The robot theater initiative owes its origins to Myounghoon “Philart” Jeon, a professor of industrial and systems engineering at Virginia Tech’s College of Engineering. Conceived in 2015 during his tenure at Michigan Technological University and launched the following year, Jeon’s vision sought to dismantle traditional barriers in STEM education by integrating performing arts with robotic technologies. Over nearly a decade, the program has been extensively refined, transcending disciplinary boundaries to marry engineering with artistic expression. This synthesis allows children not only to interact with robots but also to inhabit a space where technology is not cold and inaccessible, but playful, creative, and ethically meaningful.

Central to the robot theater program is its emphasis on experiential learning through creative modules encompassing acting, dance, music, and drawing. Each session combines structured guidance with ample free-play, allowing young participants to engage in hands-on exploration while nurturing their technical curiosity. Unlike conventional robotics programs that may lean heavily on coding from the outset, robot theater prioritizes movement and gesture as entry points to understanding complex technological concepts. This approach capitalizes on embodied cognition, where physical experience is fundamental to grasping abstract ideas about robotics and artificial intelligence.

One of the most novel facets of the program is its deliberate integration of ethics related to AI and robotics—an area often overlooked in early education. The newly acquired NSF funding aims to deepen this aspect by developing a curriculum that highlights the ethical dimensions of human-robot interaction, including critical issues such as fairness, privacy, bias, and responsible use. These considerations are woven seamlessly into performance and play rather than presented as dry theoretical content. For example, children may interact with robots equipped to track their dance movements, opening pathways to discussions about data privacy and algorithmic transparency through relatable, narrative-driven activities.

The interdisciplinary team spearheading this effort includes not only Jeon but also Koeun Choi, an associate professor specializing in child development and family science, whose insights into cognitive growth have informed the program’s pedagogical framework. In addition, Qin Zhu, an associate professor of engineering education with expertise in ethics and curriculum design, contributes to shaping the program’s enhanced focus on fostering AI literacy and ethical awareness. Together, the team aspires to cultivate a generation of young learners who are not only technologically adept but also critically mindful of the societal implications of robotics and artificial intelligence.

The impact of robot theater extends beyond isolated classrooms. It has been regularly conducted at Eastern Montgomery Elementary School, the Child Development Center for Learning and Research at Virginia Tech, and local childcare centers, making it an integral part of the community’s educational ecosystem. The program’s visibility was further amplified in 2022 when it showcased a professional-level performance at Virginia Tech’s Cube during Ut Prosim Society Weekend. This show artfully combined robotics, live music, and motion tracking technologies to raise awareness about climate change, exemplifying how robot theater can intersect with pressing global issues through creative performance.

Looking ahead, the NSF-backed expansion envisions broader dissemination of the program’s curriculum and materials, making them openly accessible on platforms like GitHub to encourage adoption and adaptation across diverse educational contexts nationwide. Moreover, the initiative seeks to venture beyond traditional classroom settings, introducing flexible formats such as one-day workshops and summer sessions, including implementation in museums and informal learning environments. This versatility aims to cater to varying learning preferences and schedules, generating wider engagement and impact.

From a technical standpoint, robot theater’s underlying philosophy capitalizes on the interplay between robotics hardware capabilities and software-driven AI functionalities, embedded within an artistic framework. The robots used in the program are designed to respond to children’s movements and gestures with real-time feedback, facilitated by sensors and motion tracking technologies. This interaction underscores key computational concepts such as sensor integration, signal processing, and algorithmic response, tangible in ways accessible to young learners. Simultaneously, the creative modules foster critical thinking about the design and ethical constraints of autonomous systems, encouraging reflection on how technology shapes human experiences.

The program’s commitment to embodied learning challenges traditional didactic models by placing students in active roles where they become co-creators of knowledge rather than passive recipients. This shift has profound implications for STEM education, especially in cultivating inclusivity and sustained interest among diverse populations who might otherwise view robotics and AI as intimidating or opaque fields. By embedding ethical inquiry within playful, interpersonal engagements with robots, the program promotes nuanced understandings of how technological artifacts operate within social and moral landscapes.

