Select a calendar:
Filter March Events by Event Type:
Events for the 3rd week of March
-
EiS Communications Hub - Tutoring for Engineering Ph.D. StudentsMon, Mar 10, 2025 @ 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs
Workshops & Infosessions
Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to drop by the Hub for instruction on their writing and speaking tasks! All tutoring is one-on-one and conducted by Viterbi faculty.
Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A
Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students
Contact: Helen Choi
Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
Technology for Business Leaders
Mon, Mar 10, 2025 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Executive Education
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Dr. Bhaskar Krishnamachari, Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Talk Title: Technology for Business Leaders
Abstract: Technology for Business Leaders provides a comprehensive exploration of digital transformation and its impact on contemporary business landscapes. Through a series of structured modules, participants will delve into the core concepts of Digital Technologies, Industry 4.0, Innovation, and Organizational Change management. By analyzing case studies and leveraging practical frameworks, learners will develop the necessary insights and skills to drive successful digital transitions within their organizations.
Host: USC Viterbi Corporate and Professional Programs
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: VASE Executive Education
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
"Keys to Life" series at USC ORSL
Mon, Mar 10, 2025 @ 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
USC Viterbi School of Engineering
University Calendar
"Keys to Life" with Prof. Weiss is a motivational discussion series designed to promote student success and well-being. This series is for students who want to develop their "keys" in a small group setting and a peaceful, reflective environment. Finding purpose is essential to living a meaningful life and key to personal fulfillment. This series will help students identify and articulate their purpose and provide group motivation to work towards it. A unique feature of the series will be its peripatetic "Purpose Walks" through campus.
More Information: Keys to Life with Prof. Weiss.jpg
Location: University Religious Center (URC) - courtyard
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Elisabeth Arnold Weiss
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
Alfred E.Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering - Seminar series
Tue, Mar 11, 2025 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Feng Guo, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Intelligent Systems Engineering- Indiana University Bloomington
Talk Title: Brain Organoid computing for Sustainable AI and Medicine
Abstract: The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming our daily lives. However, current silicon-based AI computing devices face growing sustainability challenges. Running generative AI models (e.g., ChatGPT) demands significant computational power, generates excessive heat—requiring substantial cooling resources, and contributes to tremendous carbon emissions. Moreover, the massive manufacturing of silico-based computing chips also costs significant non-renewable sources. To address these issues, neuromorphic devices and systems, inspired by the structure and function of the human brain, are under active development. One promising neuromorphic approach involves utilizing human brain organoids, 3D brain-like tissues derived from pluripotent stem cells. These organoids demonstrate remarkable potential to mimic human brain information processing for sustainable AI and medical applications. However, challenges remain in fully harnessing their capabilities. Our research group has been exploring this new research area—brain organoid computing. In this talk, we will present our latest advancements in developing brain organoid hardware for real-world computing tasks such as speech recognition, equation prediction, and robotic decision-making with unique features including low energy consumption, fast learning, and renewability. Additionally, we will highlight leveraging organoid neural networks for functional phenotyping of neural disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, reading disorders, substance use disorders, etc. We believe this innovative approach can provide new insights into AI computing, brain-machine interfaces, and translational medicine while fostering a deeper understanding of the synergy between AI and natural intelligence.
Biography: Dr. Feng Guo is an Associated Professor of Intelligent Systems Engineering at Indiana University Bloomington (IUB). Before joining IUB in 2017, he received his Ph.D. in Engineering Science and Mechanics at Penn State and his postdoc training at Stanford University School of Medicine. His group is developing intelligent medical devices, sensors, and systems with the support of multiple NIH and NSF awards. He is a recipient of the NIH Director's New Innovator Award, the Outstanding Junior Faculty Award at IU, Early Career Award at Penn State, the Dean Postdoctoral Fellowship at Stanford School of Medicine, etc.
Host: Qifa Zhou
Location: Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience (MCB) - 102
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Carla Stanard
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
Technology for Business Leaders
Tue, Mar 11, 2025 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Executive Education
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Dr. Bhaskar Krishnamachari, Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Talk Title: Technology for Business Leaders
Abstract: Technology for Business Leaders provides a comprehensive exploration of digital transformation and its impact on contemporary business landscapes. Through a series of structured modules, participants will delve into the core concepts of Digital Technologies, Industry 4.0, Innovation, and Organizational Change management. By analyzing case studies and leveraging practical frameworks, learners will develop the necessary insights and skills to drive successful digital transitions within their organizations.
