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Events for January

  • Repeating EventEiS Communications Hub Drop-In Hours

    Mon, Jan 08, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to stop by the EiS Communications Hub for one-on-one instruction for their academic and professional communications tasks. All instruction is provided by Viterbi faculty at the Engineering in Society Program.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A

    Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students

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    Contact: Helen Choi

    Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home?authuser=0

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  • Repeating EventEiS Communications Hub Drop-In Hours

    Wed, Jan 10, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to stop by the EiS Communications Hub for one-on-one instruction for their academic and professional communications tasks. All instruction is provided by Viterbi faculty at the Engineering in Society Program.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A

    Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students

    View All Dates

    Contact: Helen Choi

    Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home?authuser=0

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  • PhD Thesis Defense - Chung-Wei Lee

    Wed, Jan 10, 2024 @ 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM

    Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science

    University Calendar


    PhD Thesis Defense - Chung-Wei Lee
     
    Committee Members: 
     
    Haipeng Luo (chair)
    Ashutosh Nayyar
    Vatsal Sharan
     
    Title:
    No-Regret Learning and Last-Iterate Convergence in Games
     
     
    Abstract:
    No-regret learning (or online learning) is a general framework for studying sequential decision-making. Within this framework, the learner iteratively makes decisions, receives feedback, and adjusts their strategies. In this thesis, we consider analyzing the learning dynamics of no-regret algorithms in game scenarios where players play a single game repeatedly with particular no-regret algorithms. This exploration not only raises fundamental questions at the intersection of machine learning and game theory but also stands as a vital element when developing recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence.
     
    A notable instance of this influence is the widespread adoption of the “self-play” concept in game AI development, exemplified in games such as Go and Poker. With this technique, AI agents learn how to play by competing against themselves to enhance their performance step by step. In the terminology of literature focused on learning in games, the method involves running a set of online learning algorithms for players in the game to compute and approximate their game equilibria. To learn more efficiently in games, it is critical to design better online learning algorithms. Standard notions evaluating online learning algorithms in games include “regret,” assessing the average quality of iterates, and “last-iterate convergence,” representing the quality of the final iterates.
     
    In this thesis, we design online learning algorithms and prove that they achieve near-optimal regret or fast last-iterate convergence in various game settings. We start from the simplest two-player zero-sum normal-form games and extend the results to multi-player games, extensive-form games that capture sequential interaction and imperfect information, and finally, the most general convex games. Moreover, we also analyze the weaknesses of prevalent online learning algorithms widely employed in practice and propose a fix for them. This not only makes the algorithms more robust but also sheds light on getting better learning algorithms for artificial intelligence in the future. 

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 306

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: CS Events

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  • Viterbi Impact Program Information Session

    Thu, Jan 11, 2024 @ 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM

    USC Viterbi School of Engineering

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Want to make a difference in the Los Angeles Community? Join the Viterbi Impact Program! The Viterbi Impact Program (VIP) helps connect Viterbi students to volunteer opportunities through USC's K-12 STEM Center and local community organizations. Join this information session to learn more about VIP and the value of service in the local community and the engineering profession.

    Location: Private Location (register to display)

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Noe Mora

    Event Link: https://engage.usc.edu/viterbi/rsvp?id=394093

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  • Repeating EventEiS Communications Hub Drop-In Hours

    Fri, Jan 12, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to stop by the EiS Communications Hub for one-on-one instruction for their academic and professional communications tasks. All instruction is provided by Viterbi faculty at the Engineering in Society Program.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A

    Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students

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    Contact: Helen Choi

    Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home?authuser=0

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  • Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering

    Fri, Jan 12, 2024 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

    Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: Bingfei Yu, Ph.D., Assistant Professor Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology - USC-KSOM

    Talk Title: "Decoding and rewiring immune recognition at single-cell resolution"

    Abstract: Cells sense and respond to the external world with cell surface receptors. Each receptor is like a lock that can only be opened with the right key ligand. One of the greatest challenges is finding the special key that unlocks each receptor, e.g. on individual immune cells that each possess a distinct T cell receptor which recognizes a unique antigen. I developed a viral platform termed ENTER to approach this problem at scale, and read out ligand specificity, receptor identity, and cell fate consequences in single cells. I further engineered ENTER to achieve targeted delivery of therapeutic payload to antigen-specific immune cells, from "reading" receptors to "writing" cell compositions based on receptor identity. This work uncovers immune recognition and communication principles, and offers translational avenues in autoimmunity and cancer immunotherapy.

    Biography: Dr. Bingfei Yu is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology and a primary member of Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. She earned her Ph.D. in Immunology from the University of California, San Diego, where she worked with Prof. Ananda Goldrath on differentiation pathways of T cells combating infectious diseases and cancer. During her postdoc research in the lab of Prof. Howard Chang at Stanford, Bingfei explored epigenetics, viral engineering, and single cell genomics to develop technologies that decode immune recognition and molecular blueprints. She is a recipient of Parker Bridge Fellow, Baxter Foundation Faculty Fellow, and the V scholar award.

    Host: Keyue Shen, Ph.D.

    Location: Olin Hall of Engineering (OHE) - 100 B

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Carla Stanard

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  • PhD Thesis Defense - Meryem M'Hamdi

    Tue, Jan 16, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

    Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science

    University Calendar


    PhD Thesis Defense - Meryem MHamdi       
     
    Title: Towards More Human-Like Cross-lingual Transfer Learning      
     
    Committee Members: Jonathan May (Chair), Aiichiro Nakano, Khalil Iskarous.    
     