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly woven into the fabric of daily life, early education in AI ethics assumes critical importance. Robot theater’s pioneering methodology offers a replicable model for how technology and arts integration can nurture responsible citizenship and technological fluency simultaneously. The program’s future iterations, supported by robust empirical research such as literature reviews, focus groups, and participatory workshops, will further refine pedagogical strategies geared toward identifying gaps in current AI education and optimizing curriculum responsiveness to learner needs.

In essence, Virginia Tech’s robot theater program exemplifies a forward-looking paradigm in STEM education—one that acknowledges the urgent necessity of ethical literacy while leveraging performance arts as an innovative medium for technology engagement. Supported by significant NSF funding, this initiative not only equips children with technical skills but also empowers them to interrogate the societal ramifications of robots and AI. Such an approach is poised to revolutionize how the next generation comprehends, interacts with, and ultimately shapes the future of intelligent machines and human collaboration.

Contact for further information is Chelsea Seeber at Virginia Tech, reachable via chelseab29@vt.edu or by phone at 540-231-2108.

Subject of Research: Robotics education, AI ethics, human-robot interaction, embodied learning in STEM education

Article Title: Ethical Robots and AI Take Center Stage in Virginia Tech’s Innovative Robot Theater Program

News Publication Date: September 15, 2025

Web References:

• http://ise.vt.edu
• http://eng.vt.edu
• https://liberalarts.vt.edu/departments-and-schools/department-of-human-development-and-family-science/faculty/koeun-choi.html
• https://hci.icat.vt.edu/research-directory/people/qin-zhu.html
• https://news.vt.edu/articles/2022/11/clahs-robottheater.html

Image Credits: Photo by Jordi Shelton for Virginia Tech

Keywords: Robotic learning, Science communication, Education technology, Robotic designs, Animatronics, Artificial intelligence

The CHARA Array, standing for the Center for High Angular Resolution Astronomy, is comprised of six highly sophisticated telescopes that work in unison to form what can be described as a colossal virtual telescope. By employing the advanced observational technique known as interferometry, these telescopes merge their light to produce extraordinarily detailed images of celestial bodies. The collaborative effort of these instruments allows astronomers to achieve resolutions that would otherwise be unattainable with standard telescope systems. The foresight to upgrade this impressive array comes amidst a growing recognition of the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in tackling complex astronomical questions.

This new funding will primarily focus on integrating cutting-edge optical systems, state-of-the-art tracking detectors, and advanced control systems into the CHARA Array. Such enhancements will facilitate simultaneous observations across multiple wavelengths of light, extending the facility’s observational spectrum and allowing researchers to gather more comprehensive data than ever before. “It’s a significant leap forward,” noted Array Director Gail Schaefer, emphasizing the role of such advancements in amplifying the research capabilities available to astronomers and students engaging with the mysteries of the cosmos.

As we delve deeper into the operational specifics of the CHARA Array, it becomes evident why this upgrade is so pivotal. The ability to function as a cohesive optical entity sets the CHARA Array apart from traditional telescopes. By combining light from its six individual telescopes, scientists can discern finer details in the astronomical objects they observe. This capability transforms the way researchers interpret data on phenomena ranging from nearby star systems to the most distant galaxies observed by humankind.

The anticipation surrounding the upgraded instrumentation is palpable among the academic community. Scheduled to be fully operational by 2028, the upgraded CHARA Array is expected to herald a wave of discoveries that could redefine our knowledge of cosmic processes. The enhancements will enable astronomers to investigate stellar nurseries, the formation of planetary systems, and the intricate structures of galaxies in a manner that was previously limited. This ambitious project illustrates a commitment not only to immediate research goals but also to developing a long-lasting scientific legacy.

