author and coauthor names and affiliations

We look forward to your participation, and to recognizing the vast array of research and scholarship in computing at the University of Miami.
LOCATION
University of Miami Coral Gables campus
Frost Institute for Chemistry and Molecular Science building
1201 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146
AGENDA
10:00 AM Registration Opens
11:00 AM-12:00 PM Keynote Speaker
12:00-2:00 PM Lunch + Networking
2:00-3:00 PM Panel Discussion
3:00-5:00 PM Poster + Demo Review and Networking Happy Hour

Smart Cities MIAMI 2024 Conference 4/11+12
2024-04-11 00:00 - 2024-04-12 23:59 | Lakeside Village, 1280 Stanford Drive, Coral Gables, 33146, United States
The University of Miami School of Architecture and Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing presented the 8th annual Smart Cities Miami Conference on Thursday and Friday, April 11+12, 2024, at the University of Miami Coral Gables campus Lakeside Village Expo Center.
The program is now online!

To aid in the design and development of more sustainable, livable, and resilient cities, the University of Miami brings cutting-edge research in urban planning, architecture, and engineering in alignment with computational resources and analytical methods. The Annual Smart Cities Miami Conference is an extension of these efforts, providing a forum for leaders in academia, industry, and government to closely examine evolving theories and practices in the Smart City field. The topics considered vary in scope and nature within a general theme that is particularly relevant for each year.
Smart Cities Miami Day 1 considered the role of artificial intelligence in the design and management of smart cities, providing an opportunity to explore the impact of AI in smart city practices and how individuals, societies, and cultures adopt and adapt to emerging AI-driven technology in smart cities. Day 2, led by the Miami Think Tank (a new platform for discussions on current challenges in contemporary cities and global urbanization processes), focused on the city of the future and unleashing the power of AI in urban development.

University of Miami Coral Gables campus
LAKESIDE VILLAGE
Day 1 Expo Center | Day 2 Pavilion 1000
1280 Stanford Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146

PRESENTING SPONSORS
Double C (by Conconcreto) and Broadway Malyan

►Day 1 | April 11 • Expo Center
Day 1 included exhibits in the Lakeside Village Expo Center. The Day 1 theme provided opportunities to explore questions such as:
• How do staggering recent developments in AI impact smart city practices?
• How do individuals, societies, and cultures adopt and adapt to emerging AI-driven technology in smart cities?
• How do we transition from sustaining to disruptive practices fueled by AI?
• Do cities become more resilient when they deploy AI?
Register Now ($50 pp) | Apply to Exhibit
General Admission $50.00 per person—Both Days included. This event was free to University of Miami Faculty, Staff, and Students (with PROMO CODE available from idsc@miami.edu).
Day 1 Agenda
12:00-1:00 Registration + Light Lunch
1:00 Conference Opens + Welcome Address | Dean Rodolphe el-Khoury
1:10 Opening Keynote | Ali Malkawi, Harvard University
1:40 Panel I | “Smarter Cities?”
2:25 Break + Exhibits (20 min)
2:45 Panel 2 | “Rethinking Infrastructure”
3:30 Break + Exhibits (20 min)
3:50 Panel 3 | “Transforming the Profession”
4:35 Closing Keynote | Neil Leach, Florida International University
5:00 Closing Remarks | Dean Rodolphe el-Khoury
followed by Networking Reception + Exhibits
7:00 Day 1 Ends

COMPLIMENTARY PARKING Day 1
Complimentary parking for attendees was available in the Pavia and/or Levante Garages on 4/11/2024, during the hours of 11:00am – 9:00pm.

DAY ONE

Artificial Intelligence and its Role in the Design and Management of Smart Cities
12:00-1:00 PM • Registration + Exhibits Open | Light Lunch
1:00 PM • Conference Opens
Welcome Remarks | Dr. Guillermo Prado, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost

1:10-1:40 PM • OPENING KEYNOTE

Ali Malkawi, PhD
Director of the Doctor of Design Studies Program and Professor of Architectural Technology | Harvard Graduate School of Design
Founding Director | Harvard Center for Green Buildings and Cities (CGBC)
TALK TITLE: “Connecting buildings to nature: The role of big data, AI and automation”
Ali Malkawi is Professor of Architectural Technology, Director of the Doctor of Design Studies Program, and Founding Director of the Harvard Center for Green Buildings and Cities at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. He has served as a consultant on several projects, including airport designs, super towers, industrial factories, and cities. His research focuses in the areas of computational simulation, building performance evaluation, and design decision support. Previously, he taught at the Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Michigan, and the University of Pennsylvania, where he was a Professor of Architecture and Chairman of the Graduate Group in Architecture.
Malkawi is lead author or co-author of more than 130 scientific papers and co-editor of three books. In 2017, he was honored with the Jordan Star of Science by His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein of Jordan. In 2013, Malkawi received an honorary Master of Arts degree from Harvard University. He earned his Ph.D. from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

1:40-2:25 PM • PANEL 1 “Smarter Cities?”

This panel explores how AI is reframing the discussion and transforming smart cities practices. From harnessing AI’s potential in data analytics to deliver on the promises of enhanced efficiency and sustainability, to navigating the complex legal and ethical implications inherent in AI-driven solutions, the conversation will illuminate the opportunities and challenges at the intersection of technology and urban planning.

MODERATOR

Nicholas Tsinoremas, PhD
Nick is Vice Provost for Research Computing and Data, and the founding director of the Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC) at the University of Miami. Before joining UM, he served as Head of Informatics and Cheminformatics at The Scripps Research Institute, Florida. In his previous role as Director of Computational Genomics and Genomic Discovery at Rosetta/Merck, he directed the project that combined data science and computational approaches with gene expression profiling, high-throughput screening, and genetics to discover, prioritize, and define new drug targets and novel therapeutics. Prior to Merck, as Vice President of Genomics at DoubleTwist Inc., he led a team that developed the first annotation of the Human Genome.

PANELISTS

Kenneth W. Goodman, PhD , FACMI, FACE
Ken is founder and director of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Institute for Bioethics and Health Policy, and UM’s Ethics Programs. The Institute has been designated a W.H.O. Collaborating Center in Ethics and Global Health Policy, one of 14 in the world and the only one in the U.S. He is a Fellow of the American College of Medical Informatics (FACMI), the American College of Epidemiology (FACE), and The Hastings Center. Ken also directs the Florida Bioethics Network and chairs the UHealth/UM Hospital Ethics Committee and the Adult Ethics Committee for Jackson Memorial Health System.

Kim Grinfeder, MPS
Kim is a multidisciplinary media producer and an accomplished artist, designer, and creator who uses emergent technologies to practice new ways to communicate social and environmental issues. At the UM School of Communication, he is Chair of the Department of Interactive Media and Director of the UMverse, where he is developing a coordinated strategy to expand leadership in spatial computing.

Sarbeswar Praharaj, PhD
Sarbeswar has over 10 years of progressive experience in academia in various capacities within universities in the USA, India, and Australia. His passion and experience is in building university-to-university and university-to-community partnerships for research collaborations and student engagement. He has a Master of Urban Planning (CEPT University), Master of Science in Geography (University of Calcutta), and a PhD with an emphasis on Smart Cities from the University of New South Wales.

Shermeen Yousif, PhD
Shermeen Yousif is an assistant professor and the founder of the Environmental Design and Natural Materials lab at the School of Architecture at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Recently, her lab’s focus has been on using environmental design methods, AI strategies and tools, and robotic fabrication to investigate the design and extrusion of biomaterial-based design prototypes.

2:25-2:45 PM • BREAK + EXHIBITS
2:45-3:30 PM • PANEL 2 “Rethinking Infrastructure”

The panel discussion bridges between industry leaders in large infrastructure projects and key stakeholders in city governance and public initiative to address emerging issues and relevant questions. How is AI transforming the planning and execution of large-scale infrastructural projects? Are there new modalities and opportunities for collaboration between public and private sectors. How is social equity addressed within this evolving technological landscape? Will AI driven tools enable us to reimagine sustainability and resilience in the face of climate change and other pressing challenges.

MODERATOR

Ana Peralta Chammas
As the Director of Innovation for Miami-Dade County, Ana’s eye for innovation, strategic vision, and multidisciplinary experience has helped advance IT strategy and the organizational transformation that drives the customer experience. She has the vision for what a future-ready government needs to create community impact. Her experience includes directing the functions and programs related to the County’s information channels (miamidade.gov, 311 Answer Center, and Miami-Dade Television) as well as the development of civic and digital engagement strategies. Ana is working to create intersections across verticals in the industry partnering with academic institutions to build the foundational learning and experiential opportunities to expand our local talent pipelines.

PANELISTS

Minghui Cheng, PhD
Minghui is an assistant professor jointly appointed by the Department of Civil & Architectural Engineering and School of Architecture at the University of Miami, with an affiliation with Climate Resilience Academy. His research focuses on the digital twin-enabled smart city and sustainability-informed life-cycle management of structures and infrastructure systems with an emphasis on surrogate modeling, optimization, and machine learning.

Justin Gammage, PhD, PEng
Justin serves as the Director of Partnerships at the Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing, University of Miami. Formerly, he was the Strategic Industry Advisor at Ontario Tech University, leading technology deployments for the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network. His distinguished career includes roles as Chief Scientist at General Motors of Canada and Co-Founder of Illuminex AI, focusing on operational AI in complex environments.