    Abstract: Cross-lingual transfer learning comprises a set of techniques used to adapt a model trained on (a) source language(s), enabling it to generalize to new target languages. With the emergence of Transformer-based contextualized encoders, there has been a surge in multilingual representations that adapt these encoders to various cross-lingual downstream applications. The surprising zero-shot capabilities of these encoders make them promising substitutes for other fully supervised techniques, bypassing the need for large-scale annotation. However, these representations are still far from solving the long-tail of NLP phenomenon, where models are biased more towards high-resource and typologically similar languages to the source language. This bias can be attributed to the over-reliance of current transfer learning pipelines on what we define as the 'Data-Intensive Identically-Distributed Minimally-Evaluated' paradigm.  In this thesis, we analyze and propose techniques to advance the capabilities of multilingual language models beyond the traditional paradigm and more toward human-like cross-lingual transfer learning. We achieve that through 1) human-inspired input requirements by using few-shot meta-learning techniques, 2) human-inspired outcomes by defining a cross-lingual continual learning evaluation paradigm, and 3) human-inspired approaches through devising cognitive strategies to consolidate retention of knowledge learned across languages. Our contributions towards advancing the current transfer learning paradigm towards human-like learning are four-fold: 1) We explore cross-lingual fine-tuning on low-resource multilingual applications such as event trigger extraction and semantic search, shedding light on the strengths and limitations of existing cross-lingual transfer learning techniques. 2) We propose language-agnostic meta-learning approaches that can further bridge the gap between source and target typologically diverse languages. We show the merits of our approaches in reaching quicker and smoother generalization compared to naive fine-tuning, especially under low-resource scenarios. 3) We are the first to define a lifelong learning paradigm that analyzes language shifts. We show the merits and challenges of a multi-hop analysis where the system continually learns over several languages one at a time. 4) We are the first to adapt a cognitively inspired technique based on Leitner-queues to choose what to repeat in a cross-lingual continual learning setup and investigate its impact on reducing the forgetting of previously learned languages.  

    Location: Henry Salvatori Computer Science Center (SAL) - 213

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: CS Events

    Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/94477374759?pwd=ajZrd1o0QktVVXZsRk9UL1J6NGdtdz09#success

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  • How to Develop an Effective Resume and Cover Letter

    Tue, Jan 16, 2024 @ 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Career Connections

    Workshops & Infosessions


    THIS EVENT WILL BE HOSTED HYBRID: IN-PERSON & ONLINE SIMULTANEOUSLY
    Zoom link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0pce2pqzkjHN0WEJgvAEytXoJsY2BgIrDa
    Does your resume highlight the skills that will land an interview? Review tips and tricks on how to best showcase yourself to employers by attending this professional development Q&A moderated by Viterbi Career Connection staff. Have your resume ready to take notes and make modifications in real time!  
    For more information about all workshops, please visit  viterbicareers.usc.edu/workshops.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 211

    Audiences: All Viterbi

    Contact: RTH 218 Viterbi Career Connections

    Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0pce2pqzkjHN0WEJgvAEytXoJsY2BgIrDa

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  • Repeating EventEiS Communications Hub Drop-In Hours

    Wed, Jan 17, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to stop by the EiS Communications Hub for one-on-one instruction for their academic and professional communications tasks. All instruction is provided by Viterbi faculty at the Engineering in Society Program.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A

    Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students

    View All Dates

    Contact: Helen Choi

    Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home?authuser=0

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  • Computer Science General Faculty Meeting

    Wed, Jan 17, 2024 @ 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM

    Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science

    Receptions & Special Events


    Bi-Weekly regular faculty meeting for invited full-time Computer Science faculty only. Event details emailed directly to attendees.

    Location: Hedco Neurosciences Building (HNB) - 107

    Audiences: Invited Faculty Only

    Contact: Assistant to CS Chair

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  • Trojan Talk with myUniMate - Campus Recruitment

    Wed, Jan 17, 2024 @ 03:00 PM - 03:45 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Career Connections

    Workshops & Infosessions


    myUniMate is an early-stage pioneering student engagement platform designed to redefine the college journey. We believe that the student should be at the core of every experience. myUniMate is challenging the limits of generative AI and machine learning, for students to maximize their academic, social and career aspects of their university adventure!  
     
    We are seeking enthusiastic individuals who are motivated by ambitious goals to fulfill our mission. Ideal candidates thrive in a startup atmosphere, where challenging and unsolved problems are abundant. We value team members who are keen to learn, grow, and engage in collaborative efforts.  
     
    Open opportunities (permanent, contract, internships) exist in software engineering and development, conversation experience, product design and development, data science, marketing and more.
     
    RSVP in ConnectSC events by clicking the “Attend” button  
     
    USC Virtual Career Session
    Wednesday, 17 January 2024 · 3:00 – 4:00 pm
    Video call link: https://meet.google.com/gsu-heea-sesOr dial: (US) 1 682-251-0844 PIN: 360 187 760

    Location: Virtual Event

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: RTH 218 Viterbi Career Connections

    Event Link: https://meet.google.com/gsu-heea-ses

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  • AME Seminar - CANCELLED

    Wed, Jan 17, 2024 @ 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM

    Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: Rahul Panat, Carnegie Mellon University

    Talk Title: Aerosol Jet Printed 3D Microarchitectures: From Process Development to Real-World Applications

    Abstract: Please note: This seminar has been cancelled.   