The importance of synergy in scientific endeavors is also highlighted by the collaborative nature of the upgrades. The new equipment will evolve from the expertise of partners in esteemed academic institutions across the globe, including teams from the University of Michigan, the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom, and the Université de la Côte d’Azur in France. These partnerships signify a collective investment in advancing astronomical technology, ensuring that the CHARA Array remains at the forefront of innovation in high-precision observational astronomy.

In discussing the transformational potential of this upgrade, Doug Gies, Regents’ Professor of Physics and Astronomy and director of CHARA, remarks on the challenges faced by existing technology. The integration of disparate systems has previously hampered the array’s ability to perform simultaneous observations across various wavelengths. However, with new NSF funding, the facility is on the verge of overcoming these limitations, enabling researchers to explore the cosmos in ways that have previously been constrained by technological capacity.

The gravitational pull of this advancement extends beyond just the astronomy community; it symbolizes a broader commitment to educational opportunities for future generations. Georgia State University is keen on nurturing a talent pool that will drive future discoveries. This investment not only enhances research capabilities but also cultivates an environment for budding astronomers to engage productively with the latest tech in the field. It stands as a testament to the importance of foundational support in fostering innovation and preparing the next wave of scientists who will continue exploring the depths of space.

From the perspective of university administration, Georgia State Provost Nicolle Parsons-Pollard highlighted the grant as a testament to the institution’s dedication to academic excellence and research leadership. The upgrade positions the university firmly within the elite ranks of astronomical research institutions, establishing a reputation that will attract collaboration, sponsorship, and ambitious projects for years to come. By enhancing the CHARA Array’s capabilities, Georgia State University is not just improving its own research capacity, but is reinforcing the collaborative network of astronomical research as a whole.

As the narrative unfolds, one must acknowledge the role of the NSF in spearheading initiatives of this magnitude. Funding from the NSF’s Major Research Instrumentation program epitomizes the kind of collaborative investment necessary to push the boundaries of scientific exploration. Such funding initiatives are critical in not only sustaining current research but also in igniting curiosity and innovation across various scientific disciplines.

Ultimately, the evolution of the CHARA Array serves as a microcosm of the broader shifts occurring within the field of astronomy. Technologies continue to evolve, and with them, the potential for advancement in understanding our universe. This grant and the resulting upgrades may very well redefine the landscape of observational astronomy, generating a fruitful ground for research that spans galaxies, stellar formations, and the essential elements that compose our expansive universe.

By enhancing the capabilities of the CHARA Array, researchers are poised to experience a renaissance in astronomical observation. The possibilities arising from simultaneous observations in previously unattainable wavelengths symbolize not only a leap in technology but also a profound expansion of our inquiry into the workings of the universe. As we await the completion of these upgrades, the scientific community can look forward to groundbreaking discoveries that will inspire awe and fuel our quest for knowledge.

In conclusion, this transformative investment in the CHARA Array accentuates the ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of human understanding of the universe. Collaborative efforts, innovative technology, and a shared passion for discovery interweave through both academic and institutional support. As the forces of technology and curiosity align, we stand on the precipice of new astronomical revelations that will shape our knowledge for generations to come.

Subject of Research: Upgraded observational capabilities of the CHARA Array
Article Title: Unveiling the Cosmos: $1.39M Grant to Enhance CHARA Array’s Vision
News Publication Date: TBD
Web References: https://www.nsf.gov/, https://charaarray.gsu.edu/
References: N/A
Image Credits: Credit: Courtesy: Georgia State University

Keywords

Astronomy, CHARA Array, National Science Foundation, Extraterrestrial studies, Observational technology, Interferometry, Galactic exploration, Stellar nurseries, Research advancement, Scientific collaboration.

For long, evolutionary biology has heavily depended on these trees to depict relationships among species. While useful, these conventional models reveal their limitations in various real-world applications. Nakhleh articulates the inadequacy of tree-based models, particularly in situations involving hybridization, gene flow, and horizontal gene transfer—processes that cannot be cleanly represented in a branched format. Through PhyNetPy, Nakhleh seeks to introduce flexible, network-based models capable of capturing the tangled web of evolutionary histories.

