Program: Software Engineering

Field of Research: Machine Learning for Pulse-by-Pulse Classification of Radar Signals

ł§łÜ±č±đ°ů±ąľ±˛ő´Ç°ů:ĚýDr. Sreeraman Rajan

Program: Childhood and Youth Studies

Field of Research: Children’s Museology and Social Justice

ł§łÜ±č±đ°ů±ąľ±˛ő´Ç°ů:ĚýDr. Monica Patterson

Reason For Participating

I chose to participate in the I-CUREUS as it gave me the opportunity to work alongside one of my professors. The I-CUREUS also gave me the opportunity to begin conducting research on an area of interest and importance to me.

Research

The problem, in a broad sense, that this research is trying to tackle relates to social work pedagogy. Specifically, the problem is about whether a method of approaching and practicing social work is one that those with lived experience of poverty would ascribe to, and would feel empowered to utilize. The goal of this research is to add to the knowledge base available to practitioners about social work practice. Ultimately, the goal is to uncover how clients respond to an approach, as well as to inform best practices for practitioners moving forward.

The research group that I work in focuses on poverty and social citizenship, both as it affects the local and global community. I am involved by aiding in the creation of critical knowledge about poverty and social citizenship which is used to inform policy, and pedagogy. As I’ve learned, the research process is one that has multiple dimensions. Thus far, I’ve been involved in investigating the current literature available about the topic, creating a literature review, and applying for ethics approval.

Relation to Studies

Most of the material taught in my classes have been applied to my research. Specifically, students are required to take a research methods/stats class, which has been instrumental in allowing me to conduct research with participants.

Furthermore, my research has allowed me to directly implement material learned in class, in a way that is relevant for practitioners currently in the field. In addition to this, my research has given me lived experience engaging with classroom theories that I can now apply and discuss with peers and other professors.

Value of Experience

To date the most valuable skill that I gained from the experience has been learning how to preform statistical analysis within the field of Public Affairs. Another valuable skill that I have gained has been learning how to more effectively discuss research, and by so doing, be able to collaborate and work with others of similar interest.

From participating in the I-CUREUS I have gained the opportunity to work on research in a way that is relevant, and interesting to me. Whereas in the classroom research is theoretical, the I-CUREUS allowed me to put my knowledge to use.

To Future Participants

I would tell people considering participating in this opportunity to talk to their professors, as well as other students (especially those in graduate programs) about their research interests. They offer incredible knowledge and can add to the experience you have with the I-CUREUS. The I-CUREUS is a great opportunity to get involved in research that you are truly passionate about.

Reason For Participating

I wanted to get a jump start into my master thesis while finishing 4th year. I had a good experience and enjoyed research with I-CUREUS in the past two years. I also presented and  – isn’t that cool!

Research

This research is trying to predict/measure user satisfaction/feedback in a non-intrusive real-time manner. One of the main enablers of cellular network personalization is the ability of the network to measure and track in real-time the user satisfaction in a non-intrusive manner. Tracking user satisfaction requires the utilization of machine learning and big data analytics to predict user satisfaction based on different inputs from various sensors such as cameras, microphones, accelerometers, gyroscopes, etc.

Wireless network personalization, an area of research that Yanikomeroglu’s group is currently working on, is indispensable to achieve the ultimate balance between user satisfaction and profit and hence, deliver mobile services profitably to users in a win-win setting. Rawan Alkurd, a Ph.D. student in Electrical and Computer Engineering under the supervision of Dr. Yanikomeroglu and Dr. Abualhaol, developed a big data-driven AI-based framework to enable personalization in 5G systems.

Mohamed’s Role

I am going to join the research group and work on developing a mobile application and a data model that can harness all sensors in mobile phones and wearable devices and correlate these measurements in machine learning algorithms to predict user satisfaction. The mobile application is a non-intrusive real-time system that automates the process of capturing user feedback.

Process

• I finished learning about the big picture of the research and about Ms. Alkurd’s journal (. I understood how important it is to get user satisfaction to move forward with the framework.
• We discussed the overall plan for the I-Cureus internship. We came up with ordered steps of how we are going to tackle the issue of measuring user satisfaction.
• We have been having a weekly meeting with my supervisor and biweekly report to discuss the progress of the project.
• I learned an online machine learning course to learn both the intuition and the implementation.
• We wrote a proposal statement and applied for OGS and NSERC scholarships

Relation to Studies

Course work has established the essential knowledge I require to move forward and understand my research thesis better. I learned and still learning about communication systems, machine learning, problem-solving as a skill, software engineering principles, operating systems, etc.

