GOALS: The student in Computer Systems Research will:

1. Pursue a research project in a computer science or computational science concentration area. Example areas are:
   • Extending a project from one of our elective courses - AI, Parallel programming
   • Also see this topic overview (.doc):
     • AI 1 Topics: Graphs and Search Techniques, Games and Learning, Genetic Algorithms and learning
     • AI 2 Topics: Image processing and computer vision, algorithms for learning using constraints, agent based modeling and learning, neural networks and learning
     • Parallel Computing 1 Topics: Compression Techniques, Numerical simulation, Parallization methods, Gridding strategies
     • Parallel Programming 2 Topics: Cellular Automata and parallelization, Threads and sockets, 3D Graphics, Parallel platforms and parallel thinking
   • Artificial intelligence and machine learning/neural networks, data mining
   • 3D computer graphics, virtual realities
   • Chaos theory
   • Agent based modeling, evolutionary programming, complex systems, particle swarm optimization (PSO), ant colony optimization (ACO) MASON agent based toolkit
   • Computer vision and image processing, steganography, edge detection, object recognition
   • Parallel, distributed computing, evolution of MPI (Message Passing Interface)
   • Computational science: Bioinformatics, computational linguistics, computational paleontology
   • Applications involving tools such as Matlab or BLAST
   • Programming languages
   • Software engineering, technologies and practices of project management, unified modeling language
   • Projects to benefit the school such as the student Intranet
   • Computer systems and networks, topologies of clusters (for system administrators)
   • Other areas, such as computer music
   • Other project suggestions

2. University research areas

3. Student research projects from the previous years:
   • 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006
   • Project areas:
     1. Agent Based Modeling, Evolutionary Modeling, computer simulation, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Ant Colony Optimization (ACO)
        • 2009:
          • A Cellular Automata Approach to Population Modeling
          • Simulation of Global Warming in the Continental United States Using Agent-Based Modeling
          • Artificial Intelligence in Agent-Based Modeling
          • Model of a Virus Outbreak on a Contained Population
          • Simulation of the Spread of a Virus Throughout Interacting Populations with Varying Degrees and Methods of Vaccination
          • Epidemic Modeling
          • The Tragedy of the Commons using Agent-Based Modeling
          • Modeling Virus Transmission using Agent Based and System Dynamics Modeling (using both System Dynamics and Agent based approaches)
          • A System Dynamics Approach to Global Warming
          • Modeling the Effects of Disasters on Human Population and Resources (using Systems Dynamics)
          • System Dynamics Modeling of Community Sustainability (using Systems Dynamics)
        • 2008:
          • Evolving Motor Techniques for Artificial Life,
          • Exploring Wealth Distribution through Sugarscape,
          • Particle Swarm Optimization and Social Interaction Between Agents,
          • Programming a New Sugarscape,
          • Simulating Evolution, JLSim:Visual Traffic Simulation with Extensive User Interface,
          • AI with Particle Swarm Optimization,
          • Analysis of Underlying Causes and Mechanics of Civil Disorder,
          • Prisoner's Dilemma with N Participants and Optional Cooperation,
          • A New Sugarscape Model,
          • Logic Based Computation using Conway's Game of Life,
          • Agent Based Simulation, Negotiation, and Strategy Optimization of Monopoly,
          • Study on the Outputs and Design of an Abstract Evolution Simulator,
          • A Dynamic Model of Human Populations,
          • Airport and Air Traffic Modeling and Simulation,
          • Examining Leadership Using Agent Based Modeling,
          • Simulation of the Spread of a Virus Using Agent Based Modeling,
        • 2007:
          • ACO: Ant Colony Optimization, Evolution Simulator,
          • Modeling of Hall Traffic at TJ,
          • Simulation of Traffic Lights,
          • Cellular Automata,
          • Human Cognitive Emulation,
          • Modeling of Economics,
          • The Unique-Bid Auction,
          • TJ School Hallway Design
        • 2006:
          • Multiagent Modeling of Societal Development and Cultural Evolution,
          • Modeling of Traffic Patterns on Highways,
          • Ant Optimization in NetLogo,
          • Population Dynamics Using Multi Agent Modeling,
          • Modeling Economic Systems,
          • Controlling the Spread of an Epidemic Using Environmental Based Modeling,
          • Modeling of NP Complete Problems,
          • Multiagent Modeling of Civil Violence and Disobedience,
          • Simulation of Traffic Patterns and Optimizing Traffic Lights,
          • Modeling of Economic Systems,
        • 2005 and earlier:
          • Social Complexity and Agent Based modeling,
          • Computer modeling: 3D simulation of First Response Scenarios,
          • Agent Based Modeling of a Micro-Evolution Scenario,
          • Agent Based Modeling: Evacuation Scenarios of Urban Sites,
          • Agent Based Modeling: Traffic Flow Scenarios
          • Evolution of Darwin's Finches: Simulation using Genetic Algorithms