Oumayma Moufid, Fulbright PhD Scholar
Oumayma is currently a Fulbright research scholar at the University of Miami conducting research in sustainable urban planning and resilience. Originally from Morocco, she obtained an Engineering Diploma from the School of Geomatic Sciences and Surveying Engineering – IAV Hassan II Institute. She is also pursuing her Doctoral studies in Hassania School of Public Works focusing on Digital Twin for smart and sustainable urban planning and infrastructure management. She also has a professional experience in the National Agency for Urban Regeneration and Rehabilitation of run-down buildings in Morocco working on the development of digital tools and frameworks to help decision-making.

Raimundo Rodulfo
As Director of Innovation and Technology and Chief Innovation Office for the City of Coral Gables Innovation & Technology Dept., Raimundo leads strategic planning, co-innovation, oversight and management of citywide IT operations, infrastructure, and smart city initiatives. He joined the City in 2004. Prior to that, he spent 10 years working for various Fortune 500 companies such as Bellsouth (AT&T), Siemens, and NCR in varying technical and managerial capacities. During this time, he also worked on engineering and technology projects with Motorola and Lucent Technologies (Alcatel) in Chicago and Agilent Technologies in Silicon Valley.

3:30-3:50 PM • BREAK + EXHIBITS
3:50-4:35 PM • PANEL 3 “Transforming the Profession”

The panel discussion gathers leaders from architecture, engineering, and construction firms to explore the profound impact of AI on their respective fields. From reshaping workflows to introducing innovative tools and methodologies, our panelists will delve into how AI is revolutionizing their operations. The panel will address pressing questions such as the possibilities of transforming the profession and the potential for empowering practitioners to work more efficiently and deliver impactful solutions.

MODERATOR

Rodolphe el-Khoury, PhD
Rodolphe el-Khoury is Dean of the University of Miami School of Architecture. Trained as both an historian and a designer, he divides his time between scholarship, research, and practice. He is the author of numerous books on architecture and urbanism, including See Through Ledoux; Architecture Theatre, and the Pursuit of Transparency; Monolithic Architecture; and Figures: Essays on Contemporary Architecture. el-Khoury leads RAD Lab, a research unit dedicated to embedded technology and robotics aiming at enhancing responsiveness and resilience in buildings and smart cities.
The work of his firm, Khoury Levit Fong (KLF), has won international awards. el-Khoury’s work has been featured in national and international media outlets that cut across disciplines ranging from WIRED Magazine to the Wall Street Journal to the Space Channel to BBC World. He has shared his work through teaching, visiting professorships and lectures at dozens of institutions in the U.S. and abroad.

PANELISTS

Jamie Chow, RA, LEED AP BD+C
Jamie is currently a Project Designer at Perkins&Will Miami, a LEED Accredited Professional and registered architect in the state of Florida. Originally from Singapore, she obtained a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Cornell University and has professional experience in New York city and Miami working in the commercial, institutional, and residential sectors. At Perkins&Will, Jamie has integrated AI tools into the design process and is an advocate for the advancement of human-centric design.

Lorena Knezevic, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP
Lorena is currently an Architect and LEED AP at Gensler Miami. She is also pursuing her Doctor of Design at Florida International University with a focus on AI in the architecture profession. Her thesis builds upon her Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Science degrees from the University of Miami, which focused on AR and VR. These studies led to multiple industry-based research grants, hackathons at Milan Design Week, and speaking engagements.

Johnny Maghzal, MBA
Johnny is Head of Growth at Togal.AI, helping customers get the most of their innovative takeoff software. An estimating expert, he has been working in the construction industry for nearly a decade. Before moving to the U.S., Johnny worked for the largest specialized engineer solutions firm in the Middle East. He received a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and master’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the American University of Beirut, in addition to an MBA from the Miami Herbert Business School.

Nicolás Pinzón Rodriguez
Nicolás is senior partner at L35 Architect and Managing Director for USA & Latam. Since joining the firm, he has led projects in Spain, France, Belgium, Turkey, Mexico, Colombia and, more recently, the American Region. He graduated in architecture from the School of Architecture of Barcelona with a specialization in building. He combines his professional career as an architect with that of a photographer. Since 2019, Nicolás has been based in Miami.

4:35-5:00 PM • CLOSING KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Neil Leach, PhD
Director, Doctor of Design Program| Florida International University (FIU)
Professor| European Graduate School
Gao Feng Professor| Tongji University
Adjunct Professor| University of Southern California
Visiting Professor| Harvard University Graduate School of Design
Neil Leach is an architect and professor from the UK. He currently directs the Doctor of Design program at Florida International University (FIU), and has also taught at the Architectural Association (School of Architecture, London), Harvard Graduate School of Design, Columbia GSAPP (Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation), Cornell University, IaaC (Institute for advanced architecture of Catalonia, Barcelona), and SCI-Arc (Southern California Institute of Architecture, Los Angeles).
He is the co-founder of DigitalFUTURES (digitialfutures.international), an online educational platform that operates in 10 languages; a former researcher for NASA, where he developed 3D printing technologies for the Moon and Mars; and a member of the Academia Europaea, Europe’s leading academy with over 50 Nobel laureates.
Neil has published over 40 books on architectural theory and digital design, translated into 8 different languages. He is currently working on AI, and is the author of the first book on architecture and AI, Architecture in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: An Introduction to AI for Architects (Bloomsbury, 2022).
neilleach.wordpress.com

5:00 PM • Closing Remarks | Dean Rodolphe el-Khoury
5:00-7:00 PM • Networking Reception + Exhibits
7:00 PM • Day 1 Ends

COMPLIMENTARY PARKING Day 2
Complimentary parking for attendees ws available in the Pavia and/or Levante Garages on 4/12/2024, during the hours of 7:00am – 3:00pm.
Location
University of Miami Coral Gables campus
LAKESIDE VILLAGE
Day 1 Expo Center | Day 2 Pavilion 1000
1280 Stanford Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146

DAY TWO

9:00 AM • Registration Open + Light Breakfast
10:00 AM • Day Two Began
10:00 AM-12:00 PM • “Miami Think Tank” PANEL: City of the Future: Unleashing the Power of AI in Urban Development

MODERATOR

The Honorable Vince C. Lago
Mayor, City of Coral Gables
The Honorable Vince Lago was elected Mayor of Coral Gables in April 2021 in a decisive victory—the youngest elected Mayor in the City’s history. Prior to his election, he served as City Commissioner for eight years, and held the post of Vice Mayor (2019-21). Throughout his career, Mayor Lago has dedicated his time to South Florida civic and philanthropic causes. A former member of the Coral Gables Planning and Zoning Board, he brings a reasonable and creative approach to land use remaining committed to preserving Coral Gables’ unique character and history while placing the interests of residents first.
During his tenures, Mayor Lago spearheaded numerous legislative initiatives and led the City’s sustainability efforts. Previously, he served on the Board of Directors of the Coral Gables Community Foundation where he worked to promote and enhance the quality of life for residents, and assisted in raising funds to help the elderly, youth, and disabled population in the community. A strong proponent of arts and culture, he served for more than 10 years on the board of Locust Projects, a nonprofit contemporary art organization that supports emerging and mid-career artists. He also served on the City of Miami’s Arts and Entertainment Council. Additionally, he served on the Board of Directors of the Coral Gables Museum.
Mayor Lago holds a Master of Science in Construction Management from Florida International University School of Engineering, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. As an advocate of advancing the region’s planning and transportation needs and enhancing energy conservation, in 2017 he was appointed to represent Coral Gables on the board of the Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization. Since 2019, he has served on the Junior League of Miami Community Advisory Board where he provides insight and expertise on important community advocacy projects. In 2021, Mayor Lago was elected Vice Chair of the Biscayne Bay Watershed Management Advisory Board, and was appointed by the City Commission as liaison to the Business Improvement District (BID).
Mayor Lago resides in Coral Gables with his wife Olga Mari Saizarbitoria, and their daughters Mirentxu and Catalin.

PANELISTS

Jorge Ponce Dawson
Practice Principal and Design Director + Head of Studio Madrid, Broadway Malyan, Spain
Jorge has been Director of the Broadway Malyan Madrid studio since 2002, from where he leads projects in Spain, Europe, North Africa and South America. With 35 years of professional experience, Jorge is the author of landmark projects in the retail industry, such as FAN Mallorca and Torre Sevilla in Spain, Terrazas de Mayo in Argentina or Mall of Sfax in Tunisia. He has lead the roll-out in Spain of large retail chains as Costco and Primark. Under his leadership, Broadway Malyan has continuous work with global European players such as Carrefour Property, Unibail Rodamco Westfield, Ikea, Eurofund, Merlin Properties, Frey, ECE or Klepierre, as well as Latin American leaders like Cencosud, Mall Plaza, Parque Arauco, Real Plaza or Mall Aventura.
Driven by his intellectual curiosity and his interest in contributing to the global debate on major social challenges such as the climate change or digital revolution, in 2018, Jorge launched the Broadway Malyan Think Tank as a space for reflection to identify new market trends and to explore ways to move towards more humane and sustainable cities, assuming proximity as the new transformational paradigm.

