Yanhua Li

Dr. Yanhua Li is an esteemed Associate Professor in the Computer Science Department and Data Science Program at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). With a robust academic background, he earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, and another in Electrical Engineering from Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications. His research is deeply rooted in the realms of artificial intelligence and spatial-temporal data science, with a particular emphasis on smart cities and urban intelligence. Dr. Li has made significant contributions to the field through his involvement in various projects funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), including a prestigious CAREER grant. His work has garnered recognition, notably receiving the Best Applied Data Science Paper Award at the SDM 2019 conference. His research endeavors are centered around advancing imitation learning and meta-learning in AI, aiming to enhance the understanding and influence of decision-making strategies among urban human agents. In addition to his research, Dr. Li is passionate about mentoring the next generation of scholars. He is keen on collaborating with self-motivated Ph.D. students and visiting scholars who have a strong interest in Artificial Intelligence, Deep Learning, Data Mining, Machine Learning, Statistics, Applied Math, and possess strong programming skills. His mentorship is characterized by a commitment to fostering innovation and critical thinking in his students. Dr. Li's work in smart cities and urban intelligence is not only academically enriching but also holds practical implications for the development of sustainable and efficient urban environments. His research is instrumental in shaping the future of urban planning and management, leveraging AI to address complex challenges faced by modern cities. Through his dedication to research and education, Dr. Li continues to make a profound impact on the field of computer science and data science. His contributions are paving the way for advancements in AI technologies that are crucial for the evolution of smart cities and the enhancement of urban living.