     2. Modeling with algorithms
        • 2009:
          • Econometrics modeling
          • poster, presentation, code/API.
          • The Tragedy of the Commons as Applied to Traffic Simulation
          • A Traffic Simulation Model Allowing for Wide-ranged Vehicle Communication
          • Traffic Model Simulation
          • Economic Policy Simulation and Optimization
          • Creating 2-D and 3-D Models of the Solar System Using Physics-Based Geometries in Java
          • AvaMol - Molecular Mechanics to Quantum Chemistry and Back

     3. Algorithms, Mathematics
        • 2009:
          • Applications of Stochastic Processes in Asset Price Modeling
          • Data Compression through Duplicate Elimination and Tagging
        • 2008:
          • Calculating Fractal Dimension from Vector Images
          • Pathfinding Algorithms in Mutating Graphs
          • Cayley graphs formed by conjugate generating sets of S_n
          • Conformal Mapping Using the Schwarz-Christoffel Transform
        • 2007:
          • Algorithm Efficiency and Data Structures
          • Map Navigation Using A* Search
          • Finite State Machines and Game Design
        • 2005:
          • DNA Sequence Pattern Matching Algorithms
          • High Performance Computing Algorithms in Cryptography
          • Algorithms for Computational Comparative Historical Linguistics
          • Algorithmic Music Composition Techniques
          • Assessment of Sorting Parts by Slot Width
        • 2004 and earlier:
          • Solving the Majority Classification Problem and Cellular Automata
          • Design and Implementation of an Efficient Search Engine Algorithm
          • New Quantum Mechanical Model of Lossy Information Propagation and Transmission
          • Polak-Ribiere conjugate gradient method for function minimization
          • The development of a Transient-based Audio Timestretching Algorithm
          • The Stravinsky Project : Using Genetic Algorithms to Compose Music

     4. Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Genetic Algorithms, Neural Networks, Computational Sciences
        • 2009:
          • Applications of Genetic Algorithms
          • Naive Bayes Classification (Computational Linguistics)
          • Evolving Cutting Horse and Sheepdog Behavior in a Simulated Flock
          • Solving the Vehicle Routing with Multiple Multi-Capacity Vehicles
          • Machine Learning of Bridge Bidding
          • The Implementation of Artificial Intelligence and Temporal Difference Learning Algorithms in a Computerized Chess Program
          • The Implementation of Machine Learning in Checkers
          • TJHSST Hallway Traffic Simulation
          • Traffic Based Pathway Optimization
        • 2008:
          • Using Genetic Algorithms to Optimize the Traveling Salesman Problem
          • Development of a German-English Translator
          • Machine Learning for Musical Analysis and Creation
          • Implementation of a Library for Artificial Neural Networks in C
          • Using Neural Networks for Breaking a Visual CAPTHCA,
          • Exploration of Genetic Algorithms Through the Iterative Prisoner's Dilemma
          • Genetic Algorithms to find Near Optimal Solutions to the Traveling Salesman Problem
          • Reinforcement Learning in Connect 4
        • 2007:
          • Hybrid AI and Machine Learning Systems
          • French/English Translation
          • Machine Learning Applications with Genetic Algorithms
          • Applications of Neural Networks
          • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning with Othello
        • 2006:
          • Creation of an Interactive Russian-English Translation Program
          • Dialog Processing With Neural Networks
          • The Use of Genetic Algorithms in Machine Learning; Applications to Othello
          • Examining the Mechanisms of the Human Brain with Computer Science
        • 2005 and earlier:
          • Datamining with C4.5 Decision Trees
          • Machine Learning in GamesMachine Learning in Games
          • Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Dots and Boxes
          • Dynamic Speech Recognition
          • Investigation of Methods of Computer Music Generation
          • Use of Data Mining In Creating a Stock Market Simulation: StockSim
          • AI for Five-in-a-row
          • The Search for Wobachia: GUI Database Organizing and Assessing the effect of the Bacterium Wolbachia on Various Insect Species