Host: USC Viterbi Corporate and Professional Programs
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: VASE Executive Education
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
Epstein Institute, ISE 651 Seminar Class
Tue, Mar 11, 2025 @ 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM
Daniel J. Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Dr. James Kong, Ralph H. Bogle Professor at Virginia Tech, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering
Host: Dr. Qiang Huang
More Information: FLYER 651 James Kong 3.11.25.png
Location: Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center (GER) - 206
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Casi Jones/ ISE
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
ISI Cloudwalkers Movie Screening
Tue, Mar 11, 2025 @ 03:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Information Sciences Institute
Receptions & Special Events
Join us for an exclusive private screening of Cloudwalkers, a groundbreaking documentary that tells the story of USC Viterbi Information Sciences Institute (ISI) and the visionary pioneers who have created our modern digital world. This special event is more than just a film—it’s a chance to reconnect with the legacy of ISI and engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the future of science, technology, and research.
A Conversation with Pioneers
Following the screening, we invite you to stay for a dynamic panel discussion with some of ISI’s most influential minds:
Vint Cerf – Internet pioneer, co-creator of TCP/IP - participating via livestream
Paul Mockapetris – Inventor of the Domain Name System (DNS)
Eve Schooler – IoT pioneer, co-creator of streaming protocols
Kevin Knight – AI & machine translation pioneer
Steve Crago – Microelectronics & high-performance computing leader
These trailblazers have not only shaped the digital age but continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible. This is your chance to hear their insights, ask questions, and be part of a conversation about the future of technology and research.
Why Attend?
Exclusive Access – Be among the first to see this highly anticipated documentary.
Engage with Visionaries – Participate in a live discussion with industry pioneers.
Reconnect with ISI – Network with leading experts in the field.
This is a one-night-only event with limited seating, so be sure to RSVP today and secure your place at this extraordinary gathering.
Agenda
3:30 PM - Check in
4 PM - An exclusive private screening of the ISI documentary “Cloudwalkers”
We will start the evening with a private screening of the documentary "Cloudwalkers: ISI and the Inventors of the Future". The film draws the arc of innovations that have come out of ISI during the last five decades. Written and directed by Emmy award-winning filmmaker Daniel Druhora, it includes numerous interviews with current and past ISI researchers. For more details on the documentary, please visit www.cloudwalkersfilm.com.
5 PM - A conversation with pioneers
We will then be joined remotely by Vint Cerf, internet pioneer and long-time collaborator of ISI, who will give a few brief perspective about the institute. Following this, a panel will discuss new directions that are emerging in AI, networking, microelectronics, and quantum information sciences. Daniel Druhora will moderate, and will be joined by Steve Crago (ISI’s Associate Director leading a rebirth in microelectronics) and Kevin Knight (AI trailblazer whose ISI team architected game-changing paradigm shifts in automated language translation) Paul Mockapetris (who invented the Domain Name System while at ISI, and narrated the documentary), and Eve Schooler (who pioneered Internet standards for multimedia and distributed computing at ISI).
6 PM - Immerse yourself in the future of information sciences
The evening will include a networking event hosted by Craig Knoblock, ISI Executive Director, who will introduce major new initiatives at ISI that will be shown in more detail in a poster session. This will be a unique opportunity for one-on-one interactions and deeper discussions with current ISI researchers and students about how ISI is reimagining the future.
We look forward to seeing you at this event!
RSVP
Location: Ginsburg Hall
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Jessica Madrigal/Viterbi ISI
Event Link: https://www.isi.edu/special-events/cloudwalkers/
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
EiS Communications Hub - Tutoring for Engineering Ph.D. Students
Wed, Mar 12, 2025 @ 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs
Workshops & Infosessions
Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to drop by the Hub for instruction on their writing and speaking tasks! All tutoring is one-on-one and conducted by Viterbi faculty.
Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A
Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students
Contact: Helen Choi
Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
CS Colloquium: Stephen Tu (USC / ECE) - On the Effectiveness of Generative Modeling for Planning and Control
Wed, Mar 12, 2025 @ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Stephen Tu, USC / ECE
Talk Title: On the Effectiveness of Generative Modeling for Planning and Control
Abstract: Recent work has demonstrated that modern generative models—including diffusion models and flow matching methods—are a powerful tool for both representing control policies and also designing planning and control algorithms. However, despite strong empirical results, there is a lack of rigorous understanding for why these models work so well in very high-dimensional, autoregressive settings, and surprisingly do not seem to suffer from classic “curse of dimensionality” sample complexity barriers. In this talk, we will shed some light on this phenomenon. First, we will show that shallow diffusion networks can be sample-efficiently learned in the presence of simple latent low-dimensional structures: the intrinsic dimension of the underlying distribution governs the sample complexity, rather than the ambient dimensionality of the problem. Second, we will show that diffusion/flow-matching models and losses are not necessary for learning performant policies in control tasks, and we can actually achieve similar performance using classic energy-based models trained with ranking noise-contrastive estimation—the latter which we prove is nearly asymptotically optimal. We will conclude with some exciting future directions for further investigation into the interplay between generative modeling, controls, and learning.
This lecture satisfies requirements for CSCI 591: Research Colloquium
Biography: Stephen Tu is an assistant professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Southern California, where he leads the Statistical Learning for Dynamics and Control group. His research interests span statistical learning theory, safe and optimal control, and robot learning. More specifically, his work has focused on non-asymptotic guarantees for learning dynamical systems, rigorous analysis of distribution shift in feedback settings, safe control synthesis, and more recently foundations of generative modeling. Stephen Tu earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS) from the University of California, Berkeley. Previous to joining USC, Stephen Tu was a research scientist at Google DeepMind Robotics where he focused on combining learning and control-theoretic approaches for robotics.
Host: CS Department
Location: Olin Hall of Engineering (OHE) - 132
Audiences: Everyone (USC) is invited
Contact: CS Faculty Affairs
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
Semiconductors and Microelectronics Technology Seminar - Omer Yaffe, Wednesday, March 12th at 10am in EEB 132
Wed, Mar 12, 2025 @ 10:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Omer Yaffe, Department of Chemical and Biological Physics Weizmann Institute of Science
Talk Title: Anharmonic Vibrational Dynamics in Crystals: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How Raman Spectroscopy Uncovers It
Series: Semiconductors & Microelectronics Technology
Abstract: Anharmonic vibrational dynamics play a crucial role in determining the physical properties of crystalline materials, impacting thermal conductivity, phase transitions, ion transport, and optoelectronic behavior.In this talk, I will present an intuitive framework for understanding anharmonicity and demonstrate how Raman spectroscopy, combined with coupled mode models, provides a powerful tool for probing these dynamics. I will illustrate this approach through three case studies: (1) the temperature evolution of hydrogen-bond vibrations in glycine crystals, (2) soft modes and phase transitions in bismuth vanadate, and (3) electron-phonon coupling in heavily doped silicon.A key takeaway from this analysis is that modeling with coupled mode pairs, rather than a single damped oscillator, effectively captures material behavior, bridging equilibrium and non-equilibrium dynamics and providing deeper insight into complex vibrational interactions in crystals.
Biography: Omer Yaffe is an Associate Professor at the Weizmann Institute of Science, where he leads a research group focused on anharmonic lattice dynamics. His work combines experimental techniques, particularly advanced Raman spectroscopy, with theoretical modeling to explore how lattice vibrations influence charge transport, phase transitions, and ion conduction.
Host: Jayakanth Ravichandran, Joshua Yang, Chongwu Zhou, Steve Cronin and Wei Wu
More Information: Omer Yaffe_2025-03-12.pdf
Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 132
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Marilyn Poplawski
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
Technology for Business Leaders
Wed, Mar 12, 2025 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Executive Education
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Dr. Bhaskar Krishnamachari, Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Talk Title: Technology for Business Leaders
Abstract: Technology for Business Leaders provides a comprehensive exploration of digital transformation and its impact on contemporary business landscapes. Through a series of structured modules, participants will delve into the core concepts of Digital Technologies, Industry 4.0, Innovation, and Organizational Change management. By analyzing case studies and leveraging practical frameworks, learners will develop the necessary insights and skills to drive successful digital transitions within their organizations.
Host: USC Viterbi Corporate and Professional Programs
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: VASE Executive Education
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
Computer Science General Faculty Meeting
Wed, Mar 12, 2025 @ 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 and staff only. Event details and Zoom link emailed directly to attendees.
Location: Zoom Only
Audiences: Invited Faculty Only
Contact: Julia Mittenberg-Beirao
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
AME Seminar
Wed, Mar 12, 2025 @ 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM
Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Mohand Saed, University of Cambridge, UK
Talk Title: Liquid Crystalline Elastomers for Reversible Actuation and Energy Dissipation
Abstract: Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) are a versatile class of functional materials exhibiting exceptional properties, including large-stroke reversible actuation, anomalous mechanical energy damping, and reversible pressure-sensitive adhesion. A defining feature of LCEs is their soft elasticity, characterized by a plateau of low, nearly constant stress during stretching, slow stress relaxation, and enhanced surface adhesion. This presentation explores the potential of LCEs in actuator applications and highlights their intrinsic energy dissipation mechanisms, particularly in reversible adhesion and vibration damping.
