January 2024 - Gradstudents - mailman.cs.vt.edu

Jie Bu's Ph.D. defense [Feb 9 at 4 pm]
by Anuj Karpatne 02 Dec '24

02 Dec '24

Hello everyone, You are cordially invited to the final defense of PhD student Jie Bu on Thursday, Feb 9 at 4 pm. Zoom Link: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/j/5142223333 Title: Achieving More with Less: Learning Generalizable Neural Networks With Less Labeled Data and Computational Overheads Committee: Dr. Anuj Karpatne (advisor) Dr. Adrian Sandu Dr. Ismini Lourentzou Dr. Naren Ramakrishnan Dr. Anish Arora (from Ohio State University) Abstract: Recent advancements in deep learning have demonstrated its incredible ability to learn generalizable patterns and relationships automatically from data in a number of mainstream applications. However, the generalization power of deep learning methods largely comes at the costs of working with very large datasets and using highly compute-intensive models. Many applications cannot afford these costs needed to ensure generalizability of deep learning models. For instance, obtaining labeled data can be costly in scientific applications, and using large models may not be feasible in resource-constrained environments involving portable devices. This thesis aims to improve efficiency in machine learning by exploring different ways to learn generalizable neural networks that require less labeled data and computational resources. We demonstrate that using physics supervision in scientific problems can reduce the need for labeled data, thereby improving data efficiency without compromising model generalizability. Additionally, we investigate the potential of transfer learning powered by transformers in scientific applications as a promising direction for further improving data efficiency through domain adaptation. On the computational efficiency side, we present two efforts for increasing parameter efficiency of neural networks through novel architectures and structured network pruning. Thanks, -Anuj ------------------- Anuj Karpatne Assistant Professor Computer Science, Virginia Tech https://people.cs.vt.edu/karpatne/

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Muskan Gupta's Thesis exam
by Sang Won Lee 02 May '24

02 May '24

Hi, You are cordially invited to Muskan Gupta's thesis exam. I've included the details below. Sang Won Lee *When/Where* 8/31/2023 (Thursday) 1 PM-3 PM The Gilbert Place Room 3211 *Committee* Sang Won Lee (Chair) Eugenia Rho Scott McCrickard *Title*: Understanding Social Media Users' Perceptions of Trigger and Content Warnings *Abstract*: Exposure to distressing content on social media poses risks to users' mental well-being, leading to the use of trigger warnings (TW) and content warnings (CW). However, there is limited insight into user preferences and the factors affecting these warnings' effectiveness. This study addressed this gap through qualitative interviews with 15 participants. Findings revealed generally positive user perceptions of warnings, which provide protection from distressing content, create safe spaces for sharing sensitive experiences, and avoid such content in public spaces. However, understanding when, what, and how to use warnings varied among users, leading to complex decision-making. Factors influencing warning effectiveness included their separation from content, length, awareness, consistency, context, severity, reasoning, creator's intent, and audience knowledge. Participants stressed the need for enhanced education on warnings and triggers in social media. The study produced design recommendations, including personalized filtering, platform guidelines, specificity, nudging creators, interventions against excessive scrolling, accessibility improvements, and community feedback mechanisms. Participants also suggested post-trigger support measures. The study uncovers challenges in balancing warnings with user engagement, specificity, and personalization while avoiding the creation of filter bubbles. While the study spanned various platforms, future research should focus on specific platforms to address limitations like recruitment bias and broad scope. Future directions include incentivizing warning use, implementing nudges and interventions, and improving post-trigger support, as well as investigating audio triggers and quantitative studies for refined TW/CW design to promote a trauma-informed social media environment.

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CS|Source: Announcements & Opportunities | January 31, 2024
by Watson, Joan 31 Jan '24