    Host: AME Department

    More Info: https://ame.usc.edu/seminars/

    Webcast: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95892885119?pwd=QXZOZUhrcTJRYk5qZzZwVThrTytVZz09

    Location: James H. Zumberge Hall Of Science (ZHS) - 252

    WebCast Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95892885119?pwd=QXZOZUhrcTJRYk5qZzZwVThrTytVZz09

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Tessa Yao

    Event Link: https://ame.usc.edu/seminars/

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  • A Guide to Viterbi Career Gateway: Your One-Stop Shop to Finding Jobs & Internships

    Thu, Jan 18, 2024 @ 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Career Connections

    Workshops & Infosessions


    THIS EVENT WILL BE HOSTED HYBRID: IN-PERSON & ONLINE SIMULTANEOUSLY
    Zoom link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIqf-ugrDkoGdRkOtjh88bYISlGKScEnOYz
    Take part in a live tutorial to help you navigate Viterbi Career Gateway, a powerful job and internship search tool available ONLY to Viterbi students. 
    To access more information on all workshops, please visit viterbicareers.usc.edu/workshops.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 211

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: RTH 218 Viterbi Career Connections

    Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIqf-ugrDkoGdRkOtjh88bYISlGKScEnOYz

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  • Repeating EventEiS Communications Hub Drop-In Hours

    Fri, Jan 19, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to stop by the EiS Communications Hub for one-on-one instruction for their academic and professional communications tasks. All instruction is provided by Viterbi faculty at the Engineering in Society Program.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A

    Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students

    View All Dates

    Contact: Helen Choi

    Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home?authuser=0

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  • Medical Imaging Seminar: Louai Al-Dayeh, PhD - Practical Aspects of MRI Safety Test Methods of Active Implants

    Fri, Jan 19, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 11:30 PM

    Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Since the first successful MRI safety labeling of an implanted Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) system approximately 20 years ago, active implantable medical device (AIMD) manufacturers have come a long way in designing their implants with MR safety in mind and in assessing what conditions of MR scanning (e.g., limits of RF and/or gradient) can allow MR imaging without compromising patient safety. MR Conditional implants undergo a wide range of well-developed test methods before receiving FDA approval under the specified conditions of use. These test methods include exposure in realistic MR imaging scanning environments, benchtop injection testing, and development of appropriate risk assessments though physical experiments and modeling. The seminar is an overview of the Practical Aspects of all MRI Safety Test Methods of active implants. 

    More Information: Louai Aldayeh_MHI-MISS.pdf

    Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 132

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Mary Yung

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  • ECE-EP Seminar - Jim Garrison - Friday, January 19th at 2pm in EEB 248

    Fri, Jan 19, 2024 @ 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM

    Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: Jim Garrison, Purdue University

    Talk Title: Advancing the science and technology of Signals of Opportunity (SoOp) remote sensing

    Series: ECE-EP Seminar

    Abstract: Signals of Opportunity (SoOp) is an emerging field in microwave remote sensing in which existing anthropogenic signals (typically from communications or navigation satellites) are re-utilized in a non-cooperative manner as sources of illumination for bistatic radar. SoOp observations exhibit some properties common to either active radar or passive radiometry, but also have unique features distinct from these two classical approaches.  Realizing the full potential of SoOp has required the development of new instruments, signal processing algorithms, geophysical model functions, and data assimilation methods.  This presentation will review the fundamental theoretical and experimental research conducted by Prof. Garrison's group in these areas. SoOp signal models must integrate communication theory with the interaction between electromagnetic waves and natural media.  Although many important geophysical variables measured by SoOp (e.g. ocean winds, soil moisture, and snow water equivalent) are the same as those observed by any other remote sensing technique, the basic electromagnetic quantities ("Level 1" data products) and their relationship to these geophysical variables are quite different.  Direct assimilation of Level 1 data into Earth systems models, without explicitly inverting this relationship, could potentially reduce biases and improve their use in forecasting. Terrestrial and airborne campaigns are vital to this research both in the development of empirical model functions using in situ reference data and in the early-stage testing and demonstration of new instrument technologies. This talk will also highlight some potential pathways from fundamental research to application of SoOp remote sensing in Earth science missions, using three examples covering different stages of technical maturity.  First, Global Navigation Satellite System Reflectometry (GNSS-R) is the most advanced SoOp technique. CYGNSS, launched in 2016, now has a large science community making use of various ocean, land and cryosphere variables extracted from its GNSS-R observations. Second, P-band (<400 MHz) communication signals exist in frequencies low enough to penetrate dense vegetation and soil, offering a capability for directly sensing Root-Zone Soil Moisture (RZSM).    Prof. Garrison is the principal investigator on SNOOPI (SigNals Of Opportunity: P-band Investigation), a cubesat mission to be launched in Spring 2024 to demonstrate this technique.  Finally, wide-band (~1GHz) communications signals in Ku-band (12-18 GHz) and higher can theoretically provide altimetry (sea surface height) at cm-level precision.  A constellation of passive SoOp receivers could be launched for a fraction of the cost of a single active radar altimeter. Such a constellation could provide high temporal sampling of inland lakes and rivers for streamflow and discharge monitoring, and better coverage of coastal regions to observe rapidly evolving oceanographic features such as eddies. 
    Prof. Garrison will conclude the talk with some speculative concepts and ideas for future research directions.

    Biography: James L Garrison received the B.S. degree from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA, the M.S. degree from Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA, and the Ph.D. degree from the University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA, in 1988, 1990, and 1997, respectively. He is a Professor with the School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA, with a courtesy appointment at the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. In 2022, he was elected a University Faculty Scholar. He made the first airborne measurements of ocean surface winds using reflected Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) signals in 1996 and continues to lead research in Earth remote sensing using signals of opportunity. He is the Principal Investigator for SNOOPI, a NASA mission to demonstrate remote sensing with P-band signals of opportunity. Prior to his academic position, he was with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Dr. Garrison is a fellow of both the Institute of Navigation (ION) and the IEEE. He served as Editor-in- Chief for the IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Magazine from 2018 to 2022. 