Biography: Dr. Saed is a University Royal Society Fellow and a group leader at the Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, specializing in smart, sustainable, and stimuli-responsive polymers. His research spans new material design, additive manufacturing, vitrimers, adhesives, and liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs).
Over a decade-long academic career, Dr. Saed has made pioneering contributions to polymer science. During his PhD at the University of Colorado, he played a crucial role in overcoming synthesis challenges in LCEs, introducing click chemistry for scalable production. His dissertation led to seven publications and a US patent, revolutionizing the field.
As a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Texas, he expanded into 3D printing and microfabrication, developing a 4D printing technique for LCEs, now widely adopted. This work resulted in three papers and another US patent.
At Cambridge, Dr. Saed has published over 30 original papers, filed four patents, and secured over £2 million in research funding. He co-founded Cambridge Smart Plastics Ltd, serving as Chief Technical Officer, to commercialize vitrimer technologies developed during his tenure.
As of March 2025, he has 43 original papers, 6 patents (3 granted, 3 filed), 2,900 citations, and an H-index of 26. His research is featured in leading journals such as Chemical Reviews, Nature Communications, and Advanced Materials.
Host: AME Department
More Info: https://ame.usc.edu/seminars/
Webcast: https://usc.zoom.us/j/96060458816?pwd=8LmoG2q6vBCQubqqWpcizd2F1bxqsH.1Location: James H. Zumberge Hall Of Science (ZHS) - 252
WebCast Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/96060458816?pwd=8LmoG2q6vBCQubqqWpcizd2F1bxqsH.1
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Tessa Yao
Event Link: https://ame.usc.edu/seminars/
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
AME Seminar
Wed, Mar 12, 2025 @ 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM
Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Mohand Saed, University of Cambridge
Talk Title: TBD
Abstract: The talk will focus on Liquid Crystalline Elastomers, emphasizing their potential as energy-dissipative materials with promising applications in smart adhesion and vibration damping.
Biography: TBD
Host: AME Department
More Info: https://ame.usc.edu/seminars/
Webcast: https://usc.zoom.us/j/96060458816?pwd=8LmoG2q6vBCQubqqWpcizd2F1bxqsH.1Location: James H. Zumberge Hall Of Science (ZHS) - 252
WebCast Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/96060458816?pwd=8LmoG2q6vBCQubqqWpcizd2F1bxqsH.1
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Tessa Yao
Event Link: https://ame.usc.edu/seminars/
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
The USC Symposium on the Future of Computing: A 25-Year Vision
Thu, Mar 13, 2025 @ 08:00 AM - 04:30 PM
Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Various, Various
Talk Title: The USC Symposium on the Future of Computing: A 25-Year Vision
Abstract: Join us for the USC Symposium on the Future of Computing: A 25-Year Vision, presented by the Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering and the Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science, USC School of Advanced Computing.This two-day event will showcase groundbreaking fundamental and applied research shaping the future of computing over the next quarter century.Featuring leading minds from academia and industry, the symposium will offer keynote and technical sessions spanning a wide range of pivotal topics, including hardware, software, AI and machine learning, theory, and human-computer interaction.Registration is required includes access to the symposium, as well as a light breakfast, lunch, and coffee breaks.RSVP LINK (coming soon)
Biography: DAY 1 & 2 | 8:00am – 4:30pm
- Registration/Check-in
- Keynote Address
- Session A
- Break
- Session B
- Lunch
- Session C
PRESENTATIONS
Day 1:
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
- Amin Vahdat, Google – Engineering Fellow and Vice President for Machine Learning, Systems, and Cloud AI Team
SESSIONS
- AI/ML: Core AI, vision, graphics, robotics
- Hardware II: Processing, architecture, storage for cloud and edge
- Software: OS/networks, databases, programming languages
Day 2:
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
- Doina Precup, McGill University – Professor and Canada Institute for Advanced Research AI Chair
SESSIONS
- Hardware I: Novel computing, quantum technologies, devices
- Human/Computer Interaction: Human in the loop, brain/computer interfaces, edge device interfaces