Olivia Ramos
CEO, Deepblocks (AI for development and acquisition)
Olivia Ramos, founder, and CEO of Deepblocks, has leveraged her expertise in real estate development, software design, and Big Data to lead a team in developing an innovative technology that offers a comprehensive and scalable view of cities, evaluates their development potential, and streamlines the process of identifying viable sites for new construction. This technology expedites the efficiency of site selection and feasibility analysis in real estate from months to minutes.
Ramos holds master’s degrees in Architecture from Columbia University and Real Estate Development from the University of Miami. Her significant achievements include designing groundbreaking Big Data navigation software for the Department of Defense’s DARPA Innovation House. This work and her recognition by Singularity University’s GSP and accelerator program were instrumental in founding Deepblocks.

﻿

Terry Shaw, PE
Senior Practice Builder + Associate | Kimley Horn
Terry boasts 30+ years of experience in Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and smart communities, including managing FDOT’s $700M10-year ITS program, overseeing the nation’s first operational public transit autonomous vehicle fleet deployment, and leading Smart Region Master Plans for various councils. His work on the Smart St. Augustine project secured a RAISE Grant from the US DOT, aiming to transform the city into the nation’s smartest. With a track record of delivering over 100 successful projects, six of which received national or regional awards, Shaw’s expertise extends to international, national, and regional conferences, as well as publications for esteemed organizations such as the National Academies of Sciences/Transportation Research Board, AASHTO, AMPO, and more.

12:00 PM • Transition to new location for launch event
12:30 PM • UM-COBOD Collaboration Launch Event
The University of Miami School of Architecture and COBOD International held the official launch of a new collaboration to research and explore construction scale 3D printing. The collaboration has seen the creation of a concrete 3D printing hub which includes a large format COBOD BOD 2 construction printer, capable of printing a small single-family home.
Conference attendees were invited to an opening ceremony immediately following Smart Cities MIAMI Day 2 that discussed the collaboration and potential opportunities related to concrete 3D printing in Miami and internationally, as well as showcased some recent 3D printed structures by UM students and faculty. (Light Refreshments)

Location of UM-COBOD Collaboration Launch Event
University of Miami Coral Gables campus
Behind the STUDIO ARTS BUILDING
1535 Levante Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33146

2-Day Free Software Carpentry “R” Workshop at Medical Campus 3/28+29
2024-03-28 09:00 - 2024-03-29 16:30 | Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, 1120 NW 14th St, Miami, FL, 33136, United States
Software Carpentry helps researchers get their work done in less time and with less pain by teaching them fundamental research computing skills. This hands-on “R” workshop will cover basic concepts and tools, including program design, version control, data management, and task automation. The course is aimed at graduate students and other researchers. You don’t need to have any previous knowledge of the tools that will be presented. Participants will be encouraged to help one another and to apply what they have learned to their own research problems.
Thursday + Friday 3/28+29/2024 | 9:00-4:30 Course Hours Both Days
Register Now | Syllabus
LOCATION
Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute
Don Soffer Clinical Research Center (formerly Clinical Research Building or “CRB”)
1120 NW 14th Street, Rooms 710 R+Q
Miami, FL 33136
PARKING
You may park in the building’s parking garage. Parking spaces are available throughout the garage at a rate of $1.00 per hour, with a max charge of $8.00/per day. Get directions with OpenStreetMap or Google Maps.
REQUIREMENTS
Participants must bring a laptop with a Mac, Linux, or Windows operating system (not a tablet, Chromebook, etc.) that they have administrative privileges on. They should have a few specific software packages installed (listed on the syllabus).
INSTRUCTORS

Cameron Riopelle
Director of Research Data
& Open Scholarship
University of Miami Libraries
Erica Newcome
STEM and Interdisciplinary
Research Librarian
University of Miami Libraries
Francisco Cardozo Macias
Student
University of Miami

HELPERS

Charles Brown-Roberts
Applications Software Developer
University of Miami Libraries
Catalina Canizares-Escobar
Research Coordinator
Florida International University
Michele Mayne
PhD Sociology Major
Medical Sociology and
Community Health & Well-Being

Timothy Norris
Data Scientist
University of Miami Libraries and
Frost Institute for Data Science
and Computing (IDSC)

ACCESSIBILITY
We are committed to making this workshop accessible to everybody. For workshops at a physical location, the workshop organizers have checked that:

The room is wheelchair / scooter accessible.
Accessible restrooms are available.

Materials will be provided in advance of the workshop and large-print handouts are available if needed by notifying the organizers in advance. If we can help making learning easier for you (e.g. sign-language interpreters, lactation facilities) please get in touch (using contact details below) and we will attempt to provide them.

DATA ETHICS

As a part of this 2-day workshop, Dr. Ken Goodman will join us to present “Special Program in Ethics for Scientific Writing and Coding” on 3/29.
Kenneth W. Goodman, PhD, FACMI, FACE
Director, IDSC Data Ethics + Society
Director, Institute for Bioethics and Health Policy
Director, UM Ethics Programs

SPONSORED BY
Louis Calder Memorial Library | Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Studies (CIMAS) | Department of Computer Science | Graduate School | IDSC | Office of the Vice Provost for Research and Scholarship

IDSC Advanced Computing User TRAINING SESSION 3/21
2024-03-21 13:30 - 15:00 | Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
The University of Miami Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC) is a training session for Advanced Computing Users, or those interested in learning how to use the University’s Advanced Computing capabilities, as well as how to utilize the services IDSC provides. The session is an hour long, followed by :30 min. for Q&A.
Join us in person (or via ZOOM) on Thursday, March 21, 2024, from 1:30-3:00 PM in the Richter Library 3rd Floor Conference Room (#343). Zoom link will be emailed upon completion of registration.
Register Now (free)
The Session will cover:
Introduction to IDSC

Capabilities
Expertise
Services
Opportunities

Intro. to Advanced Computing Systems and Services

Connecting to the Cluster
Transferring Data
Navigating the Filesystem
Storage (Home vs Scratch)
Software (Environment/Modules)
Processing Jobs (LSF)
Computing (CPU, GPU)

Accessing/Using ACS Services

Requesting and Managing User/Group Accounts
Cost of using ACS Systems and Services

Need Help? Where to Start

User Documentation
Submitting a Ticket
idsc.miami.edu

Submitting an external grant?

How to budget computing and storage into your grant
I need collaborators—How do I go about it (or can IDSC recommend additional resources)?

2-Day Free Software Carpentry “Python” Workshop at Medical Campus 2/21+22
2024-02-21 09:00 - 2024-02-22 16:30 | Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, 1120 NW 14th St, Miami, FL, 33136, United States
Software Carpentry helps researchers get their work done in less time and with less pain by teaching them fundamental research computing skills. This hands-on Python workshop will cover basic concepts and tools, including program design, version control, data management, and task automation. This course is aimed at graduate students and other researchers. You don’t need to have any previous knowledge of the tools that will be presented. Participants will be encouraged to help one another and to apply what they have learned to their own research problems.
Wednesday + Thursday 2/21+22/2024 | 9:00-4:30 Course Hours Both Days
Register Now | Syllabus
LOCATION
Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute
Don Soffer Clinical Research Center (formerly Clinical Research Building or “CRB”)
1120 NW 14th Street, Rooms 710 Q
Miami, FL 33136
PARKING
You may park in the building’s parking garage. Parking spaces are available throughout the garage at a rate of $1.00 per hour, with a max charge of $8.00/per day. Get directions with OpenStreetMap or Google Maps.
REQUIREMENTS
Participants must bring a laptop with a Mac, Linux, or Windows operating system (not a tablet, Chromebook, etc.) that they have administrative privileges on. They should have a few specific software packages installed (listed on the syllabus).
INSTRUCTORS

Timothy Norris
Data Scientist
University of Miami Libraries and
Frost Institute for Data Science
and Computing (IDSC)
Erica Newcome
STEM and Interdisciplinary
Research Librarian
University of Miami Libraries
Francisco Cardozo Macias
Student
University of Miami

HELPERS

Thilani Samarakoon
Biomedical Data Librarian
University of Miami Libraries
Emory Neer
Research Support Analyst, Center on Aging Research
Miller School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
University of Miami

Catalina Canizares-Escobar
Research Coordinator
Florida International University

ACCESSIBILITY
We are committed to making this workshop accessible to everybody. For workshops at a physical location, the workshop organizers have checked that:

The room is wheelchair / scooter accessible.
Accessible restrooms are available.

Materials will be provided in advance of the workshop and large-print handouts are available if needed by notifying the organizers in advance. If we can help making learning easier for you (e.g. sign-language interpreters, lactation facilities) please get in touch (using contact details below) and we will attempt to provide them.