31 Jan '24

[cid:image003.png@01DA5440.5C268780] Spring 2024 CS|Source Career Fair Monday, February 12, 2024 • Commonwealth Ballroom, Squires Student Center Please see the attached flyer for important details about admittance times! At this time, the following companies will be attending the CS|Source Career Fair on Monday, February 12, 2024: AMERICAN SYSTEMS CACI Dark Wolf Solutions DRT Strategies GEICO Hughes Network Systems Lockheed Martin Manhattan MITRE Corporation National Security Agency Peraton Reinventing Geospatial®, Inc. (RGi®) Tech Wizards, Inc The Joint Warfare Analysis Center VERISIGN Due to the nature of the work and their current open positions, these companies are only accepting applications from United States citizens at this time. CS|Source is actively working to extend its reach to include more companies with international hiring profiles. We hope to have a longer list of companies in the Fall 2024 CS|Source Career Fair who are able to consider international students for internships and full-time employment. Virtual Spring 2024 Events: Bank of America Check out the attached flyer to learn about the virtual workshops offered by Bank of America this spring. Undergraduate Interns Needed in the PRIME Lab in CS@VT Dr. Yan Chen's (ych(a)vt.edu<mailto:ych@vt.edu>) research group at PRIME Lab (https://chensivan.github.io/) , Blacksburg, has several internship openings for undergraduates. These projects involve Large Language Models (LLMs), data analytics, and visualization systems. There are both unpaid and paid positions available. We are especially interested in students with experience in database development (e.g., PostgreSQL), full-stack visualization system design and implementation (e.g., d3.js, Node.js), and/or conducting lab studies (including recruitment, IRB processes, and user data analysis). If you are interested, please fill out this form: https://forms.gle/jKSGXFYJ5BkCY1XCA Bank of America: Summer 2025 Internship Programs Applications for Bank of America Summer 2025 internships will open on February 1st! See the attached flyer for more information and the link to apply. The Carey Lab in Biological Sciences is hiring two undergraduate technicians for Spring and Summer 2024. Please see the attached flyer for more details and application information. Note: Applications for this position are due via email by February 1st, 2024. Break Through Tech AI - Application Now Open! The Break Through Tech AI Virtual Program is now accepting applications for the 2024-25 cohort, which will begin in June 2024! The priority application deadline is Monday, February 5 at 11:59 PM (PT), and the final application deadline is Monday, March 18 at 11:59 PM (PT). Apply here: https://ecornell.cornell.edu/portal/break-through-tech-ai-application/. An initiative of Cornell Tech, Break Through Tech AI is a paid, 1-year extracurricular experience that helps undergraduate college women (trans and cis), nonbinary, and other underrepresented groups in tech gain the skills they need to get jobs in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. The program includes an online Machine Learning course over the summer, followed by industry challenges and mentorship and career coaching during the Fall and Spring - all meant to help you launch your career in AI and Machine Learning. All accepted participants who successfully complete the program will receive a $2,000 award. Complete the interest form to join the mailing list for application updates and reminders, and to register for upcoming virtual information sessions.<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdS5zVGyczPPsC0CFIhbqt87fBRW06yaID…> For any questions or concerns, please contact Abby Kawola (amk295(a)cornell.edu<mailto:amk295@cornell.edu>). See the attached flyer for more details. [Image] Apply NOW to the CGI Consulting Challenge! Applications are due by February 7, 2024. See the attached flyer for more information. Spring 2024 CS|Source MOCK Career Fair Thursday, February 8, 2024 • 1:00-4:00 PM • 1100 Torgersen Register HERE<https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjelv…> to participate! SAVE THE DATE! CS|Source Stakeholder Information Sessions Sunday, February 11, 2024 • 10 AM – 5 PM • Torgersen Hall We will be providing specific details about stakeholder companies and the time/location of their information sessions. [Image] Technical Interview Workshop, Q&A, and Pizza! (sponsored by GEICO) Tuesday, February 13, 2024 • 12:00-1:30 PM • 1100 Torgersen SAVE THE DATE! A registration link and workshop details will be provided closer to the day of the event. Employer Panel Discussion: The Who, What, When, Where & Why of Internships Tuesday, February 13, 2024 • 5:00 – 6:00 PM • 2150 Torgersen Hall Please join us for this moderated employer panel that unpacks the value and processes involved in industry internships. Discussion will include processes such as submitting applications, creating an impactful resume, interviewing, professionalism in the workplace, what to expect as an intern, etc., as well as the value and significance of completing an internship during college. Students are encouraged to bring their own questions about internships to ask our in-person panelists from some of our largest employers, including Lockheed Martin, GEICO, CGI, and Peraton. Registration is required. REGISTER HERE by February 9: https://forms.office.com/r/guZz6XiRvK [See attached flyer for more information.] Employer Panel Discussion: Professionalism & Ethics in Computer Science Tuesday, February 13, 2024 • 6:30 – 7:30 PM • 1100 Torgersen Hall Representatives from some of the largest employers of CS students will be on hand to discuss the role of professionalism and ethics in computer science careers. Discussion will include professionalism in the workplace; corporate/tech innovations and social/environmental responsibilities; personal accountability in team environments; engaging in continuing professional, career, and personal development opportunities, etc. Students are encouraged to bring their own questions to pose to our employer panelists. Registration is required; attendance is limited to 70 students due to room capacity. REGISTER HERE by February 9: https://forms.office.com/r/1wkCD09gGS [See attached flyer for more information.] VICEROY VIRTUAL CAREER FAIR Thursday, February 15, 2024 • 1-4 PM (EST) Network with Department of Defense professionals and learn more about the internship and career opportunities available. [See attached flyer for registration information.] 2024 Summer Research Opportunity North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro, NC, has 2024 Summer Research Experiences available for Undergraduates in Data Science and Analytics! Program Dates: May 20 - July 26, 2024 Application Deadline: March 15 Application Website: https://ncat.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eJoAVw0ysAb4pEO *************** Joan Monahan Watson, Ph.D. Director of Administrative Operations Department of Computer Science Virginia Tech 3160D Torgersen Hall 620 Drillfield Drive Blacksburg, VA 24061 Phone: 540.231.8874 Email: jmwatson(a)vt.edu<mailto:jmwatson@vt.edu>