PhyNetPy stands out as a potential game-changer in the field; despite existing numerous tools tailored for phylogenetic tree analysis, resources specifically addressing the needs of phylogenetic networks remain scarce. This initiative aims to pioneer a robust open-source, general-purpose Python library designed specifically for this purpose, offering essential tools that have yet to be comprehensively integrated into a single platform.

Nakhleh’s vision for PhyNetPy encompasses more than merely creating inference tools; he aspires to establish a holistic software ecosystem. The project will include an array of data structures, simulation engines, and visualization capabilities, complemented by a user-friendly interface that lowers entry barriers. This accessibility aims to engage not only biologists but also computer scientists, enabling broader participation in evolutionary modeling and advancing scientific inquiry.

Moreover, PhyNetPy emphasizes compatibility with existing analytical tools, ensuring seamless interoperability with well-known platforms such as DendroPy, ETE Toolkit, and Biopython. Users will benefit from cloud deployment, negating the need for complex installations or configurations. By streamlining the user experience, the project aspires to broaden the demographic of researchers engaging in evolutionary studies, furthering the potential for collaborative discovery.

Traditional phylogenetic trees are built on the foundation that evolution is a strictly bifurcating process, wherein species split apart without ever merging again. Contrary to this oversimplified view, evolutionary history is frequently far more intricate. Phenomena such as hybridization, particularly prevalent in plants, as well as gene flow among animals and horizontal gene transfer within bacterial communities create intricate reticulate patterns. These complex networks present a more accurate reflection of biological diversity and evolutionary processes.

Nakhleh highlights the significant implications of these complexities, especially within agricultural contexts where hybrid crops exhibit characteristics that surpass those of their parent species—a concept known as hybrid vigor. Understanding these phenomena at the genomic level necessitates the adoption of network models capable of delving into the underlying genetic interconnections. The ramifications extend beyond mere academic interest, shedding light on practical applications that can yield valuable insights for crop development and ecological management.

Not limited solely to the plant kingdom, hybridization also appears throughout the animal domain, with studies indicating that at least ten percent of animal species have undergone hybridization events. This reality underscores the urgency of employing comprehensive network models to unearth critical insights into the intricacies of evolution, providing a more detailed understanding of the life’s tapestry on our planet.

Beyond the immediate goals of PhyNetPy, one of its more ambitious aspirations is to bridge the divide between the phylogenetics and population genetics communities. Historically, these two fields have operated within their respective silos, utilizing different terminologies and models to investigate analogous evolutionary questions. While phylogeneticists may favor the term “networks,” population geneticists often refer to “graphs,” such as ancestral recombination graphs and admixture graphs. Although labeled differently, these mathematical constructs convey equivalent concepts and insights.

By creating a unified framework through PhyNetPy, Nakhleh aims to foster collaboration and enhance communication between these two research communities. The synergy generated by utilizing shared terminology and tools is anticipated to accelerate discoveries across the board, facilitating a deeper understanding of evolutionary mechanisms and fostering interdisciplinary cooperation that could yield innovative breakthroughs.

The five-year project, funded by the NSF, comprises a thorough structure segmented into five technical thrusts, focusing on data structures, inference algorithms, simulation tools, network characterization techniques, and visualization methods. Nakhleh and his dedicated team plan to reimplement and expand upon the successful methodologies derived from his earlier project, PhyloNet, thereby enhancing scalability, user-friendliness, and cloud readiness. Importantly, education and outreach efforts will be interwoven into the project, with undergraduate and graduate students actively participating in the development of PhyNetPy and its integration into academic curricula at Rice University.

This initiative goes beyond mere software development; it is about curating a vibrant scientific community. Nakhleh envisions PhyNetPy as a collaborative platform where researchers can contribute novel methodologies, exchange ideas, and work in unison to push the boundaries of evolutionary science. The democratization of such advanced tools holds the promise of elevating research capabilities and enriching academic discourse within the field of evolutionary biology.