SPONSORED BY
Louis Calder Memorial Library | Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Studies (CIMAS) | Department of Computer Science | Graduate School | IDSC | Office of the Vice Provost for Research and Scholarship

Guest Lecture: Dr. Gary Jones, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency 2/14
2024-02-14 15:00 - 16:00 | Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
IDSC is pleased to present Dr. Garfield “Gary” Jones, DEng, Associate Chief of Strategic Technology at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). CISA is the operational lead for Federal cybersecurity and the national coordinator for critical infrastructure security and resilience. At CISA, Dr. Jones strategizes and provides guidance on the use of innovative and leading-edge technology. A retired Army Reserve officer, he previously worked as a Systems Engineer developing complex weapons, geographic, and information systems for agencies like the ONI, National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, and NCIS. Dr. Jones holds a Doctor of Engineering in Industrial and Systems Engineering with a concentration in Machine Learning and AI. He teaches courses in Computer Science and Systems Engineering.
The subjects of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) have been at the forefront of U.S. education over the past several years. Much of the focus on STEM education has centered on increasing student achievement in science and math, with the assumption that higher achievement will ensure that students are “ready” to compete. However, students need to have and maintain interest in STEM courses. Educators in the K-12 sector have adopted a variety of approaches based in problem- and project-based learning—often collectively referred to as “PBL”, this project-based approach will help to establish a more interactive environment encompassing theory and practical application.
Wednesday, February 14, 2024 | 3:00-4:00 PM EST
Richter Library, 3rd Floor Conference Room #343 • 1300 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146 | Map + Directions
Register Now
Talk Title
“Appropriately Motivating and Leveraging Academic Problem Solving and Student Interest in Careers that Advance National Cybersecurity Capacity”
Abstract
The subjects of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) have been at the forefront of U.S. education over the past several years. Much of the focus on STEM education has centered on increasing student achievement in science and math, with the assumption that higher achievement will ensure that students are “ready” to compete. However, students need to have and maintain interest in STEM courses. Educators in the K-12 sector have adopted a variety of approaches based in problem- and project-based learning—often collectively referred to as “PBL”, this project-based approach will help to establish a more interactive environment encompassing theory and practical application.

CALL FOR PROPOSALS in Generative AI—Attend our Info Session 12/12 or Apply Now!
2023-12-12 16:30 - 17:00 | Zoom (online)
Apply Now!
Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC) is pleased to announce a new funding opportunity in generative AI for UM Faculty. We envision up to four awards, each with $35K in funding and 2M SUs.
Generative AI can be thought of as a machine-learning model that is trained to create new data, rather than making a prediction about a specific dataset. A generative AI system is one that learns to generate more objects that look like the data it was trained on.
Proposals that examine the use of generative AI across the University enterprise are encouraged including but not limited to ethical use, educational issues, new techniques, and application to advance science, business, medicine, engineering, law, and the humanities.
The research team will prepare a three-page proposal that outlines the research and the specific use of generative AI. The proposal should also include a short discussion of potential external funding mechanisms that the proposed work can use to enhance the competitive position of the research team. The application should include an abbreviated 1-page biosketch and a budget with justification using the templates included in this announcement.
Proposal submission deadline is January 12, 2024. Please see below for program important dates and deadlines. Register for our Zoom Information Session on 12/12 at 4:30 PM.
The research team is required to submit an interim report midway through the performance period. The one-page report should include a brief description of the project’s progress and an overview of the financial situation. Upon project completion, the research team will submit a one-page final report detailing any accomplishments attributed to the work of this project [publications, proposal submission(s) for extramural funding, data sets generated, etc.] and give an oral presentation describing the research and results as part of IDSC’s seminar series. Scheduling of the oral presentation will be coordinated by IDSC’s Engagement Office.
Applications will be reviewed by an evaluation committee to determine feasibility, relevance to IDSC programs, and in terms of how the proposed research will put the team in a more competitive position for external funding.
Important Information and Deadlines

Info Session (via Zoom): 4:30 PM | Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Full Proposals due by: 5:00 PM on Friday, January 12, 2024
Notice of Award due on or before: Friday, January 31, 2024
Project Performance Period: March 1, 2024 – February 2025
Interim Report Due: Monday, September 30, 2024
Service Units (SU) Expire: Monday, March 31, 2025
Final Report Due on: Friday, April 30, 2025
Oral Presentation of Results Due in Fall 2025

Required Attachments

Abbreviated 1 page biosketch template
Budget and Budget Justification template

FilmGate Interactive Media Festival + UM XR Day 11/29-12/3
2023-11-29 00:00 - 2023-12-03 23:59 | Lakeside Village, 1280 Stanford Drive, Coral Gables, 33146, United States
At the crossroads of visual storytelling, entertainment, and the latest immersive technology, this one-of-a-kind international event invites all curious and tech-savvy audiences to explore the best mind-bending stories in interactive and immersive storytelling. Join us at the University of Miami Lakeside Village on the Coral Gables campus 11/30-12/2, the full Festival runs 11/29-12/3 at multiple locations.

FilmGate Interactive Media Festival 10 explores how emerging technology empowers the content of the future. The Festival redefines the way we conceive and share stories, together, democratically and inclusively, representing the diverse voices of our extended region. The Festival will celebrate visual storytellers and supporting industries through screenings, exhibits, creative labs, master classes, immersive art installations, music, and live events.
The 2023 Festival partners with the University of Miami’s “UM XR Day.” Audiences and creators will be invited to attend virtually and in person. The programming is focused on outdoor, accessible installations, as well as the most impactful interactive and immersive projects from around the world. As we approach a united virtual space at increasing rate, aka “the metaverse,” FilmGate will explore the multiverses and 3D spaces that are paving the roads to the future.
Agenda + Tickets
(non-VIP admission is free)
Festival Theme | Regenerate X
For its 10th anniversary, FilmGate Interactive reinvents itself as FILMGATE INTERACTIVE X. The festival seeks to not only mirror the world’s recuperative capabilities but to posit art and technology as vital agents of this renewal. Drawing inspiration from the regenerative capacities of our environment and society, the festival delves into narratives that explore the possibility of a brighter, more inclusive future. Furthermore, with the evolution of generative AI, we’re reminded that regeneration isn’t always a return to a former state: regeneration can radically redefine.
In an era where the echoes of past upheavals reverberate loudly, “REGENERATE X” emerges as a call for collective reinvention—whether through ecological rejuvenation, an audacious reimagining of aesthetic paradigms in arts and culture, or resilience and resurgence post-COVID. Learn more about our speakers, jurors, and projects, and panels at filmgate.miami.
About FilmGate
Since their launch, Filmgate Miami has hosted over 200 fire and pool chats, labs, showcased the works of 400+ creatives, and co-produced 20 creative projects. Their programming is focused but not exclusive to the issues of our region that resonate globally: climate change, social justice, immigration, accessibility, and equality. FilmGate searches for originality, innovation, and boldness, as they shape new roads for humanity.

IDSC Fellows Launch Symposium 11/28
2023-11-28 15:00 - 17:00 | Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
The Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC) is pleased to announce the IDSC Fellows for the 2023-2024 academic year: Madeleine Dawson, Anna Golikova, Tianhao Liu, and Christian Ramsoomair. This is a prestigious designation awarded each year to four graduate or undergraduate students (sophomore level or above) students.
The vision of the IDSC Fellows Program is to inspire a new generation of leaders in data science to cross the traditional boundaries between disciplines. IDSC joins with University faculty to mentor the Fellows on how to best utilize the University’s cutting-edge advanced computing resources in their proposed research projects. Read more about the IDSC Fellows program.
Join us and meet the 2023-2024 IDSC Fellows and hear about their research project proposals. This event is free and open to UM Faculty/Staff/Students.
Tuesday, 11/28/2023, 3:00 – 5:00 PM | Richter Library 343
Otto G. Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive, 3rd Floor Conference Room #343, Coral Gables, FL 33146 (Map + Directions)
Register Now

Madeleine Dawson
3rd year PhD in Ocean Sciences

Anna Golikova
Senior, majoring in Biology

Tianhao Liu
3rd year PhD in Biostatistics

Christian Ramsoomair
3rd year MD/PhD in MSTP

IDSC Fellows Steering Committee
Mohamed Iskandarani Chairman
Alberto Cairo
Kim Grinfeder

Daniel S. Messinger
Mitsunori Ogihara
Kamal Premaratne

Azizi Seixas
Ravi Vadapalli

Collaborate, Grow, Stand Out

2-Day Free Software Carpentry "R" Workshop at Medical Campus 11/15-16
2023-11-15 09:00 - 2023-11-16 16:30 | Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, 1120 NW 14th St, Miami, FL, 33136, United States
Software Carpentry helps researchers get their work done in less time and with less pain by teaching them basic research computing skills. This hands-on “R” workshop will cover basic concepts and tools, including program design, version control, data management, and task automation. The course is aimed at graduate students and other researchers. You don’t need to have any previous knowledge of the tools that will be presented at the workshop. Participants will be encouraged to help one another and to apply what they have learned to their own research problems.
Wednesday + Thursday 11/15-16/2023 | 9:00-4:30 Course Hours Both Days
Register Now (free) | Syllabus
LOCATION
Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute
Don Soffer Clinical Research Center (formerly Clinical Research Building or “CRB”)
1120 NW 14th Street, Rooms 710 R&Q
Miami, FL 33136
PARKING
You may park in the building’s parking garage. Parking spaces are available throughout the garage at a rate of $1.00 per hour, with a max charge of $8.00/per day. Get directions with OpenStreetMap or Google Maps.
REQUIREMENTS
Participants must bring a laptop with a Mac, Linux, or Windows operating system (not a tablet, Chromebook, etc.) that they have administrative privileges on. They should have a few specific software packages installed (listed on the syllabus).
INSTRUCTORS

Cameron Riopelle
Director of Research Data
& Open Scholarship
University of Miami Libraries
Timothy Norris
Data Scientist
University of Miami Libraries and
Frost Institute for Data Science and
Computing (IDSC)
Thilani Samarakoon
Biomedical Data Librarian
University of Miami Libraries

HELPERS

Sreeharsha Venkatapuram
Senior Software Engineer
Frost Institute for Data Science and
Computing (IDSC)

Michele Mayne
2nd Year PhD Sociology Major
Medical Sociology and
Community Health & Well-Being

ACCESSIBILITY
We are committed to making this workshop accessible to everybody. For workshops at a physical location, the workshop organizers have checked that:

The room is wheelchair / scooter accessible.
Accessible restrooms are available.