    Host: ECE-Electrophysics

    More Information: Jim Garrison Flyer.pdf

    Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 248

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Marilyn Poplawski

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  • PhD Dissertation Defense - Xuefeng Hu

    Fri, Jan 19, 2024 @ 03:00 PM - 05:00 PM

    Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science

    University Calendar


    PhD Dissertation Defense - Xuefeng Hu  
     
    Committee members: Ram Nevatia (chair), Aram Galstyan and Keith Jenkins  
     
    Title: Adapt Pre-trained Representation Towards Downstream Tasks  
     
    Abstract: In recent years, the field of computer vision and machine learning has witnessed a paradigm shift, characterized by a dramatic increase in the scale of model parameters and training data sizes. This evolution has led to significant enhancements in model accuracy and robustness, transcending the traditional, task-specific expert models. The field has now pivoted towards universal, large-scale pre-trained visual representations, which enables impressive zero-shot and few-shot solutions for a wide array of downstream tasks.    
     
    Despite these advancements, the application of pre-trained models to specific downstream tasks, each with their unique conditions and domain-specific challenges, often exposes inherent limitations. This dissertation aims to tackle these challenges. The research journey comprises a spectrum of approaches from fully-supervised to source-free and test-time adaptation, with diverse applications such as image classification, object detection, and forensic detection. This dissertation introduces novel architectures such as SPAN, which has pioneered the utilization of the self-attention mechanism in the field of computer vision, as well as innovative adaptation algorithms like ReCLIP and BaFTA, which enhance zero-shot classification performance with unsupervised vision-text alignment. This dissertation marks a transition from classic visual representations, like those used in ImageNet, to cutting-edge vision-language models like CLIP, and has overcome some of the most pressing challenges in the field.    
     
    The works of this dissertation play an important role in bridging the gap between generic visual representations and the specific, nuanced requirements of various real-world tasks. By doing so, it establishes new benchmarks in optimizing the performance of machine learning models in practical applications, reinforcing the role of advanced computational techniques in solving complex, real-world problems.
     
    Zoom Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95935934090?pwd=RTFNcUorbndkaXA2UGtFWWkrbEtsUT09 
    Meeting ID: 959 3593 4090
    Passcode: 442518
     

    Location: Henry Salvatori Computer Science Center (SAL) - 213

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: CS Events

    Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95935934090?pwd=RTFNcUorbndkaXA2UGtFWWkrbEtsUT09

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  • Repeating EventEiS Communications Hub Drop-In Hours

    Mon, Jan 22, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to stop by the EiS Communications Hub for one-on-one instruction for their academic and professional communications tasks. All instruction is provided by Viterbi faculty at the Engineering in Society Program.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A

    Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students

    View All Dates

    Contact: Helen Choi

    Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home?authuser=0

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  • How to Develop an Effective Resume and Cover Letter

    Mon, Jan 22, 2024 @ 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Career Connections

    Workshops & Infosessions


    THIS EVENT WILL BE HOSTED HYBRID: IN-PERSON & ONLINE SIMULTANEOUSLY Zoom link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJckduCpqDovGdOqWz4fEBHp2ZqY43aGiSQG Does your resume highlight the skills that will land an interview? Review tips and tricks on how to best showcase yourself to employers by attending this professional development Q&A moderated by Viterbi Career Connection staff. Have your resume ready to take notes and make modifications in real time!   For more information about all workshops, please visit  viterbicareers.usc.edu/workshops.  

    Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 132

    Audiences: All Viterbi

    Contact: RTH 218 Viterbi Career Connections

    Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJckduCpqDovGdOqWz4fEBHp2ZqY43aGiSQG

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  • Epstein Institute, ISE 651 Seminar Class

    Epstein Institute, ISE 651 Seminar Class

    Tue, Jan 23, 2024 @ 03:30 PM - 04:50 PM

    Daniel J. Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: Dr. Satish Kumar Thittamaranahalli (T. K. Satish Kumar), Collaboratory for Algorithmic Techniques and Artificial Intelligence, USC ISI; Research Associate Professor, Depts. of Epstein ISE, CS, and Physics and Astronomy, USC Viterbi

    Talk Title: Revisiting FastMap: New Applications

    Host: Dr. Yigal Arens

    More Information: January 23, 2024.pdf

    Location: Social Sciences Building (SOS) - SOS Building, B2

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Grace Owh

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  • Viterbi Employer Mock Interviews

    Wed, Jan 24, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Career Connections

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Interested in scheduling a mock interview with an employer 1:1? You will have the opportunity to practice your interviewing skills!
     
    Viterbi's Mock Interview Day provides students with a valuable opportunity to connect with Viterbi Alumni and industry experts, gain insight into potential employers and industries, and receive essential career advice.
     
    Mock Interview Day is designed to enhance your skills, boost your confidence, and equip you with the necessary tools to excel in future job interviews.
     