- Theory: Complexity, algorithms, ML theory, optimization, control, information
Host: Prof. Ramesh Govindan & Prof. Massoud Pedram
Location: Ginsburg Hall (GCS) - Auditorium (LL1)
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
NL Seminar: From Democratization to Personal Names: Reimagining NLP Practices Towards Justice
Thu, Mar 13, 2025 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Information Sciences Institute
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Arjun Subramonian, UCLA, UCLA
Talk Title: From Democratization to Personal Names: Reimagining NLP Practices Towards Justice
Abstract: Meeting hosts only admit on-line guests that they know to the Zoom meeting. Hence, you’re highly encouraged to use your USC account to sign into Zoom. If you’re an outside visitor, please inform us at (nlg-seminar-host(at)isi.edu) to make us aware of your attendance so we can admit you. Specify if you will attend remotely or in person at least one business day prior to the event. Provide your: full name, job title and professional affiliation and arrive at least 10 minutes before the seminar begins. If you do not have access to the 6th Floor for in-person attendance, please check in at the 10th floor main reception desk to register as a visitor and someone will escort you to the conference room location Join Zoom Meetinghttps://usc.zoom.us/j/95338734726?pwd=FwdcZrr7tyjLLiuBgg2DVS6aZKOBf7.1 Meeting ID: 953 3873 4726 Passcode: 100604 Current natural language processing (NLP) practices operate within a set of logics which codify new, and entrench existing, social inequalities and power dynamics. In this talk, I will delve into two troubling NLP practices: the discussion of "democratizing" language technologies and the association of personal names with sociodemographic characteristics. I will reveal how current use of the term "democratization" in NLP can be inconsistent and irresponsible, which risks misrepresenting the distribution of power in and public control of AI; I will further provide recommendations to strengthen progress towards democratic technologies beyond just superficial access. Furthermore, I will survey the issues inherent to associating personal names with sociodemographic attributes, covering problems of validity (e.g., systematic error, construct validity) and ethical concerns (e.g., harms, differential impact, cultural insensitivity). Then, I will offer guiding questions along with normative recommendations to avoid these pitfalls. Ultimately, constructively examining NLP practices through a critical lens is important for advancing justice in the field.
Biography: Arjun Subramonian is a Computer Science PhD candidate at the University of California, Los Angeles. Their research focuses on the fairness and ethics of machine learning and natural language processing. They are further a core organizer of Queer in AI. They are a recipient of an Amazon Fellowship, NSF NRT Fellowship, Eugene V. Cota-Robles Fellowship, and FAccT 2023 Best Paper Award. If speaker approves to be recorded for this seminar, it will be posted on the USC/ISI YouTube page within 1-2 business days: https://www.youtube.com/user/USCISI Subscribe here to learn more about upcoming seminars: https://www.isi.edu/events/ For more information on the NL Seminar series and upcoming talks, please visit: https://www.isi.edu/research-groups-nlg/nlg-seminars/
Host: Jonathan May and Katy Felkner
More Info: https://www.isi.edu/events/5500/from-democratization-to-personal-names-reimagining-nlp-practices-towards-justice/
Webcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rl6MIbqvPIQLocation: Information Science Institute (ISI) - Conf Rm#689
WebCast Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rl6MIbqvPIQ
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Pete Zamar
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
Technology for Business Leaders
Thu, Mar 13, 2025 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Executive Education
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Dr. Bhaskar Krishnamachari, Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Talk Title: Technology for Business Leaders
Abstract: Technology for Business Leaders provides a comprehensive exploration of digital transformation and its impact on contemporary business landscapes. Through a series of structured modules, participants will delve into the core concepts of Digital Technologies, Industry 4.0, Innovation, and Organizational Change management. By analyzing case studies and leveraging practical frameworks, learners will develop the necessary insights and skills to drive successful digital transitions within their organizations.