     5. Computer Graphics
        • 2009:
          • Rigid Body Dynamics: A Graphical Simulation
          • Exploration of a 3D World
        • 2008:
          • Accurate 3D Modeling of User Inputted Molecules Using a Hill-Climbing Algorithm
          • First Person Pac Man 3D Graphics
          • An Interactive, User-driven Physics Simulator
          • Use of Various Techniques Implementing Procedural Generation in Video Game Design
          • Three Dimensional Collision Detection for N Solids Using OpenGL
        • 2007:
          • Graphical Display of Physical Models
          • Development of a 3D Graphics Engine
        • 2006:
          • The Investigation of Graphics in the Processing Language
          • 3D Virtual Environment
          • 3D Modeling
        • 2005 and earlier:
          • Terrain Generation in OpenGL
          • Random Terrain and Non-fractal Urban Environment Generation
          • A Simulation of Weather Conditions in a 3d Environment Using OpenGL
          • Portal to the Past - a Virtual Museum Tour
          • Creating a Particle Engine
          • Three-Dimensional Network Structure Visualization Using OpenGL Graphics and TCP/IP
          • SETI Visualizations: Development of Graphical Utilities for Explaining SETI

     6. Computer Science Education
        • 2009:
          • Math Edutainment Software for Girls Grades 1-6
          • Benefits of Computer Education
          • Learning to Design Simple Computer Programming Projects in an Elementary School Setting
          • Computer Science for the Young Mind
        • All other years:
          • Elementary Education in a Technology Age
          • Multimedia Workstation
          • The Luminance Open Source Educational Desktop
          • The World Wide Web as an Educational Tool

     7. High Performance Computing, Parallel Computing
        • 2008:
          • Optimizing Parallel Programming with MPI,
          • XMT-C and the Ear Decomposition Algorithm
        • 2007:
          • Decentralized Process Distribution
          • Chaos Theory Using Supercomputing
        • 2006 and earlier:
          • Development of Distributed Computing Software for Multiple Operating Systems with Effective Processor Management Using the Xgrid Implementation
          • Building a Distributive Server
          • Construction of a Beowulf Cluster
          • Distributed Data Storage Across a Network
          • Parallel Computing and Supercomputer Applications in Cellular Automata and Artificial Life

     8. Software design and engineering, application oriented
        • 2009:
          • Automated System Testing
          • tjTalk School Question Forum
          • Design and Implementation of an Extensible, Modular, Web-based Classroom Supplement
        • All other years:
          • TJHSST Website Redesign
          • Modular Communications Protocol (NetChat)
          • Music Editing/Composition Software
          • Intranet Module: Implementation of a Graphing Calculator
          • Development of an Object-Oriented Module-based Extensible Student Intranet Web Application in PHP5
          • The Luminance Open Source Educational Desktop
          • Online Bleeding Logs for Hemophiliacs: Simplifying Data Collection and Analysis
          • Development of a web-based condominium complex system using PHP and MySQL
          • Design of a Modular MySQL Database Structuring in the Development of a Dynamic Web Site
          • Form Information Database

     9. Computer Vision, Image Processing
        • 2009:
          • Automating Scoliosis Analysis
          • Reverse Engineering Graphs: Obtaining Data Points from Scatterplots
          • Morphology Based OCR
        • 2008:
          • Sign Language Recognition
          • Development of a Generic Font Optical Character Recognition (OCR)
          • Image Sharpening - Unblurring/Deblurring,
          • Advanced Automobile Recognition Through the Use of Image Processing Techniques,
          • Analysis of Runner Biomechanics through Image Processing
          • Dynamic Image Resizing
        • 2007:
          • Implementation of Steganographic Techniques
          • Image Filter Technique
        • 2006 and earlier:
          • Image Recognition
          • Camera Calibration by Corner Detection
          • Steganography Using Computer Images