    Location: On-Campus
     
    Audience: All Viterbi Students
     
    For more information:
     
    https://viterbicareers.usc.edu/students/events/mock-interviews-student/

    Audiences: All Viterbi

    Contact: RTH 218 Viterbi Career Connections

    Event Link: https://viterbicareers.usc.edu/students/events/mock-interviews-student/

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  • Repeating EventEiS Communications Hub Drop-In Hours

    Wed, Jan 24, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to stop by the EiS Communications Hub for one-on-one instruction for their academic and professional communications tasks. All instruction is provided by Viterbi faculty at the Engineering in Society Program.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A

    Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students

    View All Dates

    Contact: Helen Choi

    Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home?authuser=0

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  • PhD Thesis Defense - Jiao Sun

    Wed, Jan 24, 2024 @ 11:00 AM - 01:30 PM

    Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science

    University Calendar


    PhD Thesis Defense - Jiao Sun  
     
    Committee members: Xuezhe (Max) Ma (Chair), Nanyun (Violet) Peng, Johnathan May, Emilio Ferrara, Dan O’Leary  
     
    Title: Emphasizing the Importance of Data and Evaluation in the Era of Large language Models  
     
    Abstract: Large-scale models have marked the beginning of a new era, significantly transforming language understanding, text and image generation, and complex decision-making tasks. For example, they may perpetuate stereotypes or produce misleading information. Nevertheless, due to the limitations of existing evaluation methods, these problems are often overlooked. My research highlights the imperative need for more careful and nuanced model evaluation and assessment. Upon investigation, large models may have generated biased or inappropriate content due to inadequacies in their training data. Identified through trustworthy evaluation methods, I address these challenges with a focus on aligning large models with human intentions from a data-centric perspective. 

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 306

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: CS Events

    Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/my/jiaosun

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  • PhD Thesis Proposal - Haowen Lin

    Wed, Jan 24, 2024 @ 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM

    Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science

    University Calendar


    Committee: Cyrus Shahabi (Chair), Bistra Dilkina, Muhao Chen, Xiong Li, Marlon Boarnet
     
    Title: Accurate and controllable trajectory generation  
     
    Abstract : In various application domains like transportation, urban planning, and public health, analyzing human mobility, represented as a sequence of consecutive visits (aka trajectories), is crucial for uncovering essential mobility patterns. Due to privacy and commercial concerns, real-world trajectories are not readily available, giving rise to an important research area of generating synthetic but realistic trajectories. This thesis addresses the challenge of trajectory generation using data-driven approaches, integrating both explicit and implicit constraints within a continuous spatiotemporal domain. First, I present a framework based on generative adversarial imitation learning that synthesizes realistic trajectories that preserve moving behavior patterns (.g., work commute, shopping purpose) in real data. Next, I explore the hypothesis that grouping trajectories governed by similar dynamics into clusters before trajectory modeling could enhance modeling effectiveness. I present a framework that can simultaneously model trajectories in continuous space and time  while clustering them. Finally, we discuss the proposed work that will incorporate explicit spatial and temporal constraints that will potentially generate more representative and realistic trajectories.  
     
    Zoom link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95828555243

    Location: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95828555243

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: CS Events

    Event Link: zoom link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95828555243

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  • AME Seminar

    Wed, Jan 24, 2024 @ 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM

    Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: Grace Gao, Stanford University

    Talk Title: Robust Autonomous Vehicle Localization using GPS: from Tandem Drifting Cars to GPS on the Moon

    Abstract: Autonomous vehicles often operate in complex environments with various sensing uncertainties. On Earth, GPS signals can be blocked or reflected by buildings; and camera measurements are susceptible to lighting conditions. While having a variety of sensors is beneficial, including more sensing information can introduce more sensing failures as well as more computational load. For space applications, such as localization on the Moon, it can be even more challenging. In this talk, I will present our recent research efforts on robust vehicle localization under sensing uncertainties. We turn sensing noise and even absence of sensing into useful navigational signals. Inspired by cognitive attention in humans, we select a subset of “attention landmarks” from sensing measurements to reduce computation load and provide robust positioning. I will also show our localization techniques that enable various applications, from autonomous tandem drifting cars to a GPS-like system for the Moon.

    Biography: Grace X. Gao is an assistant professor in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at Stanford University. She leads the Navigation and Autonomous Vehicles Laboratory (NAV Lab). Prof. Gao has won a number of awards, including the National Science Foundation CAREER Award, the Institute of Navigation Early Achievement Award and the RTCA William E. Jackson Award. Prof. Gao and her students won Best Presentation of the Session/Best Paper Awards 29 times at Institute of Navigation conferences over the past 17 years. She also won various teaching and advising awards, including the Illinois College of Engineering Everitt Award for Teaching Excellence, the Engineering Council Award for Excellence in Advising, AIAA Illinois Chapter’s Teacher of the Year, and most recently Advisor of the Year Award and Teacher of the Year Award by AIAA Stanford Chapter in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

    Host: AME Department

    More Info: https://ame.usc.edu/seminars/

    Webcast: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95892885119?pwd=QXZOZUhrcTJRYk5qZzZwVThrTytVZz09

    Location: James H. Zumberge Hall Of Science (ZHS) - 252

    WebCast Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95892885119?pwd=QXZOZUhrcTJRYk5qZzZwVThrTytVZz09

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Tessa Yao

    Event Link: https://ame.usc.edu/seminars/

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  • Find Your Dream Job or Internship

    Thu, Jan 25, 2024 @ 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Career Connections

    Workshops & Infosessions


    THIS EVENT WILL BE HOSTED HYBRID: IN-PERSON & ONLINE SIMULTANEOUSLY
    Zoom link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUtcOCvrTspGtcssfqIP6dcxv6BOdK-CIUS
    Increase your knowledge on the job/internship search by attending this professional development Q&A moderated by Viterbi Career Connections staff or Viterbi employer partners.
    For more information about all workshops, please visit viterbicareers.usc.edu/workshops.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 211

    Audiences: All Viterbi

    Contact: RTH 218 Viterbi Career Connections

    Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUtcOCvrTspGtcssfqIP6dcxv6BOdK-CIUS

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  • WIE Spring Launch

    Thu, Jan 25, 2024 @ 05:30 PM - 07:00 PM

    USC Viterbi School of Engineering

    Student Activity


    Women in Engineering welcomes our Spring 2024 new women and non-binary students. Join us for some food and a fun time to meet new friends!