Materials will be provided in advance of the workshop and large-print handouts are available if needed by notifying the organizers in advance. If we can help making learning easier for you (e.g. sign-language interpreters, lactation facilities) please get in touch (using contact details below) and we will attempt to provide them.

DATA ETHICS

As a part of this 2-day workshop, Dr. Ken Goodman will join us to present “Special Program in Ethics for Scientific Writing and Coding” on 11/16 at 12:30 PM.
Kenneth W. Goodman, PhD, FACMI, FACE
Director, IDSC Data Ethics + Society
Director, Institute for Bioethics and Health Policy
Director, UM Ethics Programs

2-Day Free Software Carpentry “Python” Workshop at Medical Campus 11/2-3
2023-11-02 09:00 - 2023-11-03 16:30
Software Carpentry helps researchers get their work done in less time and with less pain by teaching them basic research computing skills. This hands-on Python workshop will cover basic concepts and tools, including program design, version control, data management, and task automation. The course is aimed at graduate students and other researchers. You don’t need to have any previous knowledge of the tools that will be presented at the workshop. Participants will be encouraged to help one another and to apply what they have learned to their own research problems.
Thursday + Friday 11/2-3/2023 | 9:00-4:30 Course Hours Both Days
This Session is FULL | Syllabus
LOCATION
Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute
Don Soffer Clinical Research Center (formerly Clinical Research Building or “CRB”)
1120 NW 14th Street, Rooms 710 R&Q
Miami, FL 33136
PARKING
You may park in the building’s parking garage. Parking spaces are available throughout the garage at a rate of $1.00 per hour, with a max charge of $8.00/per day. Get directions with OpenStreetMap or Google Maps.
REQUIREMENTS
Participants must bring a laptop with a Mac, Linux, or Windows operating system (not a tablet, Chromebook, etc.) that they have administrative privileges on. They should have a few specific software packages installed (listed on the syllabus).
INSTRUCTORS

Timothy Norris
Data Scientist
University of Miami Libraries and
Frost Institute for Data Science and
Computing (IDSC)
Erica Newcome
STEM and Interdisciplinary Research Librarian
University of Miami Libraries
Cecilia Lopez-Gamundi
Research Assistant
University of Miami Rosenstiel School
for Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science

HELPERS

Thilani Samarakoon
Biomedical Data Librarian
University of Miami Libraries
Sreeharsha Venkatapuram
Senior Software Engineer
Frost Institute for Data Science and
Computing (IDSC)
Charles Brown-Roberts
Applications Software Developer
University of Miami Libraries

ACCESSIBILITY
We are committed to making this workshop accessible to everybody. For workshops at a physical location, the workshop organizers have checked that:

The room is wheelchair / scooter accessible.
Accessible restrooms are available.

Materials will be provided in advance of the workshop and large-print handouts are available if needed by notifying the organizers in advance. If we can help making learning easier for you (e.g. sign-language interpreters, lactation facilities) please get in touch (using contact details below) and we will attempt to provide them.

DATA ETHICS

As a part of this 2-day workshop, Dr. Ken Goodman will join us to present “Special Program in Ethics for Scientific Writing and Coding” on 11/16 at 12:30 PM.
Kenneth W. Goodman, PhD, FACMI, FACE
Director, IDSC Data Ethics + Society
Director, Institute for Bioethics and Health Policy
Director, UM Ethics Programs

Data Citizens: A Distinguished Lecture Series presents Rafael Rodriguez Gárciga 10/26
2023-10-26 12:00 - 13:00 | Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
Data Citizens: A Distinguished Lecture Series is pleased to present ultra contemporary artist and data scientist Rafael Rodriguez Gárciga. Join us on Thursday, October 26, from 12:00 to 1:00 PM. This event is free and open to the public (light lunch). The lecture navigates the exhaustion of creativity, probing its implications for science, art, and philosophy as the tripartite domain of thought.
In person at Richter Library, Conference Room 343,
1300 Memorial Drive, 3rd Floor, Coral Gables, FL 33146 (Map + Directions)
Register Now
TALK TITLE: “The Exhaustion of Creativity: The Need for a New Mode of Thought in the Era of Global Boiling”
Abstract
In an era characterized by apparent life evaporation, this lecture navigates the exhaustion of creativity, probing its implications for science, art, and philosophy as the tripartite domain of thought. As creativity is exhausted, an impasse emerges: can the creativity tasked with generating novel solutions still perform its role when its resources are depleted? This investigation delves into a critical question: when the current boiling point lacks transformative potential, what transpires when creativity becomes exhaustive?
Creativity is redefined as a foundational principle encompassing information, emergence, and ontogenesis by broadening the scope beyond human mental activity. This expanded perspective reframes creativity as the underpinning force within the interconnected spheres of science, art, and philosophy. The lecture introduces ‘the problem of creativity’ as the common nucleus driving global crises, where converging concerns converge into a singular focus.
This lecture proposes a distinct approach—an alternative mode of thought—necessitated by the inadequacy of established disciplinary boundaries upheld by the tripartite structure of Science, Art, and Philosophy. This structure, inherently programmed by the problem of creativity, grapples with revealing alternative perspectives obscured by this very quandary. Thus, the lecture embarks on a journey beyond the confines of conventional thought, demanding a fresh mode of thinking capable of transcending these constraints.
The lecture unfolds its discourse in a sequential progression. Initially, it meticulously dissects the centrality of the problem of creativity within the nexus of converging global crises, unveiling its role in shaping the incapacitation of conventional domains in offering alternatives. Subsequently, it introduces the notion of Prototypification—a paradigmatic shift spawned by techno-science that elevates possibility above reality, epitomized in the prototype’s emblematic form. This conceptual transition stands as the keystone to understanding the contemporary worldview.
The lecture then illuminates the triad of Urbanization, Datification, and Environmentalization as emblematic consequences of Prototypification’s prevalence. These contemporary issues, propagated by the convergence of digital technologies, demand inspection under distinct headings:

‘Prototyping Governance’ investigates the convergence of DAOs, real-world asset tokenization, and Digital Twins, ushering in a governance shift from entities to possibilities.
‘Interfacing Actuality’ explores the convergence of metamaterials, spatial computing, and IoT, transforming actuality into an interface.
‘Prototyping Ecology’ delves into the convergence of Climate Tech and Smart Cities, encompassing a spectrum of technologies within their purview, wherein ecology assumes the guise of the relationship between potentials.

Concluding the lecture, a compelling project is unveiled—an exemplar reflecting a paradigm shift beyond the confines of creativity’s challenge and Prototypification. Envisioned within the context of Miami’s urban natural areas, this project materializes novel perspectives on the interplay between urban landscapes, technology, and the environment, propelling us toward a new era of thought.

About Rafael
Rafael Rodriguez Gárciga was born in the town of Cojimar, a small fishing village east of La Habana, Cuba. Growing up in a fishing village exposed him at a young age to the process of boat building. This early exposure instilled in him an interest for wood carving and fabrication that developed into an interest in sculpture. He attended the National Academy of Fine Arts San Alejandro. In 2010, Rafael emigrated to Miami where he earned a BFA from New World School of the Arts. He has shown locally at Cisneros Fontanals Art Foundation, Aluna Art Foundation, Miami Biennale and The Yard at Casalin. Rafael Rodriguez Gárciga’s first verified exhibition was Rafael Rodriguez – Prototype No. 1: The possible and the actual at Fredric Snitzer Gallery in Miami, FL in 2020, and the most recent exhibition was Rafael Rodriguez Gárciga – Prototyping Actuality at Fredric Snitzer Gallery in Miami, FL in 2022. Gárciga is exclusively exhibited in the United States. Gárciga is ranked among the Top 100,000 globally, and among the Top 1,000 in Cuba. Gárciga’s best rank was in 2023.
Rafael participated in our Smart Cities MIAMI 2023 Conference.