Host: USC Viterbi Corporate and Professional Programs
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: VASE Executive Education
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
U.S. Military & Veteran Prospective Students Information Session
Thu, Mar 13, 2025 @ 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
DEN@Viterbi, Viterbi School of Engineering Graduate Admission
Workshops & Infosessions
Join the USC Viterbi School of Engineering for an exclusive webinar where you'll learn all about our innovative graduate programs and certificates! The Viterbi School of Engineering is continuously ranked among the top graduate engineering programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Attend this webinar to learn more about the USC Viterbi graduate programs and benefits/support for U.S. active-duty military and veterans. USC representatives will also discuss the flexibility that our online delivery method, DEN@Viterbi offers for active-duty military.Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Corporate & Professional Programs
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
PhD Thesis Proposal - Ali Jalal-Kamali
Thu, Mar 13, 2025 @ 03:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science
University Calendar
Title: Domain-Independent Agent-Based Behavioral Modeling of Events and Team Collaborations
Date and Time: March 13, 2025: 3:00p - 5:00p
Location: GCS 502C
Committee: Drs. Fred Morstatter (chair), David Pynadath, Nik Gurney, Emilio Ferrara, Richard John
Abstract: Analyzing human behavior in conflicts of interest while maintaining cooperation has wide-ranging applications across disciplines and sectors. However, most research approaches to behavioral dynamics remain isolated within specific domains, creating a need for generalizable methodologies. our solution: domain-independent pipelines for: 1) behavior identification & categorization, through systematic approach to classify behavioral patterns. 2) behavioral modeling through data-driven frameworks that capture complex dynamics. 3) autonomous intervention agents, through AI systems designed to improve team performance.Location: Ginsburg Hall (GCS) - 502C
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Ali Jalal-Kamali
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
EiS Communications Hub - Tutoring for Engineering Ph.D. Students
Fri, Mar 14, 2025 @ 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Viterbi School of Engineering Student Affairs
Workshops & Infosessions
Viterbi Ph.D. students are invited to drop by the Hub for instruction on their writing and speaking tasks! All tutoring is one-on-one and conducted by Viterbi faculty.
Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 222A
Audiences: Viterbi Ph.D. Students
Contact: Helen Choi
Event Link: https://sites.google.com/usc.edu/eishub/home
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
Alfred E.Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering - Seminar series
Fri, Mar 14, 2025 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Sheng Li, Ph. D., Associate Professor in the Department of Cancer Biology at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. She also serves as the Program Co-Leader of Epigenetic Regulation in Cancer at the USC NCI-designated Norris Comprehensive Cancer Ce
Talk Title: From Aging to Leukemia: Computational Epigenomics of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Fate
Abstract: Aging and epigenetic reprogramming are deeply intertwined in hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis. Our research investigates how genetic and epigenetic alterations shape hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) evolution, clonal expansion, and malignant transformation. First, using our next-generation and long-read sequencing pipelines, we demonstrated that somatic variations in DNA and histone methylation regulators disrupt the DNA methylome, promoting leukemogenesis. Second, we examined how aging alters HSC fate, clonal dynamics, and transcriptional states through genetic barcoding and single-cell RNA sequencing, revealing age-driven shifts in hematopoiesis via in vivo clonal tracing. We also explored how senolytic interventions reshape the aging hematopoietic transcriptome, potentially reversing age-related dysfunction. Finally, clonal hematopoiesis (CH) is an age-associated expansion of mutant hematopoietic stem cells, linked to leukemia and cardiovascular risk. We found that Tet2 deficiency mitigates epigenetic aging, preserving HSC function and assisting clonal expansion. By integrative mining of single-cell RNA sequencing and single-nucleus chromatin accessibility data, we investigated how Tet2 deficiency reprograms the aging epigenome and influences clonal fitness in CH. Together, these findings provide new insights into how aging and epigenetic dysregulation contribute to leukemogenesis and highlight potential therapeutic strategies for mitigating CH and malignant transformation in hematopoietic stem cells.
Biography: Sheng Li, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Cancer Biology at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. She also serves as the Program Co-Leader of Epigenetic Regulation in Cancer at the USC NCI-designated Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Li received her PhD in Computational Biology from Cornell University in 2014, where she focused on the computational transcriptomics and epigenomics of leukemia relapse. She then served as an Instructor of Bioinformatics at Weill Cornell Medicine in 2014. In 2016, Dr. Li joined the Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2022. In 2024, her lab moved to the USC Keck School of Medicine. The Li lab focuses on algorithm development and integrative mining of long-read, single-cell, and spatial multi-omics data to understand the impact of cell-to-cell variations – in epigenome and transcriptome – and aged microenvironment in driving cancer evolution. The Li Lab has been embedded in a network of NIH consortia, e.g., NCI-NIA jointly funded OncoAging Consortium, NIH Common Fund Cellular Senescence Network (SetNet) Consortium, and NHGRI funded The Encyclopedia of DNA Elements (ENCODE) Consortium. She co-chairs the Omics and Image-Mapping Working Group in SetNet Consortium since 2022. Dr. Li is a recipient of the NIH Maximizing Investigators' Research Award (2019), the American Association for Cancer Research's "NextGen Star" Award (2020), and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Scholar (2024).