    Location: Sign into EngageSC to View Location

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Thelma Federico Zaragoza

    Event Link: https://engage.usc.edu/WIE/rsvp?id=394090

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  • Repeating EventEiS Communications Hub Drop-In Hours

    Fri, Jan 26, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to stop by the EiS Communications Hub for one-on-one instruction for their academic and professional communications tasks. All instruction is provided by Viterbi faculty at the Engineering in Society Program.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A

    Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students

    View All Dates

    Contact: Helen Choi

    Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home?authuser=0

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  • Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering

    Fri, Jan 26, 2024 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

    Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: Yong Chen, Professor of Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering

    Talk Title: 3D Printing of Multi-scale, Multi-material, and Multi-functional Structures and Devices for Biomedical Engineers

    Abstract: Three-dimensional 3D printing technology has seen significant developments, expanding its impact across various sectors, such as the biomedical and dental fields, due to its unique ability to create products tailored to individual requirements. This talk will report some of our recent work on developing new multi-scale, multi-material, and multi-functional 3D printing processes to fabricate structures and devices that may enhance biomedical research and foster collaborative efforts. After a brief overview of the development and limits of current 3D printing technology, I will present several additive manufacturing AM processes developed at our lab to fabricate complex reinforcement architectures, functional surfaces, and smart devices. Some novel designs and promising applications enabled by the 3D-printed structures will also be discussed. The talk will conclude with remarks and thoughts on future 3D printing advancements and fabrication capabilities that may benefit Biomedical Engineering researchers.
     

    Biography: Dr. Yong Chen is a professor of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering and Industrial and Systems Engineering at the University of Southern California (USC). His research focuses on additive manufacturing (3D printing) and related modeling, control, material, and application. He has published 1 edited book, 4 book chapters, and nearly 200 publications in refereed journals and conferences, as well as 19 issued and pending U.S. patents. His work has been recognized by over 15 Best/Outstanding Paper Awards in major design and manufacturing conferences and research journals. Other major awards he received include the NSF CAREER Award, USC’s Innovation Commercialization Awards, and invitations to the National Academy of Engineering Frontiers of Engineering Symposiums. Dr. Chen is a Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). He has served as conference/program chair and keynote speaker at several international design and manufacturing conferences. At USC, Dr. Chen teaches design and manufacturing-related courses to undergraduate and graduate students and helps students and collaborators create four startup companies related to 3D printing.
     

    Host: Maral Mousavi

    Location: 100 B

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Carla Stanard

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  • Repeating EventEiS Communications Hub Drop-In Hours

    Mon, Jan 29, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to stop by the EiS Communications Hub for one-on-one instruction for their academic and professional communications tasks. All instruction is provided by Viterbi faculty at the Engineering in Society Program.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A

    Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students

    View All Dates

    Contact: Helen Choi

    Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home?authuser=0

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  • CSC/CommNetS-MHI Seminar: Eva Kanso

    CSC/CommNetS-MHI Seminar: Eva Kanso

    Mon, Jan 29, 2024 @ 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM

    Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: Dr. Eva Kanso, Professor of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering | Professor of Physics and Astronomy | University of Southern California

    Talk Title: Insights into physical intelligence from individual and collective animal behavior

    Series: CSC/CommNetS-MHI Seminar Series

    Abstract:


    I will discuss three problems inspired by Nature: (i) the snap-through instability utilized in plants and animals to generate rapid motions accompanied by a release of elastically- stored energy; (ii) synchrony and biological functions of cilia beating in human tissues; and (iii) spontaneous transitions in the emergent collective phases in fish schools. From these examples, I will draw and discuss three paradigms of “mechanical intelligence” that may be incorporated in the design of engineered systems.




    Biography:


    Eva Kanso is a Professor in the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering and the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Southern California, where she also holds the named chair “Z. H. Kaprielian Fellow in Engineering”". Kanso earned PhD and Masters degrees in Mechanical Engineering (1999, 2003) and Applied Mathematics (2002) from UC Berkeley, followed by a post-doctoral training at Caltech (2003-2005). She served as a Program Director at the National Science Foundation (2021-2023). Kanso's research focuses on studying fundamental problems in the biophysics of cellular and subcellular processes and the physics of animal behavior, both at the individual and collective levels. A central theme in her work is the role of the mechanical environment, specifically the fluid medium and fluid-structure interactions, in shaping and driving biological functions.




    Host: Dr. Mihailo Jovanovic

    More Information: 2024.01.29 Seminar - Eva Kanso.pdf

    Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - EEB 132

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Miki Arlen

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  • How to Develop an Effective Resume and Cover Letter

    Tue, Jan 30, 2024 @ 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Career Connections

    Workshops & Infosessions


    THIS EVENT WILL BE HOSTED HYBRID: IN-PERSON & ONLINE SIMULTANEOUSLY
    Zoom link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwod-qgqj4rHNzPd-Bs-MCcxUijIGkQwc3K
    Does your resume highlight the skills that will land an interview? Review tips and tricks on how to best showcase yourself to employers by attending this professional development Q&A moderated by Viterbi Career Connection staff. Have your resume ready to take notes and make modifications in real time!  
    For more information about all workshops, please visit  viterbicareers.usc.edu/workshops.

    Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 132

    Audiences: All Viterbi

    Contact: RTH 218 Viterbi Career Connections

    Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwod-qgqj4rHNzPd-Bs-MCcxUijIGkQwc3K

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  • Epstein Institute, ISE 651 Seminar Class

    Epstein Institute, ISE 651 Seminar Class

    Tue, Jan 30, 2024 @ 03:30 PM - 04:50 PM

    Daniel J. Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: Dr. David E. Bernal Neira, Assistant Professor Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University

    Talk Title: Discrete Nonlinear Optimization: Modeling and Solutions Via Novel Hardware and Decomposition Algorithms

    Host: Dr. Andres Gomez

    More Information: January 30, 2024.pdf

    Location: Social Sciences Building (SOS) - SOS Building, B2

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Grace Owh

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  • MFD Spring Seminars- Distinguished Lecture Series

    MFD Spring Seminars- Distinguished Lecture Series

    Tue, Jan 30, 2024 @ 04:00 PM - 05:20 PM

    Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: David Muller , Cornell University

    Talk Title: A new way to image atoms

    Abstract: Electron microscopes use electrons with wavelengths of a few picometers and are potentially capable of imaging individual atoms in solids at a resolution ultimately set by the intrinsic size of an atom. Until very recently, the best resolution was more than an order magnitude worse than this. This was caused by two things – first the intrinsic aberrations in electron lenses are much worse than for optical lenses – it would be like trying to use a beer bottle as a magnifying glass. Second, electrons are multiply scattered inside the sample – a process described by Hans Bethe over 90 years ago. It’s been a headache for electron microscopists ever since, but with our recent advances in detector technology and ptychographic reconstruction algorithms, the resolution of the electron microscope is now limited only by the dose to the sample, and thermal vibrations of the atoms themselves [1]. These approaches have also allowed us to image the internal structures of both magnetic and ferroelectric vortices, skyrmions and merons, including their singular points that are critical for accurately describing the topological properties of these field textures. The reduced sensitivity to chromatic aberrations also makes these ptychographic approaches of interest for thick biological samples such as 3D reconstructions of whole cells.

    Host: Mork Family Department

    Location: James H. Zumberge Hall Of Science (ZHS) - 252

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Monique Garcia

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  • DEN@Viterbi: How to Apply Virtual Info Session

    Tue, Jan 30, 2024 @ 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM

    DEN@Viterbi, Viterbi School of Engineering Graduate Admission

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Join USC Viterbi representatives for a step-by-step guide and tips for how to apply for formal admission into a Master's degree or Graduate Certificate program. The session is intended for individuals who wish to pursue a graduate degree program completely online via USC Viterbi's flexible online DEN@Viterbi delivery method. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect directly with USC Viterbi representatives and ask questions about the admission process throughout the session. 

    WebCast Link: https://uscviterbi.webex.com/weblink/register/rc0e92dfc7c31f0a384044a1697dd47d4

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Corporate & Professional Programs

    Event Link: https://uscviterbi.webex.com/weblink/register/rc0e92dfc7c31f0a384044a1697dd47d4

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  • Trojan Talk with Veeva Systems

    Tue, Jan 30, 2024 @ 05:00 PM - 06:30 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Career Connections

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Location: Gwynn Wilson Student Union (STU) - B3

    Audiences: All Viterbi

    Contact: RTH 218 Viterbi Career Connections

    Event Link: https://careers.usc.edu/events/2024/01/30/trojan-talk-with-veeva-systems/

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  • Bloomberg Engineering Competition

    Tue, Jan 30, 2024 @ 05:30 PM - 09:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Career Connections

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Join Bloomberg Engineering for a competition in which teams of four use creativity, lateral thinking, and teamwork to solve logic puzzles. The winning team will compete in our global competition in NYC this spring!  
     
    BPuzzled by Bloomberg
    Tuesday, January 30 5:30 – 9:00 pm
    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall Room 211 
    Please bring your laptop and charger. Dinner provided.  
     
    Video instructions on team creation and event: http://puzl.ink/howto Audience: Computer Science majors, undergraduate students      

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 211

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: RTH 218 Viterbi Career Connections

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  • Repeating EventEiS Communications Hub Drop-In Hours

    Wed, Jan 31, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs

    Workshops & Infosessions


    Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to stop by the EiS Communications Hub for one-on-one instruction for their academic and professional communications tasks. All instruction is provided by Viterbi faculty at the Engineering in Society Program.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A

    Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students

    View All Dates

    Contact: Helen Choi

    Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home?authuser=0

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  • Computer Science General Faculty Meeting

    Wed, Jan 31, 2024 @ 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM

    Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science

    Receptions & Special Events


    Bi-Weekly regular faculty meeting for invited full-time Computer Science faculty only. Event details emailed directly to attendees.

    Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 526

    Audiences: Invited Faculty Only

    Contact: Assistant to CS Chair

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  • CCI, AAI, and MHI Joint Seminar Series - Baxi Chong (Georgia Tech): Gait coding scheme for multi-legged robots

    Wed, Jan 31, 2024 @ 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM

    Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: Baxi Chong, Georgia Tech

    Talk Title: Gait coding scheme for multi-legged robots

    Abstract: While the transport of matter by wheeled vehicles or legged robots can be guaranteed in engineered landscapes like roads or rails, locomotion prediction in complex environments like collapsed buildings or crop fields remains challenging. Inspired by principles of information transmission which allow signals to be reliably transmitted over noisy channels, we develop a “matter transport" framework demonstrating that non-inertial locomotion can be provably generated over “noisy" rugose landscapes (heterogeneities on the scale of locomotor dimensions). Experiments confirm that sufficient spatial redundancy in the form of seriallyconnected legged robots leads to reliable transport on such terrain without requiring sensing and control.  
     