Inaugural "IDSC Day" 9/28
2023-09-28 13:00 - 18:00 | Frost Institute for Chemistry and Molecular Science, 1201 Memorial Drive, Great Room 1st Floor, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, United States
Please plan to attend our first annual “IDSC Day” on Thursday, September 28, in the great room of the new Frost Institute for Chemistry and Molecular Science building. It will be an exciting face-to-face celebration that brings together faculty, staff, students, and industry partners, and marks the formal introduction of the Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC).
At IDSC Day, you can meet our core faculty members and IDSC Fellows, and discuss their projects, studies, and research interests. There will be demos, posters, and presentations from grant recipients, who will discuss how IDSC support has made them more competitive for Federal funding. We will also highlight IDSC’s growth over the past two years and the impact we have made on the University of Miami, the South Florida community, and beyond. Toward the end of the day, we will host a relaxing social event, providing opportunities for conversations, learning, and networking. In a work-from-anywhere world, we recognize the important of the tradition office “water cooler” conversations.
Register Now (free)
Thursday 9/28 | 1:00-6:00 PM (Networking Reception 4:30-6:00 PM)
Location
Frost Institute for Chemical and Molecular Science Building (Map + Directions)
1201 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146 | Great Hall + Seminar Room
Parking
If you do not have a UM/Gables campus parking permit, there is designated parking available in LOT 1-109A. Enter off Campo Sano Avenue at Wilder Drive, turn left.
Use the parking link and code to register your vehicle (enter your license plate number): https://www.offstreet.io/location/AVROA0EM Registration code – 8844
This is a blow-up of the upper-right hand corner of the full map below . . .

Rey

Call for Proposals: Virtual INFORMATION SESSION 9/13 5PM
2023-09-19 17:00 - 17:30 | Zoom (online)
IDSC invites UM faculty to respond to our Call for Proposals for Expanding the Use of Collaborative Data Science at UM. The opportunity is designed to increase the use of data science to foster breakthroughs in disciplinary pursuits making the research team more competitive for external funding. Awards include $20K in discretionary funds plus 1M Service Units (SUs) to be used for high performance computing (HPC) on IDSC systems. It is anticipated that five awards will be made.
Bring your questions to our virtual information session on Wednesday, 9/13/2023 at 5:00-5:30 PM.
Register Now
Eligibility
This funding opportunity is open to UM Faculty with an active IDSC Membership. For more information or to apply for an IDSC membership, visit our Membership page.

Applications are required to include at least one data scientist (from the Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing – IDSC) and one researcher from a specific discipline. Typically, the disciplinary researcher initiates and leads the project. The IDSC data scientist acts as a high-level consultant to ensure the proposal has enough data science.
The awards include $20K in discretionary funds[1] and 1M Service Units (SUs) to be used for high performance computing (HPC). It is anticipated that five awards will be made.
Any topic and issue involving data science are welcome. Pre-submission inquiries are encouraged.
In terms of this grant opportunity, data science is defined as utilizing state-of-the-art approaches such as Machine Learning (ML) or Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enable scientific discovery that is data driven. Simply, proposing to analyze large data sets with traditional techniques (e.g., linear regression) is not responsive to this opportunity. Proposals that use ML/AI to develop new understanding are strongly encouraged.
The application process includes two steps:
Step 1: The disciplinary researcher provides a one-page letter of intent to IDSC outlining the discipline-specific research and where data science fits in. Based on the letter of intent, the IDSC review team will identify an IDSC data scientist for collaboration, if the research team has not already identified a IDSC partner.
Step 2: Upon invitation to advance to Step 2, the research team (with assistance from the IDSC data scientist) will prepare a two-page proposal that outlines the research and the data science plan. The proposal should also include a short discussion of potential external funding mechanisms that the proposed work can use to enhance the competitive position of the research team. The application should include an abbreviated 1-page biosketch and a budget with justification using the templates included in this announcement.

Reporting
The research team is required to submit an interim report midway through the performance period. The one-page report should include a brief description of the project’s progress and an overview of the financial situation. Upon project completion, the research team will submit a one-page final report detailing any accomplishments attributed to the work of this project [publications, proposal submission(s) for extramural funding, data sets generated, etc.] and give an oral presentation describing the research and results as part of IDSC’s seminar series. Scheduling of the oral presentation will be coordinated by IDSC’s Engagement Office.

Review Process
Applications will be reviewed by an evaluation committee to determine feasibility, relevance to IDSC programs, and in terms of how the proposed research will put the team in a more competitive position for external funding.

Distribution of Award Funds
Funds will be disbursed in two installments. Half of the award funds be disbursed at the start of the performance period. The balance will be released upon receipt of the interim report.

Important Information and Deadlines

INFO SESSION led by Ben Kirtman and Ken Goodman: Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at 5: 00 pm (30 minutes)
Step 1 – Letters of Intent: Due by 5:00 PM Friday, September 29, 2023
Invitation to submit full proposal (Step. 2) with Identification of an IDSC Data Scientist Partner (if Applicable): Friday, October 13, 2023.
Step 2 – Two-page proposal: Due by 5:00 PM on Friday, November 17, 2023
Notice of Award: On or Before Friday, December 15, 2023
Project Performance Period: January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024.
Interim Report Due on Monday, July 1, 2024
Service Units (SU) Expire Friday, January 31, 2025
Final Report Due on Friday, February 28, 2025
Oral Presentation of Results Due in Spring 2025

[1] Discretionary funds can be used for salary, travel, and other research-related expenditures as outlined in the proposal budget. Equipment purchases are not allowed.

2023-2024 IDSC Fellows INFORMATION SESSION 9/19 4PM
2023-09-19 16:00 - 17:00 | Zoom (online)
Attention: UM Graduate and Undergraduate Students! The 9/19 info. session has passed but if you are interested in applying to be an IDSC Fellow, bring your questions to IDSC Day next Thursday, September 28 [register here (free)]. We’ll be at the Frost Institute for Chemistry and Molecular Science building from 1:00-6:00 PM and we’ll do our best to answer them.

The vision of the IDSC Fellows Program is to inspire a new generation of leaders in data science to cross the traditional boundaries between disciplines. IDSC joins with University faculty to mentor IDSC Fellows on how to best utilize University’s cutting-edge advanced computing resources in their proposed research projects. At the beginning and close of each spring semester, IDSC Fellows present their work at an open, in-person symposium. No stipend is offered, but a small cash prize is awarded. IDSC Fellows develop their computational skills and expand their research experience under the guidance of two mentors. Both mentors are faculty members: The first is the student’s research advisor, and the second is identified by the IDSC Fellows program and provides the computational research expertise.
This is a prestigious designation awarded each year to a total of four graduate or undergraduate (sophomore level or above) students. Applicants may be from any School or College at the University of Miami and must be in good standing.
2023-2024 APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED: Monday, 10/2

Application Process, Materials, and Timeline | Brochure
Applicants are required to submit a completed APPLICATION FORM, accompanied by:

a transcript
a CV, and
in the case of graduate students, a support letter from their academic mentor.

The Steering Committee meets within one week of the closing of applications to choose the IDSC Fellows.
An announcement is then emailed to offices of Undergraduate Research, Graduate Office (UM, MSOM, RSMAS, CoE, CAS), and to student groups at CoE, CAS, Med School, and RSMAS. Media Relations will help publicize it internally (NEWS@TheU), and via student media.
The application process is the submission of an online form where all supporting documents are uploaded. Click here for complete Program Guidelines.

Selection Criteria

Student must have computational skills sufficient to get started on the proposed project*.
The proposed project integrates ideas from more than two disciplines, one of which must be new to the student.
Graduate students should have a well-formulated, achievable research question that is in line with their academic mentor’s letter of support.
Graduate students also need a support letter from their academic adviser or PI.
The Application Form must be complete, well written, well organized, and thoroughly thought out. *Project details need not be clearly defined at the time of application.
Previous research experience is not requisite, but is an advantage.
Student must be in good standing with the University.

Steering Committee
Mohamed Iskandarani Chairman
Alberto Cairo
Kim Grinfeder

Daniel S. Messinger
Mitsunori Ogihara
Kamal Premaratne

Azizi Seixas
Ravi Vadapalli

Collaborate, Grow, Stand Out

Free 2-day Scientific Computing "R" Workshop at Medical Campus 6/29-30
2023-06-29 09:00 - 2023-06-30 16:30 | Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, 1120 NW 14th St, Miami, FL, 33136, United States
Software Carpentry’s Scientific Computing Workshops help researchers get their work done in less time and with less pain by teaching them basic research computing skills. This hands-on workshop will cover basic concepts and tools, including program design, version control, data management, and task automation. Participants will be encouraged to help one another and to apply what they have learned to their own research problems.
For more information on what we teach and why, please see our paper “Best Practices for Scientific Computing“.
FULL-Registration Closed | Syllabus
Who: The course is aimed at graduate students and other researchers. You don’t need to have any previous knowledge of the tools that will be presented at the workshop.
Where: Rooms 710 R&Q, Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, 1120 NW 14th St., Miami, FL 33136. Get directions with OpenStreetMap or Google Maps.
When: Jun 29-30, 2023 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Class Hours Both Days ( Add to your Google Calendar. )
Requirements: Participants must bring a laptop with a Mac, Linux, or Windows operating system (not a tablet, Chromebook, etc.) that they have administrative privileges on. They should have a few specific software packages installed (listed below).
Accessibility: We are committed to making this workshop accessible to everybody. For workshops at a physical location, the workshop organizers have checked that:

The room is wheelchair / scooter accessible.
Accessible restrooms are available.

Materials will be provided in advance of the workshop and large-print handouts are available if needed by notifying the organizers in advance. If we can help making learning easier for you (e.g. sign-language interpreters, lactation facilities) please get in touch (using contact details below) and we will attempt to provide them.
Contact: Please email tnorris@miami.edu for more information.
Roles: To learn more about the roles at the workshop (who will be doing what), refer to our Workshop FAQ.