My research made me look beyond just studying for an exam. I enjoy studying nowadays as I can see the applications of what I am learning. Also, research made me care about learning the essence of things rather than just aiming for a good grade on the exam day.

Value of Experience

I would say the most valuable skill I haven gained is innovation and problem-solving. You solve a problem in the way you see it shall be solved with a slight supervision from your professor. Isn’t this amazing! Instead of being told what to do in a job, you decide what to do based on your vision to the problem. Of course, you may not get it right in the first time, but we only learn from hands-on experience and mistakes!

My previous experience in research plays a big role in my current research in terms of planning, time management, patience, confidence, and perseverance. I have gained confidence in managing and working on big projects that I would otherwise not have gained in a classroom setting.

To Future Participants

Participating in I-CUREUS gives you the chance of discovering and exploring your interests in research. This allows you to perhaps compare research and industry work in your own view and experience. Of course, to mention, it is the best part-time job you could ever have while studying. I can also share my experience in terms of time management and research tactics. Also, I would tell them to aim for NCUR as it was a spectacular experience!!

Reason For Participating

The reason why I chose to do I-CUREUS was to get experience in the field of my interest and gain research experience. This program lets me work in a lab and gain knowledge about if this is the career for me. It allows me to get to know my supervisors and put hands on experience on real life issues today.

Research

Kiara’s Role

My role in this process is staining the brain tissue of the mice that were given probiotics and gut mucosa disruptors as well as environmental toxins known to contribute to Parkinson’s. The staining is done in order to assess the inflammatory profile of the brain’s immune cells (the microglia) and to quantify the number of dopamine cells which is the primary indicator of Parkinson’s and its severity. The staining of brain tissues is done by using immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. I am also learning advanced microscope imaging techniques in order to quantify my data.

Relation to Studies

In my neuroscience classes, especially in first year, we learned a lot about the type of neurological diseases (mental and physical) that are common in our everyday life, such as Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease is a brain disease specifically in the substantia nigra compacta (SNC). Learning in class about the anatomy of the brain, as well as some basic knowledge about the symptoms/characteristics of the disease, enhanced my research, and my ability to learn further details in class. The research has helped me in some of my classes by teaching me about techniques that I’m being taught in class. Specifically, in my research methods class I was able to apply techniques and concepts to what I was learning about in class.

Value of Experience

The most valuable skill I’ve gained from this experience so far is being able to time manage. Having been in the lab twice a week, and having lab reports and other school as well as extracurricular as well it was helpful being able to manage my time. Also, the meticulous attention to detail required when staining and imaging has greatly helped me focus during studying.

Currently in the neuroscience program there are no lab courses and due to this reason, my lab experience has been in other departments. This experience, being in the neuroscience lab, has given me insight on what kind of work is being researched in the neuroscience field and some of the unique techniques used to investigate the brain and what scientists and graduate students in neuroscience actually do on a day to day basis while seeking to solve these problems.

To Future Participants

I would tell future I-CUREUS participants that it’s a great, very well-organized program that allows you to do work that you are passionate about. It provides you with an insight as to what research is like, specifically in your field of interest. Furthermore, it allows you to get to know faculty members and other students in the neuroscience program.

Reason For Participating

I wanted to participate because I-CUREUS seemed like a good opportunity to get involved in a professors research that was similar to my learning interests (technology accessibility).

Research

Relation to Studies

The lab in which I am working in has multiple masters and PHD students that have previously graduated from my program or similar ones. Lots of the course material learned (surrounding user centered design as well as prototyping) relates directly to the research that is being conducted. Not to mention, I have used a lot of my knowledge learned in programming in order to come up with lessons to teach to the youth during workshops.

I found myself using the in-lab knowledge relating to deformable sensors and applying it to multiple in class assignments. In addition, I got much better at soldering due to the in-lab improvements I had to make to some prototypes, thus I found myself doing a much better job at it for in-class assignments.

Value of Experience

I believe the most valuable skill that I have improved on thanks to the experience is being thorough. One thing that I noticed in all areas I was working in—whether it be coding, soldering, or organizing an event—is that they all require a great attention to detail.

I have gained hands on applications in an area of technology that I would like to pursue. In addition, I got to experience first-hand the environment of life after undergraduate studies thanks to my coworkers and I can definitely say that I too would like to pursue a master’s degree.

To Future Participants

I-CUREUS is a great opportunity to work alongside a professor that is willing to teach you. My advice for future participants is to take the initiative to do things around the workplace yourself. Don’t always look for guidance.