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Welcome Sara Coulson
by Cliff Shaffer 29 Jan '24

29 Jan '24

Join me in welcoming Sara Coulson to the CS Department! She is our new Director of the Office of Graduate Programs, taking over the position previously held by Trey Mayo. Sara comes to us from Radford University where she was most recently International Admissions and Education Abroad Coordinator, and before that Assistant Director of Academic Advising. So she brings a wealth of knowledge about the various IT systems that we use at Virginia Tech, extensive experience with international students, and academic advising skills. We are so sorry to lose Trey Mayo, who has gone to be an Assistant Dean at William and Mary. But we are fortunate to have such a highly qualified new member of the graduate program team in Sara Coulson! -- Dr. Cliff Shaffer Professor and Associate Department Head for Graduate Studies Department of Computer Science Phone: (540) 231-4354 Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061 WWW: www.cs.vt.edu/~shaffer

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First Digital Education Reading Group Meeting for Spring 2024
by Cliff Shaffer 28 Jan '24

28 Jan '24

We invite you to join us for our first Digital Education Reading Group Meeting for Spring 2024. This will be Friday, February 2 at 11:00AM, by Zoom at https://virginiatech.zoom.us/my/shaffer. Our paper will be: https://dl.acm.org/doi/pdf/10.1145/3478431.3499389 Tracking Large Class Projects in Real-Time Using Fine-Grained Source Control More broadly, I hope to have a discussion about how having "real-timeish" data to provide to a GTA on student progress on the current programming assignment can help the GTA interact with the student. Hope to see you on Friday! Note that we will not advertise future group meetings to this listserv. If you are interested in the Digital Education Research Group and our reading group meetings, feel free to join our Google Group at https://groups.google.com/g/digital-education-research-at-vt -- Dr. Cliff Shaffer Professor and Associate Department Head for Graduate Studies Department of Computer Science Phone: (540) 231-4354 Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061 WWW: www.cs.vt.edu/~shaffer

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[Open House Event] Reimagining Equity and Accessibility in Computing for Humanity (REACH) Lab at VT
by Williams, Ihudiya 27 Jan '24

27 Jan '24

Hello! I would like to cordially invite members of the graduate and undergraduate CS community to REACH Lab's Open House on January 31st, 2024, from 3 pm to 6 pm. The event will take place at 220 Gilbert St in Gilbert Place 3001. REACH Lab<http://reach.cs.vt.edu/> is currently recruiting for part-time research positions (undergraduate and graduate). The goal of this open house is to expose students to a career in academia and inform students about part-time research positions at REACH. We aim to engage with students from various backgrounds to bring new perspectives into the field. With that in mind, we look forward to your attendance! Attached to this email are flyers with the information provided in this email, along with the RSVP link. Please RSVP by January 29, 2024. We look forward to seeing you (yes you) at the open house! Sincerely, REACH Lab RSVP LINK: https://bit.ly/3S0oNUN More about REACH Lab: REACH Lab<http://reach.cs.vt.edu/> is an HCI research lab in the Department of Computer Science. We are currently actively recruiting part-time research assistants at 20 dollars an hour. Interested applicants should apply here: http://bit.ly/applytoreachlab. Upcoming research projects can be found on Handshake under Job #8594616. Best, Dr. Williams [https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/mail-sig/AIorK4zDEVb9qkqBTdIIH2dlXN0GcICb…] Dr. Ihudiya Finda Williams Assistant Professor Virginia Tech | Department of Computer Science Address: 620 Drillfield Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24061 Email: iogburu(a)vt.edu<mailto:iogburu@umich.edu> Website<http://www.ihudiyawilliams.com/> | LinkedIn<http://www.linkedin.com/in/ihudiyawilliams> | Schedule a Meeting<https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/c5efbccff6f543b9b9401e7adf09e322…>