    Despite robustness, locomotors with excessively redundant legs are often practically unfavored because of limited efficiency and applicability. Analogous to signal transmission, we further improve locomotion efficiency by properly coordinating (coding) the redundant legs. The challenges of such coding partially lie on the high dimensionality associated with the additional legs and the emergent importance of inter-leg centralized coordination. Specifically, we need a top-down approach to analyze the central coordination among the additional legs, and further design how it should adapt to different environments. We use geometric mechanics, a mathematical framework for studying locomotion in various systems, for motion planning in multi-legged robots operating in complex environments. As a result, open-loop operation on multi-legged robots achieves remarkable performance on terrains with different types and levels of complexity. Additionally, analogies from communication theory coupled to advances in coding for error detection/correction further improve the locomotion efficiency and robustness via centralized adaptation (using simple contact sensors to estimate environmental uncertainty). This research contributes to the field of legged robot locomotion, providing new possibilities for designing effective and adaptable robots for challenging environments.  
     
    This lecture satisfies requirements for CSCI 591: Research Colloquium  
     
    Zoom Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/98624281836?pwd=ajJSWGRvbkRpUVgvRC9nOXd5K29TZz09  
     
    Meeting ID: 986 2428 1836 Passcode: CPS24

    Biography: Dr. Baxi Chong is a postdoctoral fellow at the CRAB (Complex Rheology And Biomechanics) Lab in the School of Physics at Georgia Tech. His research focuses on locomotion, aiming to diversify robot morphology with reference to evolutionary biology. Dr. Chong has contributed to high-impact journals and conferences such as Science, PNAS, IJRR, and RSS. Additionally, he actively serves as a reviewer for robotics conferences and journals, including ICRA, IROS, IJRR, and TRO. Dr. Chong obtained his Ph.D. from Georgia Tech and his Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Hong Kong.

    Host: Pierluigi Nuzzo and Feifei Qian

    More Info: https://usc.zoom.us/j/98624281836?pwd=ajJSWGRvbkRpUVgvRC9nOXd5K29TZz09

    Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 248

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: CS Events

    Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/98624281836?pwd=ajJSWGRvbkRpUVgvRC9nOXd5K29TZz09

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  • Where are the Jobs? Uncovering the Hidden Job Market

    Wed, Jan 31, 2024 @ 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM

    Viterbi School of Engineering Career Connections

    Workshops & Infosessions


      THIS EVENT WILL BE HOSTED HYBRID: IN-PERSON & ONLINE SIMULTANEOUSLY Zoom link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYsd-quqzsoH9Up_tqxCoIfpoUYcnJDGssj Increase your career and internship knowledge on networking by attending this professional development Q&A moderated by Viterbi Career Connections staff. For more information about all workshops, please visit viterbicareers.usc.edu/workshops.

    Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 132

    Audiences: All Viterbi

    Contact: RTH 218 Viterbi Career Connections

    Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYsd-quqzsoH9Up_tqxCoIfpoUYcnJDGssj

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  • AME Seminar

    Wed, Jan 31, 2024 @ 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM

    Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering

    Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars


    Speaker: Rui (Ray) Xu , Stanford University

    Talk Title: Enabling Sustainable Propulsion and Clean Energy Transitions: Reacting Flow Modeling across molecular to continuum scales

    Abstract: While the global demand for air travel continues to rise, the aerospace carbon footprint is increasingly concerning. In the near term, it is highly desirable for the rational design, efficient certification, and massive production of carbon-neutral fuels to mitigate greenhouse emissions. Furthermore, future aerospace vehicles will be integrated with highly efficient and high-speed propulsion devices using clean and renewable energy sources. The design of these sustainable and high-speed propulsion systems requires a fundamental understanding of reacting flow physics across multiple scales, featuring interactions between the molecular and the continuum flow scale.
    In this talk, I will present state-of-the-art approaches to multiscale reacting flow modeling of sustainable aerospace energy carriers. The modeling spans from molecular scale using GPU-enabled quantum chemistry computation to continuum scale gas dynamics and turbulence-resolved flow modeling. I will first emphasize the reacting flow modeling of bio-derived sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which is considered a near-term alternative to conventional jet fuels. I will then discuss the study of methane and natural gas as potential transition fuels, along with hydrogen and battery technologies for the long-term future. I envision that the presented approach will help not only to enable sustainable aviation but also to advance a clean and sustainable transition in the future energy landscape.

    Biography: Rui (Ray) Xu is a Postdoctoral Scholar in the Department of Chemistry at Stanford University and the PULSE Institute in the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. His research centers around multiscale reacting flow modeling to enable sustainable aerospace propulsion and clean energy transitions. Dr. Xu obtained his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University, his M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University, and his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Shanghai Jiao Tong University. He is the recipient of the ACS Wiley Computers in Chemistry Outstanding Postdoc Award in 2024 and the ACTC AFOSR Scholar Award in 2022.

    More Info: https://ame.usc.edu/seminars/

    Webcast: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95892885119?pwd=QXZOZUhrcTJRYk5qZzZwVThrTytVZz09

    Location: James H. Zumberge Hall Of Science (ZHS) - 252

    WebCast Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/95892885119?pwd=QXZOZUhrcTJRYk5qZzZwVThrTytVZz09

    Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

    Contact: Tessa Yao

    Event Link: https://ame.usc.edu/seminars/

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