Aiding Innovation with Machine Learning | Boston University Annual Report 2023

For the visually impaired, navigating an unfamiliar street can be challenging. That’s why ESHED OHN-BAR, a professor of electrical and computer engineering, is working to develop AI technologies that provide intuitive, humanlike guidance through an unknown environment.

In a May 2023 study, researcher CHONGHUA XUE (ENG’18,’27) and Associate Professor of Medicine VIJAYA B. KOLACHALAMA used machine learning to compare blood samples, which found differences in the plasma of healthy adults and those who developed Parkinson’s—up to 15 years prior to diagnosis.

At the intersection of AI and healthcare, the next life-changing discovery awaits—and MARGRIT BETKE, a professor of computer science, has found one. Betke is using AI to review brain scans of stroke victims, pinpoint damaged areas of the brain, and predict the likelihood of language problems and the efficacy of treatment.

Improving your diet improves your health, right? But why? That’s the question MAURA E. WALKER, an assistant professor of nutrition, is investigating. Her research combines lab-based biochemical work with data science to understand how diet induces a microbial response that can affect long-term health.

AI Aiding Innovation

Machine learning and AI are proving useful, despite their preliminary limitations and concerns. In fact, AI is helping us write this article (thanks, Google autocorrect) and illuminate the work of brilliant minds at BU.

AI Hiring Initiative Hones Our Expertise on Campus

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