Data Citizens: A Distinguished Lecture Series presents Dr. Nawar Shara 6/7
2023-06-07 15:00 - 16:00 | Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
Join us for a “Data Citizens: A Distinguished Lecture Series” talk featuring Nawar Shara, PhD, an esteemed researcher and professor of medicine at Georgetown University School of Medicine. Renowned for her expertise in biostatistics, health informatics, and data science, Dr. Shara will address how AI and ML are transforming healthcare.
Register Now
Wednesday, June 7, 2023 | 3:00 – 4:00PM
Richter Library 3rd Floor Conference Room, #343 | or via ZOOM The Data Citizens Distinguished Lecture Series is an ongoing course of in-depth talks by experts in the field of data science on a wide variety of topics including data visualization, big data, AI, and predictive analytics. This series is co-sponsored by the Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) and is free and open to the public.
TALK TITLE: “Revolutionizing Healthcare: Unleashing the Power of AI and ML”
Abstract
The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) has brought about a transformative era in the field of healthcare. One area where the power of AI and ML has proven to be truly remarkable is the utilization of Electronic Health Records (EHRs). EHRs have long been recognized as a treasure trove of valuable patient information but extracting meaningful insights from these vast repositories has always been a challenge.
In this talk, we will explore how AI and ML techniques have enabled us to unveil the power of EHR data to enhance patient care and improve healthcare outcomes. Through sophisticated algorithms and advanced analytics, AI and ML algorithms have the ability to sift through mountains of data with precision and speed, uncovering patterns, predicting risks, and providing personalized treatment recommendations.
We will delve into specific applications of AI and ML in EHR analysis, such as early detection to prevent worsening conditions, treatment optimization, identify disparities in care and patient-provider communication. We will showcase how these technologies have enabled healthcare professionals to identify at-risk patients, intervene proactively, and develop targeted treatment plans tailored to individual needs. However, along with the immense potential, we must also address the ethical considerations and challenges associated with integrating AI and ML into healthcare systems. Privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and the need for human oversight will be explored to ensure responsible and trustworthy use of AI and ML in healthcare. Finally, in this talk we will unveil the untapped potential of AI and ML in leveraging EHRs to reshape the landscape of healthcare. Discover the remarkable possibilities that lie ahead as we harness the power of AI and ML to provide personalized, precise, and efficient care for patients, transforming healthcare as we know it.
Bio
With a distinguished career spanning over 20 years, Dr. Nawar Shara serves as the Director of the Center of Biostatistics, Informatics and Data Science (CBIDS) at the MedStar Health Research Institute (MHRI), where she spearheads federally and industry funded projects. At the forefront of her field, Dr. Shara leads multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional collaborations, focusing on the revolutionary integration of AI and ML solutions within the vast realm of Big Data, including the Electronic Health Records (EHRs). Her pioneering work enables the extraction of invaluable insights from EHRs, leveraging predictive analytics, data mining, and cutting-edge AI/ML algorithms. As the Director of the Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Research Design core (BERD) and co-Director of the Biomedical Informatics core (BI) for Georgetown-Howard Universities Center for Clinical and Translational Science (GHUCCTS). Dr. Shara oversees collaborative initiatives that transcend institutional boundaries. Within this role, she develops comprehensive courses, workshops, and mentors junior faculty and research scholars, nurturing the next generation of experts in the field.
Dr. Shara’s research interests revolve around the application of Big Data solutions, harnessing the power of AI, ML, and AI/ML data solutions in the realm of health sciences. She has made significant contributions to the design and development of biostatistical curricula, with a specific focus on integrating AI/ML applications within healthcare. Furthermore, Dr. Shara boasts an impressive publication record, with over 100 peer-reviewed papers to her credit.
As the site lead for the AIM-AHEAD NIH-funded consortium for the Training Core and the data and research Core, Dr. Shara is dedicated to improving patient outcomes, enhancing patient-provider communication, and reducing healthcare utilization through the implementation of AI/ML solutions. Her visionary approach and unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare informatics have earned her widespread recognition as a leader in the field.
In summary, Dr. Shara’s profound expertise in biostatistics, health informatics, and AI/ML applications positions her as a trailblazer in the realm of healthcare innovation. Through her groundbreaking research, curriculum development, and mentorship, she continues to shape and inspire the future of healthcare informatics, leaving an indelible mark on the field.

2022-2023 IDSC Fellows Final Project Presentations 4/27
2023-04-27 15:00 - 16:30 | Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
The 2022-2023 IDSC Fellows will gather once again to present the final project presentations at the Richter Library, 3rd Floor Conference Room, #343, on Thursday, April 27, from 3:00-4:30 PM. Join us in person for light refreshments (or via ZOOM) and hear their progress since their initial pitch.
Take a look back at their opening presentations. Each spoke briefly on what they hoped to accomplish, and we look forward to hearing what progress they have made, and what they learned as they utilized data science and advanced computing in their research.
WATCH—Initial project presentations (in this order): Jeffrey Serville (starts at 5:22), Kelly Soluri (starts at 14:00), Sadegh Tale Masoule (starts at 39:54), and Shara Sookhoo (starts at 48:00).
Register Now

Orientation-selective Deep Brain Stimulation of Midbrain Circuits in the Yucatan Micropig for Improving Gait After Spinal Cord Injury

Jeffrey W. Serville
MENTOR: Ravi Vadapalli, PhD | Director, IDSC Advanced Computing
– Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering
– Department to Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine
– The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis
– Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC)
– Institute for Neural Engineering (INEM)
Jeffrey is a 2nd year PhD student in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. His research focuses on neuromodulation and rehabilitation for movement disorders, specifically spinal cord injury. As an IDSC Fellow, he aspires to utilize the university’s Triton supercomputer to accelerate preprocessing algorithms designed for diffusion-weighted images (including eddy-current, susceptibility, and motion distortions) and automate MRI-based segmentation of the pig brain that is used for generating anatomically-constrained-tractograms (3D reconstructed fiber pathways) to predict neural activation patterns resulting from deep brain stimulation of the mesencephalic locomotor region (midbrain/brainstem) in pigs. The purpose of his research project is to optimize stimulation programming, as it relates to generating locomotion while minimizing unwanted side-effects, by implementing the finite-element method to solve the associated bioelectric field problem on a subject-by-subject basis.

Project Overview

Overcome computational bottlenecks commonly encountered in traditional desktop or workstation environments, for, specifically, preprocessing of diffusion-weighted images (DWIs). This can take eight up to sixteen hours and it’s a huge bottleneck in the computational workflow.
Improve DBS (deep brain simulation) outcomes by offering more realistic visualizations and realizations (i.e. surgical planning and/or consultation)
Decrease the times it takes for potential DBS therapies to go from bench to bedside.

Forecasting Bycatch Hotspots Using Machine Learning

Kelly S. Soluri
Kelly Soluri, M.S. Candidate for Marine Biology and Ecology, Rosenstiel School for Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science
MENTORS:
– Dr. Elizabeth Babcock, quantitative fisheries scientist and professor at the University of Miami with a specialty in fisheries stock assessments.
– Dr. Gang Ren, data and computer scientist and professor at the University of Miami with expertise in artificial intelligence
– Dr. Mitsunori Ogihara, Director of Workforce Development and Education at IDSC and Editor-in-Chief of the Theory of Computer Systems Journal with research interests in data mining
– Cooperative Institute for Marine And Atmospheric Studies (CIMAS)
– National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Kelly Sophia Soluri is a Marine Biology and Ecology Master’s student at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Sciences at the University of Miami. She is using machine learning to research quantitative fisheries with Dr. Beth Babcock with a focus in optimizing ways to forecast hotspots in the Gulf of Mexico where many untargeted species are caught. Previously, she has researched sea turtles with Dr. Mariana Fuentes of Florida State University, science diplomacy for the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Science and Technology Cooperation in Washington D.C., and environmentally equitable urban planning with the Miami-Dade County Office of Resilience.
Kelly has strong interests in ecological processes in oceanic and coastal systems as well as learning novel technologies and methods to better understand how these processes function as a response to climate change or anthropogenic pressure. As a native South Floridian, she wishes to support coastal communities that deal with sea level rise, resource insecurity, and intensifying natural disasters. She is also passionate about science literacy for all and the uplifting of minority communities in STEM.

Segmentation and Evaluation of Micro-Cracks from Micro-CT Images of Concrete Elements

Sadegh Tale Masoule
MENTOR: David Chapman, PhD | IDSC AI + Machine Learning
Sadegh is a second-year PhD student doing research in the advanced infrastructure materials lab in the college of engineering. His research includes measuring physiochemical properties of polymers in fluids and in cast construction materials, and then analyzing the results with different methods, one of them being machine learning that he’s currently pursuing. He hopes that with access to the IDSC’s expertise and resources, he can achieve good progress on his project.

