Harvey Miller: Mapping the  Ghost Neighborhoods of Columbus

Harvey Miller, professor of geography and Director of the Center for Urban and Regional Analysis, discusses his project “Ghost Neighborhoods of Columbus,” which uses AI, machine learning, and GIS to extract data from historic Sanborn fire insurance maps and construct 3D virtual models of neighborhoods that have been altered or destroyed by urban renewal, highway construction, and redlining.

The project is a collaboration with Ohio History Connection and incorporates oral histories, archival photos, and VR experiences to preserve cultural memory.

Yuan-Sen Ting: How AI is Impacting Science Research

Yuan-Sen Ting, Associate Professor of Astronomy and a member of the Center for Cosmology and AstroParticle Physics, discusses his innovative research at the intersection of artificial intelligence and astronomy. He uses large language models as agents to aid in astronomical research. He explains the concept of agentic research, how AI assists in tasks such as identifying outlier data from telescopic observations, and the potential and limitations of AI in complementing human researchers. Dr. Ting also talks about his background in mathematical physics, his interest in non-intrusive applications of AI, and the future of AI in scientific research. He emphasizes the importance of teaching students to use and critically assess AI outputs in their work.

You may also be interested in Dr. Ting’s Science Sundays discussion

Bryan Carstens: How AI Can Predict Undescribed Mammals

Bryan Carstens, Professor of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, discusses his research on phylogeography, molecular ecology, and systematics. Carstens’ lab uses genetic data to understand the evolutionary history of animals. A bat biologist by training, he delves into fieldwork processes, the importance of museum collections, and technological advancements like DNA sequencing and AI in his research. Carstens discusses with host David Staley his notable projects, such as a study predicting undescribed mammals using data science and AI models and ongoing work studying the shapes of bat skulls to understand early stages of species diversification.