At the heart of is a focus on turning data into impact, whether that be in improving the accuracy of diagnostics, giving large groups ways to make better collective decisions, or guiding students toward strong careers one hands-on project at a time. This interdisciplinary program is offered jointly by the College of Engineering and the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing. Its mission comes to life through its leadership. Program Director and faculty member Susana K. Lai-Yuen was recently named a 2026 Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors. This recognition honors innovators who have transformed discovery into technologies that advance society and drive economic progress. The NAI 2026 class of Senior Members is comprised of 230 emerging inventors from 82 NAI member institutions across the globe.
“Being named a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors is a meaningful honor that recognizes the collective impact of my research, teaching, and innovation efforts,”said Lai-Yuen. “This recognition reflects the collaborative and supportive research environment at USF. It also motivates me to continue advancing impactful research, mentoring students, and contributing to the university’s mission of innovation and societal benefit.”
We recently connected with Lai-Yuen to discuss her research, her recognition, and how innovation shapes the MSDI program.
Q: Can you share a little about your research background and what led you to focus
on data intelligence and analytics?
A: My research background is in deep neural network optimization, machine learning, and multimodal object detection, with a focus on using data to make intelligent systems more efficient and impactful. I became interested in these areas through early projects involving clinical data and medical imaging to improve disease diagnosis and treatment planning. That experience led me to focus on data intelligence and analytics to design AI systems that support better decision-making while using computational resources more efficiently.
Q: What real-world problems excite you most about the field of data intelligence today?
A: What excites me most is the potential to address real-world challenges across diverse domains, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure. In healthcare, data-driven AI can enable more accurate diagnoses, improve treatment planning, and support more informed clinical decision-making. In education, analytics can enhance learning experiences and student success. More broadly, data intelligence helps organizations and communities make better decisions in complex environments.
Q: How does your research influence the way the MSDI program is designed and taught?
A: The MSDI program is shaped through collaboration among faculty with expertise in data intelligence, deep learning, computer vision, and systems engineering. We bring current research insights and real-world experience into the classroom, with a strong emphasis on hands-on, applied projects. This approach ensures graduates build both a strong technical foundation and the practical skills needed for data-driven, AI-focused careers.
Q: How does innovation and invention play a role in your approach to data intelligence
and the MSDI program?
A: Innovation and invention are central to how we approach both data intelligence and the MSDI program. We focus on real-world problem solving. Students work with real data, explore new ideas, and design practical AI-driven solutions. This helps them develop strong technical skills, cultivate innovative thinking, and gain the hands-on experience needed to succeed in AI-focused careers.
Lai-Yuen’s honor highlights the strength of leadership behind USF’s MSDI program and the opportunities ahead for its students. With a focus on innovation, real-world application, and impact, the program continues to confer graduates with strong portfolios who are ready to lead in a data-driven world.
Interested in learning how to shape the future of AI and data-driven decision-making with Professor Lai-Yuen? .
You can also meet Professor Lai-Yuen at the upcoming about the MSDI program on Wednesday, April 22 at 6 p.m. ET via Microsoft Teams. RSVP now to get the Teams link and optional calendar reminder so that you can get your questions answered and see if MSDI is right for you.