Project Goals

Learn more about different segmentation models and transfer learning
Build a comprehensive database of micro-cracks with different samples
Develop a pipeline to accurately segment and measure micro-cracks as an estimation for the level of damage in elements
Publish the results

To Investigate the Co-Occurrence Patterns in the Microbiomes of Six Species of Corals

Shara Sookhoo
MENTOR: Manohar Murthi, PhD, Associate Professor | College of Engineering, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
– Dr. Nikki Traylor Knowles, Associate Professor, Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, Rosenstiel School for Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science | Secondary Faculty in Biology
– Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Shara is a Junior majoring in Marine Biology and Ecology with minors in Computer Science and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. After learning to SCUBA dive at 14, she became passionate about coral conservation. Through her work with University of Miami’s Marine Genomics lab and Mote’s Coral Health and Disease lab, she is learning the skills to find and develop corals that are more resilient to climate change and disease. In the last year, these interests have led her to jump off a bridge in the Florida Keys and climb a volcano in the Galapagos. Both in and out of the lab, Shara always looking for the next adventure.

You’re Invited to our (virtual) Advanced Computing User Group Meeting 4/27
2023-04-27 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom (online)
IDSC is excited to invite you to join the Advanced Computing User Group founded on “User-helps-User” approach and serving as a platform to promote interdisciplinary collaborations through computing and analytics across the UM enterprise. Join us via ZOOM on Thursday 4/27 from 1:00-2:30 PM, no registration required.
The user group meets twice a year and serves as a catalyst to promote collaborations across topics including computing infrastructure, domain areas, applications, and training needs. We anticipate that this engagement will bolster computational research and training opportunities while streamlining existing research and training activities.

Introduction to “User Helps User” Paradigm
Multichannel Engagement Opportunities
Platforms for Collaboration and Deliverables
Q&A

Join via ZOOM
Topic: Advanced Computing User Group Meeting
Time: Apr 27, 2023 01:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
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Meeting ID: 995 9464 9696
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Data Citizens: A Distinguished Lecture Series presents Dr. Matthew Goodwin 4/19
2023-04-19 16:00 - 17:00 | Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
Join us for a Data Citizens lecture on “The Promises of Wearable Bio-Sensing Technology for Youth with Autism” by Dr. Matthew S. Goodwin, Interdisciplinary Associate Professor at the Bouvé College of Health Sciences and the Khoury College of Computer Science at Northeastern University.
Register Now
Wednesday 4/19, 4:00-5:00 PM
via Zoom or in person: Richter Library, 3rd Floor Conference Room 343
1300 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33146 | Map + Directions
About Dr. Goodwin
Matthew S. Goodwin is an Interdisciplinary Associate Professor with tenure at Northeastern University jointly appointed in the Bouvé College of Health Sciences and the Khoury College of Computer Science, where he is a founding member of a new doctoral program in Personal Health Informatics and Directs the Computational Behavioral Science Laboratory.
Goodwin has held appointments at Harvard Medical School as a Visiting Associate Professor in the Department of Biomedical Informatics (2018-2020), Brown University as an Adjunct Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Human Behavior (2008-2018), and the MIT Media Lab as Director of Clinical Research (2008-2011). He has also served on the Executive Board of the International Society for Autism Research (2005-2008) and the Scientific Advisory Board for Autism Speaks (2014-2017). He has over 25 years of research and clinical experience working with children and adults on the autism spectrum and developing and evaluating innovative behavioral assessment and intervention technologies, including video and audio capture, telemetric physiological monitors, accelerometry sensors, and digital video/facial recognition systems.
Goodwin has received several honors, including a dissertation award from the Society of Multivariate Experimental Psychology, the Peter Merenda Prize in Statistics and Research Methodology, Hariri Award for Transformative Computational Science, a career contribution award from the Princeton Autism Lecture Series, and he was named an Aspen Ideas Scholar by the Aspen Institute and a Matilda White Riley Early-Stage Investigator by the National Institutes of Health. He has obtained research funding from various sources, including the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Defense Advanced Research Project Agency, Department of Defense, Simons Foundation, Nancy Lurie Marks Family Foundation, and Autism Speaks.
Goodwin received his B.A. in psychology from St. Clare’s in Oxford and Wheaton College and his MA and PhD in experimental psychology and behavioral science from the University of Rhode Island. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Affective Computing in the MIT Media Lab in 2010.

TALK TITLE: The Promises of Wearable Bio-Sensing Technology for Youth with Autism
This presentation will demonstrate several innovative technologies being developed to enhance and accelerate research and learning in individuals on the autism spectrum, including wireless sensors for long-term monitoring of physiological arousal in natural settings; wireless 3-axis accelerometers and pattern recognition algorithms that can automate the detection of stereotypical hand flapping and body rocking; and unobtrusive audio and video capture systems able to gather ultradense longitudinal records of behavior and development in home environments. This approach illustrates how objective data streams can be modeled to predict real world behavior in clinical samples.
Learning Objectives:

Develop awareness of wearable autonomic nervous system sensing technology to assess physiological indicators of stress and arousal in individuals with ASD.
Develop awareness of wearable physical activity sensing technology to assess stereotypical motor movements in individuals with ASD.
Develop awareness of audio and video capture devices to assess longitudinal behavior and its development in individuals with ASD.

About Data Citizens
Data Citizens: A Distinguished Lecture Series is an ongoing course of in-depth talks by experts in the field of data science on a wide variety of topics including data visualization, big data, AI, and predictive analytics. The Data Citizens lecture series is co-sponsored by the Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) and is free and open to the public.

Yelena Yesha to Keynote AIChE 4th Engineering Cosmetics and Consumer Products Conference (ECCP) 4/18-20
2023-04-18 00:00 - 2023-04-20 23:59 | Crowne Plaza Princeton Conference Center, 900 Scudders Mill Road, Plainsboro Township, NJ, 08536, United States
IDSC Innovation Officer and Head of International Relations Dr. Yelena Yesha will be a keynote speaker at the AIChE 4th Engineering Cosmetics and Consumer Products Conference (ECCP), April 18-20, 2023. ECCP offers scientists, engineers, and academic researchers a window into the latest technologies and approaches for manufacturing, packaging, and engineering.
The Conference takes place at the Crowne Plaza Princeton Conference Center in Plainsboro, New Jersey. Technical sessions will take place April 19-20, and receptions occur the evening before and the evening after the first day of the technical program. Dr. Yesha’s Keynote Address will be on Day 3 4/20 from 8:10 to 8:55 AM ET.
“ECCP 2023 serves as an international platform for researchers, product developers, and entrepreneurs from industry and academia to share their unique insights on key current and emerging developments from product engineering to the connected consumer and from AI to sustainability.”
-SAMIUL AMIN, ORGANIZING COMMITTEE CHAIR, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI
Register Now | Topics and Agenda

Conference Topics

Product Engineering Covers all aspects of formulation design of cosmetic and consumer products including utilization of novel materials, characterization of microstructure and performance.
Process and Packaging Engineering Covers all aspects of processing of formulated products including novel processing techniques, in-line characterization of processes, and processing challenges. All aspects of packaging design including sustainability aspects are covered.
Connected Consumer and Digital Beauty This covers new technology, software, and devices allowing collection and integration of consumer data in developing consumer products. The utilization of AI based approaches is covered, as well as novel developments in sensor technologies to allow consumers to monitor skin, hair conditions and health.
Health, Hygiene & Microbiome This covers all research and product development which is based on impacting the skin microbiome and overall which is targeted towards impacting health and beauty.
Sustainability in Consumer Products and Clean Beauty This covers all aspects of designing and manufacturing of sustainable products from ingredient sourcing, formulation and process design to packaging. All aspects which are aligned with clean beauty are within scope.

About Yelena Yesha, PhD
Innovation Officer and Head of International Relations, University of Miami Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC)
Director, IDSC AI + Machine Learning
Knight Foundation Endowed Chair of Data Science and AI
Professor, Department of Radiology
Professor, Department of Computer Science
Founding Director, NSF CARTA
At the University of Miami, Dr. Yelena Yesha is the Knight Foundation Endowed Chair of Data Science and AI at the Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC). At IDSC, Dr. Yesha is also the IDSC Innovation Officer and Head of International Relations. In this role, Dr. Yesha assists faculty in engaging government and industrial partners to collaborate with the University and consults with faculty on developing research ideas into innovations.
Dr. Yesha was the Founding Director of the National Science Foundation Center for Accelerated Real Time Analytics (CARTA), an NSF-funded Industry/University Cooperative Research Center (I/UCRC) that aims to develop long-term partnerships among industry, academia, and government. CARTA partners with Rutgers University New Brunswick, North Carolina State University, the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), Tel Aviv University, and the University of Miami.
Dr. Yesha received her B.Sc. degrees in Computer Science and in Applied Mathematics from York University, Toronto, Canada, and her M.Sc. degree and Ph.D. degree in Computer Science from The Ohio State University. She has published 11 books as author or editor, and more than 200 papers in prestigious refereed journals and refereed conference proceedings, and she has been awarded external funding in a total amount exceeding 45 million dollars. She is currently working with leading industrial companies and government agencies on new innovative technology in the areas of blockchains, cybersecurity, and big data analytics with applications to electronic commerce, climate change, and digital healthcare. Dr. Yesha is a fellow of the IBM Centre for Advanced Studies.
Forbes magazine highlighted Dr. Yesha’s accomplishments in technology in a two-part profile: Part I: Dr. Yelena Yesha: Meet The Tenacious Pioneer Pushing Innovation To Address Real World Problems and Part II: Dr. Yelena Yesha: Pushing Technology Boundaries To Solve The World’s Biggest Problems.