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Friday seminar: "How to Succeed in Research as a CS Graduate Student"
by Cal Ribbens 25 Jan '24

25 Jan '24

Dr. Shaffer will be giving a presentation tomorrow (Friday, Jan 26) at 2:30 in Torgersen 3100 on "How to Succeed as a Research-track Graduate Student". If you are relatively new to the department and are planning to do an MS thesis or a PhD, I highly recommend this! In person recommended. Zoom option at https://virginiatech.zoom.us/j/83928441335?pwd=UFFVbjZibkVIaVFsdXpoVXFKS3lG… Dr. R. -- Head, Department of Computer Science Virginia Tech

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Reading Group on Convex Analysis
by Bansal, Akshay 24 Jan '24

24 Jan '24

Hi all, Hope you have had a great start to the Spring semester! We, in collaboration with some research groups at VT are planning to organize a reading group on "Convex Analysis" this semester (starting February). The primary focus of this reading group will be to work through classical results in convex analysis, with the possibility of exploring "modern convex analysis" towards the end of the semester. The plan is to work through a textbook in convex analysis, and here are a few options: 1. "Convex Analysis<https://convexoptimization.com/TOOLS/AnalyRock.pdf>" by Rockafellar 2. "Convex Analysis and Minimization Algorithms<https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-662-02796-7>" by Hiriart-Urruty and Lemarechal 3. "An Easy Path to Convex Analysis and Applications<https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-26458-0>" by Mordukhovich and Nam We plan to meet once a week for approximately 1.5 hours (tentatively on Fridays). Each session will have assigned readings, and participants can take turns leading the discussion on the material. If you are interested, please have a look at the above references to get an idea on the weekly readings. Please drop me an email at akshaybansal(a)vt.edu<mailto:akshaybansal@vt.edu> for any questions. Best, Akshay

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CS|Source: Announcements & Opportunities | January 24, 2024
by Watson, Joan 24 Jan '24

