With approximately 51 tenure-track, tenured, and research faculty and 210 PhD students — and strong collaborators across campus — we cover a wide array of research areas across the computer and information sciences. To get an overview of some of the projects and activities across the department, please see here.
Computer and Information Science is a broad, dynamic field that encompasses the study of computation, algorithms, and the design of systems and technologies that process and manage data. It combines theoretical foundations with practical applications across various domains. One of the core research areas is Intelligent Systems, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Data Science, which focuses on the creation of machines and algorithms that can simulate human intelligence and make data-driven decisions. AI research includes machine learning, robotics, natural language processing, and computer vision, while data science involves extracting insights from large datasets to solve complex problems. These technologies are essential in areas such as healthcare, finance, and autonomous systems.
Another important branch is Human-Centered Computing, which emphasizes the interaction between people and technology. This research area focuses on designing systems that are user-friendly and improve the quality of life. It encompasses topics like human-computer interaction (HCI), virtual reality, accessibility, and user interface design. The goal is to create technologies that are intuitive and efficient for users, particularly in applications such as education, healthcare, and workplace environments. This research emphasizes the importance of understanding human needs and behaviors to design better systems.
Computer Systems and the Foundations of Computation form the backbone of this discipline. Computer systems research focuses on the architecture and performance of computers, networks, and operating systems, ensuring they are secure, reliable, and efficient. It includes areas like distributed systems, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Meanwhile, the Foundations of Computation provides the theoretical framework, studying topics such as algorithms, computational complexity, formal methods, and programming languages. This theoretical foundation is essential for advancing computer science and applying it to real-world challenges. Together, these areas ensure that computer and information science remains at the forefront of technological innovation.