     10. Computer Language Translation
         • All years:
           • Java Decompiler
           • C to Java Language Translation
           • Sigma Lisp: The Design and Implementation of a Modern Lisp Dialect

     11. Computers and Music
         • 2009:
           • Automated Musical Part Writing (Spring sem) and Modeling Stage Lighting in Realistic Conditions (Fall sem)
           • Isolation of Individual Tracks from Polyphonic Music
           • Designing a Music Scripting Language

     12. Computer Software for Robotics
         • 2009:
           • Creation of Algorithms and Software for use with a "Foosbot"

     13. Science Applications
         • All years:
           • Analysis of Spectro-temporal Receptive Fields in an Auditory Neural Network
           • The Search for Wobachia: GUI Database Organizing and Assessing the effect of the Bacterium Wolbachia on Various Insect Species
           • Evolution of Darwin's Finches: Simulation using Genetic Algorithms

     14. Mentorship
         • 2009:
           • Northrop Grumman Mission Systems, Automation of Testing in the Distributed Common Ground System (Army)
           • Koolspan Inc, Bethesda MD, Evaluation and Comparison of Real-time Network Latency
           • Northrop Grumman Tasc, Analysis and Presentation of Signal Jamming Effectiveness
         • 2008:
           • SyntenyChecker: quality control from syntenic regions at National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
           • Code Refactoring with Legacy Code in Flight Model Software (MITRE)
         • 2007:
           • TASC Component Architecture and Simulation Environment (TCASE) (Systems Modeling, Northrop Grumman IT),
           • Implementation of Artificial Physics Using AIBO Robot and the Pyro Programming Environment (AI Robotics, NRL)
           • IT.com - Web search techniques, graph networking
           • Assessing Terrorism Threat Rankings to Specific Sites (Risk Analysis, Digital Sandbox)
           • Integrated Spell Checker and Search Engine (Internet AI, IT.com)
           • Use of the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) Algorithm and Applications With An Intranet Search Program (Internet Datamining and AI search, IT.com)
           • GMU Experimental Economics
           • Mitre Tech - Flight Simulator software design
           • Designing a View Management System for Augmented Reality (Virtual Reality Systems, NRL)
           • Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC), Highway Driving Simulator
         • 2006 and earlier
           • Development of a Automated Mechanical Receptionist,
           • A Relational Database for Inventory and Asset Management
           • Matrix Mapping Tool (VTC)
           • 3D Modeling of Roofs from LiDAR Data using the ESRI ArcOb jects Framework,
           • Logic Programming for Natural Language Processing (Analytic Services)
           • Multidimensional Database Representation of Realtime Volatile Environments
           • Optimizing the Placement of Chemical and Biological Agent Sensors
           • Symbolic Algebra and Visualization Enhancements of a 2D-Visual Programming Environment (NRL)
           • Computational Model of Energetic Particle Fluxes in the Magnetosphere (GMU)
           • Semi-Autonomous Control of a Segway Robotic Mobile Platform (NRL)
           • Computational Modeling of Artificial Societies (GMU)
           • The Effect of Sound Distortion on Hearing Perception (NRL)
           • Development of a Web Interface for Accessing Chemical Information in Thor and Informix Databases (Walter Reed Army Institute)
           • Development of a Data Measuring Application for Federates Used in Simulations (VTC)

4. Complete a research portfolio:
   • formal research paper in support of the research project using LaTeX to generate a PDF/PS version
   • digital poster of the project (ppt or openoffice draw)
   • oral presentation with slide presentation (ppt or openoffice presentation)
   • maintain a record of daily/weekly logs and iteration reports (planning, design, coding, testing in repetitive cycles), use of a log book (composition notebook)
   • display mature and ethical judgement with respect to computer use and student behavior