Each week we're featuring a Q&A with a member of our faculty in the School of Computing. Get to know some of our professors! This week we're featuring Associate Professor Juan Cui.
What are your research areas or areas of specialty/interest?
My research focuses on computational biology and bioinformatics, with a specific interest in developing computational solutions to study human diseases and biological systems. For more details, please visit our group webpage at https://sbbi.unl.edu.
What courses are you teaching this year?
This year, I am teaching CSCE 471/871: Introduction to Bioinformatics, and the advanced course CSCE 971: Statistical Modeling and Machine Learning in Bioinformatics. Additionally, I have been teaching CSCE 423/823: Algorithm Design and Analysis in recent years.
How did you first become interested in computing or your specific area of computing?
I became interested in computing, particularly machine learning, in a bio-setting, because of its power to accelerate the discovery process in understanding complex biological systems where traditional lab techniques fall short. I am passionate about developing new computational solutions to promote and manage human health.
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of computing? What do you enjoy most about those?
Outside of computing, I enjoy attending seminars given by domain experts, such as cancer biologists, clinician, or experts in obesity, aging, nutrient and brain, or entrepreneurship. Learning new knowledge is always exciting to me. At home I like reading, doing some light handcrafts, and gardening when time allows.
What is your favorite weekend activity?
Going hiking and to the library with two young sons (5 and 7) or having a family road trip to new place like national parks.
Where is your favorite place you've traveled?
Each place I’ve enjoyed has been associated with personal and unique memories, so it is difficult to pick a favorite one. I always look forward to preparing for a trip with a new destination. My travel interests have been shifted from collecting cities stamps to enjoying more natural scenery.
What is your favorite food?
I am a food lover and enjoy trying all kinds of gourmet dishes when traveling. We have a Chinese-Italian cuisine fusion at home. My sons always say that I love all soup, which is actually true.
What is a fun fact or something other members of the school may not know about you?
I have been slowly building my handcraft workshop and collections.
What is your favorite thing about being a part of the School of Computing?
Being surrounded by Intelligent and energetic students and faculty.