Reason For Participating

I chose to do I-CUREUS because it is a great way to build relationships with faculty at ĐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ and to develop my research skills. Furthermore, the hours are flexible and is therefore, a convenient job to have as a student.

Research

The problem this I-CUREUS research is addressing is the lack of scholarly understanding of how countries manage talent mobility for innovation and growth. Our goal is to understand how Singapore manages their talent mobility for innovation and growth.

As part of Dr. Geiger’s project on , I am conducting research to create a country profile on Singapore to examine how they manage talent mobility for innovation and growth. I have participated in a research workshop with the librarian and other RA’s to prepare for academic research. After I complete each section of the country profile, Dr. Geiger provides feedback as I continue to complete other sections.

Relation to Studies

As a student of Public Affairs and Policy Management specializing in International Relations, I have become familiar with the challenges states, international institutions, and economies are facing in an increasingly interconnected world. The challenges that spark my interest are those related to migration, which is closely related to this research project.

I am applying my research abilities learned from classes to an actual research project supervised by Dr. Geiger. I am also applying my knowledge in policy to this research project. Furthermore, my research has nicely complemented my current Migration Governance course, as I am able to apply what I have learned in this research project to what I am learning in class.

Value of Experience

The most valuable skill I’ve gained from this experience is the ability to conduct independent research and work collaboratively with a research professor. Participating in I-CUREUS has also given me hands on experience conducting research and producing work that may be published.

To Future Participants

I would definitely encourage other students to participate in this opportunity. The hours are not overwhelming and therefore work well with student schedules. It allows you to see if you want to pursue further research opportunities.

My advise would be to manage your time wisely, and to not be afraid to ask questions and reach out if you need help/clarification.

Reason For Participating

With I-CUREUS, I’ve been able to work with renowned Professors, industry experts, and researchers in the field to develop a comprehensive yet streamlined and versatile framework to manage time-based annotation data.

Research

The research group focuses on gathering real-time patient data using unobtrusive technologies such as a Pressure Sensitive Mats in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit environment.

I’m involved in the gathering of temporal annotation data to assist with the correlation of the various input data sources with patient events in real-time.

My research entails minimizing cognitive overhead in user interaction and user experience with annotation technologies through requirements engineering and development of user interaction and experience fidelity models.

Relation to Studies

It helped me apply best practices across application and infrastructure development and harness skills such as requirements engineering in a real-world application. It has also given me a great opportunity to apply my theoretical knowledge in a real-world application and get a broader understanding of concepts and techniques.

Value of Experience

Being able to perform requirements engineering among various domain experts and stakeholders involved to streamline the goals to be achieved and real-world application of theoretical concepts and techniques.

To Future Participants

A unique gem of an opportunity to truly make a resonating impact among global communities and science at large.

I-CUREUS will help with understanding the objectives you intend to achieve through your work in this program to help you better align your workflow to achieve those objectives.

Reason For Participating

I worked with my supervisor over the summer and very much enjoyed doing so while learning things I couldn’t have otherwise. The I-CUREUS program allowed me to continue doing immensely interesting and fun work during the school year in a subject that is really on the front lines of physics.

Research

The collaboration I am working with collects a large amount of information over long periods of time, and if there is an issue with the detector we use it is important for us to be able to know about it. My research is focused on updating the tool we use to process new data to add checks that look for various trends that could show these issues.

The goal of my research is to help update the processor used on new data and add in new checks to look for irregularities in the data as well as look for trends that may exist.

Relation to Studies

The group that I am working with is trying to help solve the mystery of dark matter which is a bit above what I am currently learning about in class. However, I am able to make connections between what I learn in class and what I am working with, which helps me better understand both.

Value of Experience

I have gained many valuable skills from this experience such as a familiarity with a new coding language, experience being a part of and presenting to a large collaboration, and the ability to manage and analyze large collections of data. It is difficult to pinpoint what is the most valuable skill as everything I learned was and still is very useful for me.

The I-CUREUS opportunity allowed me to take my theoretical knowledge from the classroom and apply it to the real world. It also introduced me to what research in physics is really like, which I wouldn’t have experienced until much later.

To Future Participants

Doing research while simultaneously attending classes is a challenging task. However, it is well worth the experience and is immensely rewarding. It gives numerous opportunities you would not have had by simply going to class and opens your eyes to a completely new aspect your field of study.

The I-CUREUS program is fantastic and will open so many doors. If you can be a part of the program take full advantage of it to learn as much as you can and make as many connections as possible.