Host: Peter Wang
Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 109
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Carla Stanard
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
Alfred E.Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering - Seminar series
Fri, Mar 14, 2025 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Sheng Li, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the Department of Cancer Biology Program Co-Leader of Epigenetic Regulation in Cancer NCI-designated Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center Keck School of Medicine University of Southern California
Talk Title: From Aging to Leukemia: Computational Epigenomics of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Fate
Abstract: Aging and epigenetic reprogramming are deeply intertwined in hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis. Our research investigates how genetic and epigenetic alterations shape hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) evolution, clonal expansion, and malignant transformation. First, using our next-generation and long-read sequencing pipelines, we demonstrated that somatic variations in DNA and histone methylation regulators disrupt the DNA methylome, promoting leukemogenesis. Second, we examined how aging alters HSC fate, clonal dynamics, and transcriptional states through genetic barcoding and single-cell RNA sequencing, revealing age-driven shifts in hematopoiesis via in vivo clonal tracing. We also explored how senolytic interventions reshape the aging hematopoietic transcriptome, potentially reversing age-related dysfunction. Finally, clonal hematopoiesis (CH) is an age-associated expansion of mutant hematopoietic stem cells, linked to leukemia and cardiovascular risk. We found that Tet2 deficiency mitigates epigenetic aging, preserving HSC function and assisting clonal expansion. By integrative mining of single-cell RNA sequencing and single-nucleus chromatin accessibility data, we investigated how Tet2 deficiency reprograms the aging epigenome and influences clonal fitness in CH. Together, these findings provide new insights into how aging and epigenetic dysregulation contribute to leukemogenesis and highlight potential therapeutic strategies for mitigating CH and malignant transformation in hematopoietic stem cells.
Biography: Sheng Li, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Cancer Biology at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. She also serves as the Program Co-Leader of Epigenetic Regulation in Cancer at the USC NCI-designated Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Li received her PhD in Computational Biology from Cornell University in 2014, where she focused on the computational transcriptomics and epigenomics of leukemia relapse. She then served as an Instructor of Bioinformatics at Weill Cornell Medicine in 2014. In 2016, Dr. Li joined the Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2022. In 2024, her lab moved to the USC Keck School of Medicine. The Li lab focuses on algorithm development and integrative mining of long-read, single-cell, and spatial multi-omics data to understand the impact of cell-to-cell variations – in epigenome and transcriptome – and aged microenvironment in driving cancer evolution. The Li Lab has been embedded in a network of NIH consortia, e.g., NCI-NIA jointly funded OncoAging Consortium, NIH Common Fund Cellular Senescence Network (SetNet) Consortium, and NHGRI funded The Encyclopedia of DNA Elements (ENCODE) Consortium. She co-chairs the Omics and Image-Mapping Working Group in SetNet Consortium since 2022. Dr. Li is a recipient of the NIH Maximizing Investigators' Research Award (2019), the American Association for Cancer Research's "NextGen Star" Award (2020), and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Scholar (2024).
Host: Peter Wang
Location: Ronald Tutor Hall of Engineering (RTH) - 109
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Carla Stanard
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
CA DREAMS - Technical Seminar Series
.jpg)
Fri, Mar 14, 2025 @ 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Information Sciences Institute
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Azita Emami, Professor, Caltech
Talk Title: Electronic-Photonic Co-Design for High-Speed Data Communication and Beyond
Abstract: Data centers continue to demand interconnect solutions with higher bandwidth densities and improved energy efficiency. Furthermore, applications such as chip-to-chip interconnects in switches, high-performance FPGAs and GPUs call for compact form-factors, high-volume production and low cost. Silicon Photonics (SiP)-based transceivers, when co-packaged with CMOS electronics, offer a promising avenue to meet these demands with speeds exceeding 100 Gb/s per wavelength. In this talk we focus on architectural and circuit-level techniques for both PICs and EICs to improve the energy-efficiency at high data rates. We will discuss how various types of optical modulators and optical architectures can be employed to achieve higher-order modulation schemes. We will first present a 100Gb/s 3D integrated Sip-CMOS PAM4 optical transmitter system. The photonic chip includes a push-pull segmented MZM structure using highly capacitive, yet optically efficient MOSCAP phase modulators. Co-design and optimum bandwidth enhancement techniques are employed to achieve high data rates and energy efficiency. Next a 100Gb/s DAC-less PAM-4 transmitter and a 200Gb/s QAM-16 transmitter in a multi-micron silicon photonics platform using binary-driven SiGe EAMs will be presented. In the second part of this talk, we will briefly show another example of co-designed electronics and photonics for sensing applications. We present a fully integrated fluorescence (FL) sensor in 65nm standard CMOS comprising on-chip bandpass optical filters, photodiodes (PDs), and processing circuitry. The metal/dielectric layers in CMOS are employed to implement low-loss cavity-type optical filters achieving a bandpass response at 600nm to 700nm range suitable to work with fluorescent proteins (FPs), which are the widely used bio-reporters for biomedical and environmental sensing.
