You are cordially invited to attend the biweekly Brookhaven AI Mixer (BAM). BAM includes one short talk on AI research happening at BNL, followed by an open mixer over coffee and snacks for everyone to network and discuss all things AI. The first half hour will consist of presentations that will be available via ZOOM, and the second half hour will be for in person only networking.

Join us every other Tuesday at noon in CDSD's Training Room (building 725, 2nd floor) to learn about interesting AI methods and applications, engage with potential collaborators, prepare for pending FASST funding calls, and build a community of AI for Science at BNL.

Abstract: The increasing complexity and volume of data from electron microscopy necessitates advanced computational tools for timely and accurate analysis. In this talk, I will present several machine learning (ML) models developed to interpret diverse datasets from transmission electron microscopy (TEM). First, I demonstrate segmentation models for labelling regions of interest from in situ TEM images, such as atomic column positions or reaction sites that allow atomic-level quantitative analysis of data. Second, I introduce a self-supervised CNN model for denoising of low-dose HRTEM images, enabling clearer visualization of atomic features without sacrificing temporal resolution. Finally, a transformer-based model trained to predict copper oxidation states directly from their electron energy loss spectroscopy spectra will be introduced. Together, these projects showcase the power of tailored ML solutions to extract quantitative insights from complex microscopy data.

Biography: Brian Lee is a research associate working for the Electron Microscopy group and Theory and Computation group at the Center for Functional Nanomaterials. Previously, he has received PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Duke University and worked as a postdoc at Purdue University. His research focuses on applying machine learning and simulation techniques for materials science.

Location: CDS, Bldg. 725, Training Room

Join ZoomGov Meeting: https://bnl.zoomgov.com/j/1604383624?pwd=ffQ5cUPNxTI7nzClKQO6cnsNbhF9Vf.1

Meeting ID: 160 438 3624
Passcode: 558449

You are cordially invited to attend the biweekly Brookhaven AI Mixer (BAM). BAM includes one short talk on AI research happening at BNL, followed by an open mixer over coffee and snacks for everyone to network and discuss all things AI. The first half hour will consist of presentations that will be available via ZOOM, and the second half hour will be for in person only networking.

Join us every other Tuesday at noon in CDSD's Training Room (building 725, 2nd floor) to learn about interesting AI methods and applications, engage with potential collaborators, prepare for pending FASST funding calls, and build a community of AI for Science at BNL.

Machine Learning for Seismic Low Frequency Extrapolation

Abstract: The cycle skipping problem that plagues seismic inversion can be mitigated by utilizing low-frequency seismic data, which captures the kinematics of wave propagation, in conjunction with a reasonable initial velocity model. However, seismic sources and receivers are band-limited and cannot provide signals down to 0 Hz. To improve solution of the seismic inverse problem one can synthesize the missing low-frequency content by solving a regression problem using machine learning (ML). The recorded high-frequency (HF) seismic data is the input and the ML models are trained to predict the missing low-frequency (LF) seismic data. Deep learning models utilizing convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and generative adversarial networks (GANs) demonstrate important capabilities for LF extrapolation. However, such models require powerful hardware and careful training. We explore the feasibility of using less costly ML models such as a random forest, Gaussian process surrogates, and gradient boosting as alternatives to computationally expensive deep learning models.

Biography: Sue Minkoff is Chair of Applied Mathematics at Brookhaven National Laboratory. From 2012-2024 she was a Professor of Mathematical Sciences and an Affiliated Professor in the Departments of Sustainable Earth Systems Sciences and Science and Mathematics Education at the University of Texas at Dallas. From 2000-2012 she served on the faculty in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. She received her doctorate in Computational and Applied Mathematics from Rice University. From 1995-1997 she was a National Science Foundation-Industrial postdoc joint with the University of Texas at Austin and British Petroleum, and from 1997-2000 she held the von Neumann Fellowship in the Mathematics Department at Sandia National Labs. In 2000 Minkoff was promoted to Senior Member of the Technical Staff in Sandia's Geophysics Department. Minkoff's research interests include scientific computing, inverse problems, uncertainty quantification and digital twins modeling, Earth science, and photonics.

