Michael Puthawala

Dr. Michael Puthawala is revolutionizing practices in the field of mathematics and artificial intelligence as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at South Dakota State University. Holding the prestigious position of CAPITAL Services Scholar in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Dr. Puthawala is at the forefront of research in manifold learning, topological/geometric learning, and universality. His academic journey is marked by a PhD in Applied Mathematics, which laid the foundation for his extensive work in machine learning and related areas. Dr. Puthawala's research interests are diverse and impactful, encompassing inverse problems, scientific computing, and optimal transport. His work is characterized by a deep commitment to advancing the understanding and application of mathematical principles to solve complex problems. His contributions to the field are not only theoretical but also practical, as evidenced by his numerous publications in esteemed journals such as the Journal of Machine Learning Research and the Journal of Computational Physics. Before his tenure at South Dakota State University, Dr. Puthawala honed his research skills as a Simons Postdoctoral Fellow at Rice University. This experience, coupled with research internships at Google LLC and Oak Ridge National Lab, provided him with a unique perspective on the intersection of academia and industry. These roles allowed him to collaborate with leading experts and contribute to cutting-edge projects, further solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in his field. Dr. Puthawala's work in scientific computing and optimal transport has significant implications for various industries, including technology, healthcare, and logistics. His research in inverse problems is particularly noteworthy, as it addresses fundamental questions in data analysis and interpretation, with applications ranging from medical imaging to environmental modeling. In addition to his research, Dr. Puthawala is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of mathematicians and data scientists. He is actively involved in teaching and curriculum development, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. His commitment to education is reflected in his innovative teaching methods and his ability to inspire students to pursue careers in STEM fields. Dr. Puthawala's contributions to the field of mathematics and artificial intelligence are both profound and far-reaching. His work continues to influence the way we understand and apply mathematical concepts in real-world scenarios, making him a pivotal figure in the ongoing advancement of these disciplines.