Biography: Azita Emami is the Andrew and Peggy Cherng Professor of Electrical Engineering and Medical Engineering, and the Director of Center for Sensing to Intelligence (S2I) at Caltech. She received her M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University in 1999 and 2004 respectively, and her B.S. degree from Sharif University of Technology in 1996. From 2004 to 2006 she was with IBM T. J. Watson Research Center before joining Caltech in 2007. She served as the Executive Officer (Department Head) for Electrical Engineering from 2018 to 2024. Her current research interests include integrated circuits and systems, integrated photonics, high-speed data communication systems, wearable and implantable devices for neural recording, neural stimulation, sensing and drug delivery.
Host: Dr. Steve Crago
More Info: https://www.isi.edu/events/5480/electronic-photonic-co-design-for-high-speed-data-communication-and-beyond/
Webcast: https://usc.zoom.us/j/97017422125?pwd=Dbrt8MNMrmBV3xalKQJcAiNsggFJjJ.1&from=addonWebCast Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/97017422125?pwd=Dbrt8MNMrmBV3xalKQJcAiNsggFJjJ.1&from=addon
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Amy Kasmir
Event Link: https://www.isi.edu/events/5480/electronic-photonic-co-design-for-high-speed-data-communication-and-beyond/
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor. -
MHI/Physics Joint Seminar, Mark Eriksson, Friday, March 14th at 2pm in EEB 132 & Zoom
Fri, Mar 14, 2025 @ 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Mark Eriksson, Wisconsin Quantum Institute and Department of Physics University of Wisconsin-Madison
Talk Title: Quantum computing using electron spins in silicon
Series: MHI Physics Joint Seminar Series
Abstract: Remarkably, the techniques used to make classical silicon CMOS devices can be used to make qubits with excellent performance. The operation of these devices, on the other hand - from the required temperatures to the number of electrons comprising a typical qubit - is very different from what is found in even the most advanced classical integrated circuits. In this talk I will present both a short historical overview of how quantum computing in silicon has developed, as well as the latest results from both our group at Wisconsin and from around the world. I will emphasize the role of integration, including 3D integration, which enables readout of qubits formed in a Si/SiGe by measuring the microwave transmission of a superconducting resonator on a separate substrate, flip-chip bonded to the first. And I will discuss very recent results demonstrating the remarkable properties of silicon quantum wells containing short wavelength oscillations in the concentration of added germanium atoms. Advances like these have, in just the last few years, demonstrated that a future quantum computing technology in silicon will likely integrate sophisticated techniques and knowledge cutting across many different academic departments, from electrical engineering to materials science, computer science, and physics - a feature that makes it an incredibly dynamic (and fun!) field of science and technology.
Biography: Mark A. Eriksson is the John Bardeen Professor of Physics and the Steenbock Professor of Physical Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Prior to joining the University of Wisconsin in 1999 he received his Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1997 and was a postdoctoral member of technical staff at Bell Labs for two years from 1997-1999. Eriksson leads a team studying semiconductor-based quantum computing and focusing on the development of spin qubits in silicon/silicon-germanium gate-defined quantum dots. He also leads the Materials & Integration science and technology thrust area within the DOE-funded Q-NEXT center led by Argonne National Laboratory. Eriksson is a fellow of the American Physical Society and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Host: Quntao Zhuang, Eli Levinson-Falk, Jonathan Habif, Daniel Lidar, Kelly Luo,k Todd Brun, Tony Levi, Stephan Haas
More Info: https://usc.zoom.us/j/94210354265?pwd=SAYc7H3kA9JiRV7Ktrm2dgelJOCmbV.1
More Information: Mark Eriksson Flyer.pdf
Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 132
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Marilyn Poplawski
Event Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/94210354265?pwd=SAYc7H3kA9JiRV7Ktrm2dgelJOCmbV.1
This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor.
.jpg)