Computer Science and Engineering graduate Zhongyuan Zhao has recently accepted a postdoctoral position in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Rice University.
Zhao earned his Ph.D. from CSE in May and was advised by Susan J. Rosowski professor Mehmet Can Vuran. His research focused on cognitive radio networks, which he explains as a family of technologies that enables next generation wireless networks to learn and adapt to its radio environment.
As a postdoctoral researcher at Rice, Zhao will collaborate with Rice faculty Santiago Segarra, Edward W. Knightly, and Ashutosh Sabharwal in the areas of machine learning, signal processing, wireless networking, security, and robust networking design. His research tasks will span from AI-assisted wireless system design, machine learning tools (including graph neural networks) applied to wireless networking, performance evaluation, theoretical foundations, and advanced prototype implementation.
Zhao said he appreciated the welcoming learning environment CSE offered, which prepared him well for his new role at Rice.
“CSE is like a warm family. The staff are very helpful whenever I had any request,” Zhao said. “I had the chance to know and befriend many fellow graduate students, who are smart, funny, and busy. I learned a lot and got a lot of personal help from the faculty. I can tell that the students and faculty at CSE are always striving for a better community.”
Zhao also said Vuran made a positive impact on his educational experience.
“The Ph.D. studies with Dr. Vuran transformed me into a researcher,” Zhao said. “He did very well in mentoring, teaching, and inspiring. With his permission and encouragement, I took a minor in finance from the College of Business, which I believe would benefit my long term career. I had a lot of ideas, and Dr. Vuran always kept me focused on the most important things, and meeting the important deadlines, so that I can get things done.”
Congratulations to Zhongyuan Zhao on this exciting next phase of his career!