Location: CDS, Bldg. 725, Training Room

Join ZoomGov Meeting: https://bnl.zoomgov.com/j/1606848158?pwd=miUtq7OkYL5SNkjbgVb19teZPNennd.1

Meeting ID: 160 684 8158
Passcode: 068399

Abstract: The recent expansion of online sport wagering and igaming has led to higher rates of problem gambling, particularly among emerging adults and other population subgroups. The Center for Gambling Studies (CGS) at the Rutgers University, School of Social Work, is using big data analysis, machine learning and GIS mapping to identify geographic locations with populations most at risk to guide the development of targeted interventions. This presentation will review the GIS StoryMap for the State of New Jersey, including a blueprint for the highest risk target service areas in the state. It will also present findings from a machine learning model that identifies the key risk factors for high-intensity online casino bettors. Implications for prevention, treatment and policy initiatives will be discussed.

Bio: Lia Nower, J.D., Ph.D., is a Distinguished Professor, Associate Dean for Research, and Director of the Center for Gambling Studies at Rutgers University. A clinician and attorney, her research focuses on big data analysis and machine learning models for online gambling and sports wagering; gambling and video gaming among emerging adults; policy initiatives around harm reduction and responsible gambling, and etiology and treatment of problem gambling. Dr. Nower serves as a senior editor for Addiction. She has received both the Research (2019) and the Lifetime Research Award (2022) from the National Council on Problem Gambling and the Board of Trustees Award for Research (2022) from Rutgers University.

Join Zoom Meeting: https://stonybrook.zoom.us/j/95617197636?pwd=KytzZ2pVRG9SZGpKZUtpNXJISjNjZz09
Meeting ID: 956 1719 7636 Passcode: 924293
Abstract: As computing and society become increasingly inseparable, we confront a fundamental design challenge: creating AI systems where human-machine interactions authentically embody our diverse values while thoughtfully evolving our social relationships. The recursive nature of these interactions--where human behavior shapes technology design and technological affordances influence human behavior--presents both profound risks and transformative opportunities as we reimagine our collective digital future. What interaction patterns emerge when algorithmic systems become active participants in societal decision-making? How can we design human-AI collaboration that ensures algorithmic systems align with diverse community values while serving the public interest? Through Public Interest AI, we explore a Pluralistic Design Language that creates interaction models for value-sensitive algorithmic ecosystems, strengthening AI-society alignment in both technology design and policy development. Through collaborative interaction with communities, we create systems that augment human capabilities while embedding ethical principles into the sociotechnical design of AI itself--ultimately redefining possibilities at the intersection of technology, policy, and society. This talk will examine the challenges of designing meaningful human-AI systems within social contexts through real-world applications that combine value-sensitive interaction design, human-inspired computing, and societal development to create technologies that advance our shared commitment to the public good.

Bio: Neil Gaikwad is an Assistant Professor of Data Science and Computer Science at UNC Chapel Hill. Additionally, he serves on the Faculty Advisory Council of the UNC Parr Center for Ethics and is a Fellow at the MIT Dalai Lama Center for Ethics and Transformative Values. Neil holds a Ph.D. in Society-Centered AI from MIT and is an alumnus of Carnegie Mellon University's School of Computer Science. Neil's scholarship, published in prominent AI and HCI conferences, has been recognized with several prestigious honors, including the Facebook Research Fellowship, UIST Best Paper Honorable Mention, MIT Engineering Fellowship, Human Rights & Technology Fellowship, Graduate Teaching Award, and the Karl Taylor Compton Prize, MIT's highest student honor. He has been recognized as a Rising Star by both Stanford University and the University of Chicago. Translating research into real-world impact, Neil is a dedicated educator and mentor who has taught over 500 students throughout his career. He has guided more than 30 students to publish influential papers on AI fairness, secure prestigious fellowships, and contribute to shaping AI policy through public interest research. Neil is also the founder of the AI Policy Global Initiative, which has successfully brought together academia, industry, government, and communities to address critical challenges in AI governance and develop collaborative approaches to responsible AI.

Location: Old Computer Science, room 1310

Donghee Yvette Wohn has been appointed the inaugural chair of the new Department of Technology, AI and Society (DTAS) in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, effective September 1, 2026. Wohn’s research on the topics of human-computer interaction (HCI), artificial intelligence and online social behavior have earned her a national and international reputation as a leading voice in the field.