24 Jan '24

[cid:image001.png@01DA4EE2.9468C300] !! THIS AFTERNOON !! [Image] Working In Professional Environments (sponsored by Peraton) Wednesday, January 24, 2024 • 6:00 PM • 1100 Torgersen Hall Greg Caufman, the Director of Operations at Peraton in Blacksburg, invites you to attend the workshop “Working in Professional Environments” to discuss and prepare for making the transition from student to career professional in innovative tech roles. Space is still available! Undergraduate Interns Needed in the PRIME Lab in CS@VT Dr. Yan Chen's (ych(a)vt.edu<mailto:ych@vt.edu>) research group at PRIME Lab (https://chensivan.github.io/) , Blacksburg, has several internship openings for undergraduates. These projects involve Large Language Models (LLMs), data analytics, and visualization systems. There are both unpaid and paid positions available. We are especially interested in students with experience in database development (e.g., PostgreSQL), full-stack visualization system design and implementation (e.g., d3.js, Node.js), and/or conducting lab studies (including recruitment, IRB processes, and user data analysis). If you are interested, please fill out this form: https://forms.gle/jKSGXFYJ5BkCY1XCA The Carey Lab in Biological Sciences is hiring two undergraduate technicians for Spring and Summer 2024. Please see the attached flyer for more details and application information. Note: Applications for this position are due via email by February 1st, 2024. Break Through Tech AI - Application Now Open! The Break Through Tech AI Virtual Program is now accepting applications for the 2024-25 cohort, which will begin in June 2024! The priority application deadline is Monday, February 5 at 11:59 PM (PT), and the final application deadline is Monday, March 18 at 11:59 PM (PT). Apply here: https://ecornell.cornell.edu/portal/break-through-tech-ai-application/. An initiative of Cornell Tech, Break Through Tech AI is a paid, 1-year extracurricular experience that helps undergraduate college women (trans and cis), nonbinary, and other underrepresented groups in tech gain the skills they need to get jobs in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. The program includes an online Machine Learning course over the summer, followed by industry challenges and mentorship and career coaching during the Fall and Spring - all meant to help you launch your career in AI and Machine Learning. All accepted participants who successfully complete the program will receive a $2,000 award. Complete the interest form to join the mailing list for application updates and reminders, and to register for upcoming virtual information sessions.<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdS5zVGyczPPsC0CFIhbqt87fBRW06yaID…> For any questions or concerns, please contact Abby Kawola (amk295(a)cornell.edu<mailto:amk295@cornell.edu>). See the attached flyer for more details. [Image] Apply NOW to the CGI Consulting Challenge! Applications are due by February 7, 2024. See the attached flyer for more information. Spring 2024 CS|Source MOCK Career Fair Thursday, February 8, 2024 • 1:00-4:00 PM • 1100 Torgersen Register HERE<https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjelv…> to participate! SAVE THE DATE! CS|Source Stakeholder Information Sessions Sunday, February 11, 2024 • 10 AM – 5 PM • Torgersen Hall We will be providing specific details about stakeholder companies and the time/location of their information sessions. SAVE THE DATE! Spring 2024 CS|Source Career Fair SAVE THE DATE! Monday, February 12, 2024 • Commonwealth Ballroom, Squires Student Center Please see the attached flyer for important details about admittance times! [Image] Technical Interview Workshop, Q&A, and Pizza! (sponsored by GEICO) Tuesday, February 13, 2024 • 12:00-1:30 PM • 1100 Torgersen SAVE THE DATE! A registration link and workshop details will be provided closer to the day of the event. Employer Panel Discussion: The Who, What, When, Where & Why of Internships Tuesday, February 13, 2024 • 5:00 – 6:00 PM • 2150 Torgersen Hall Please join us for this moderated employer panel that unpacks the value and processes involved in industry internships. Discussion will include processes such as submitting applications, creating an impactful resume, interviewing, professionalism in the workplace, what to expect as an intern, etc., as well as the value and significance of completing an internship during college. Students are encouraged to bring their own questions about internships to ask our in-person panelists from some of our largest employers, including Lockheed Martin, GEICO, CGI, and Peraton. Registration is required. REGISTER HERE by February 9: https://forms.office.com/r/guZz6XiRvK [See attached flyer for more information.] Employer Panel Discussion: Professionalism & Ethics in Computer Science Tuesday, February 13, 2024 • 6:30 – 7:30 PM • 1100 Torgersen Hall Representatives from some of the largest employers of CS students will be on hand to discuss the role of professionalism and ethics in computer science careers. Discussion will include professionalism in the workplace; corporate/tech innovations and social/environmental responsibilities; personal accountability in team environments; engaging in continuing professional, career, and personal development opportunities, etc. Students are encouraged to bring their own questions to pose to our employer panelists. Registration is required; attendance is limited to 70 students due to room capacity. REGISTER HERE by February 9: https://forms.office.com/r/1wkCD09gGS [See attached flyer for more information.] *************** Joan Monahan Watson, Ph.D. Director of Administrative Operations Department of Computer Science Virginia Tech 3160D Torgersen Hall 620 Drillfield Drive Blacksburg, VA 24061 Phone: 540.231.8874 Email: jmwatson(a)vt.edu<mailto:jmwatson@vt.edu>

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For Graduating MS/PhD Students: Student Activity Reports
by Cliff Shaffer 24 Jan '24

24 Jan '24

This message is only for MS/PhD students who plan to graduate this semester. The Student Activity Report is used both for annual evaluations, and as raw data for Departmental program evaluations. As such, we need to ensure that we gather reasonably up-to-date information from everyone. For this reason, I will require everyone to submit their 2024 SAR before I will sign off on scheduling a FINAL EXAM through the Grad School online system. SAR information can be found at https://gpc.cs.vt.edu/. You will need to log in with your CS account credentials (NOT your University password). Once you are logged in, you should see a pulldown menu tab in the top line labeled SAR. Remember that you can import the information from the SAR you gave in the prior year. So you should only need to update things (milestones, publications, funding) for this year if you did this properly last year. Please make sure to include all publications, including those planned for submission, during your time at VT. This is especially critical to our assessments. Thank you! -- Dr. Cliff Shaffer Professor and Associate Department Head for Graduate Studies Department of Computer Science Phone: (540) 231-4354 Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061 WWW: www.cs.vt.edu/~shaffer

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