The overarching aim of PhyNetPy resonates with the research community’s ongoing quest for knowledge, highlighting the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in solving complex biological questions. As researchers embrace this new frontier of evolutionary modeling, they stand on the precipice of profound discoveries, reshaping our understanding of life’s interconnected web through groundbreaking computational advances and evolutionary insights.

Subject of Research: Development of an open-source software library for phylogenetic networks
Article Title: Revolutionizing Evolutionary Biology: How PhyNetPy Will Transform Our Understanding of Life
News Publication Date: [Not provided]
Web References: [Not provided]
References: [Not provided]
Image Credits: Jeff Fitlow/Rice University

Keywords

Evolution, Phylogenetics, Evolutionary developmental biology, Computer modeling

ICERM’s model thrives on the interdisciplinary convergence of ideas, emphasizing that mathematics progresses most robustly when scholars convene to exchange perspectives. Brendan Hassett, director of ICERM and a distinguished professor at Brown, underscores the institute’s role not merely as a center for theoretical exploration but as a crucible where mathematics intersects dynamically with neuroscience, engineering, computer science, and burgeoning fields such as artificial intelligence. The grant renewal signifies NSF’s confidence in ICERM’s strategy of breaking down disciplinary silos, fostering cross-pollination that sparks discoveries fundamental to both pure mathematics and applied sciences.

Mathematical innovation today demands computational power and experimental methodologies once unimaginable. ICERM addresses this by weaving advanced computational techniques into traditional mathematical inquiry, creating a fertile ground for research that leverages algorithmic design, data analysis, and simulation. Hosting an array of full-semester programs, intensive weeklong workshops, and public engagements, ICERM has nurtured a vibrant intellectual community that not only advances abstract mathematical theories but also innovates practical solutions to complex challenges. These initiatives attract roughly 2,000 visitors annually, reflecting the institute’s global stature and the vitality of its academic ecosystem.

Among ICERM’s recent research highlights is an exploration of the mathematical underpinnings of neuroscience. This work bridges topology, geometry, and algebra with neural dynamics, providing a rigorous framework to decipher the brain’s complex structures and functions. Such interdisciplinary ventures open avenues for new computational models that enhance our understanding of cognitive processes, elevating the mathematical sciences as vital contributors to solving biological enigmas. Moreover, the institute has delved into evolutionary mathematics, developing models to explain genetic relationships and species divergence, which have implications for computational biology and conservation efforts.

Attention to environmental phenomena has also been a hallmark of ICERM’s programming. Notably, one workshop studied dynamic wave behavior in the Arctic Ocean—a domain where mathematical modeling intersects with climate science and oceanography. Through these studies, mathematicians contribute to predicting environmental change, influencing policies on climate resilience. Similarly, investigations into gravitational waves have underscored the institute’s commitment to merging abstract mathematics with the tangible fabric of the cosmos, aligning with cutting-edge physics and enhancing computational methods for decoding cosmic signals.

Looking forward, ICERM’s agenda prominently features research at the nexus of artificial intelligence and mathematics. Recognizing AI as both a tool and a challenge for mathematical sciences, ICERM plans to deepen investigations into how AI models can be trained more efficiently through the mathematical structuring of large datasets and algorithmic refinement. This includes the development of algorithms that enable scientific computing tasks—such as simulating fluid dynamics around aerodynamic surfaces—to be executed with greater precision and speed. By advancing these methods, ICERM aspires to propel AI’s integration into scientific inquiry while addressing the computational bottlenecks inherent to complex simulations.

An equally captivating direction involves leveraging pure mathematics to unravel AI’s own complexities. Because pure mathematical problems offer definitive criteria for truth, they provide ideal benchmarks for evaluating AI decision-making and diagnosing why AI systems sometimes generate erroneous or ‘hallucinatory’ outputs. This symbiosis between mathematical proof systems and AI validation is poised to improve the reliability, transparency, and interpretability of machine learning models, facilitating more trustworthy AI implementations in critical sectors including national security and advanced engineering.

A particularly innovative domain ICERM will pursue is metric algebraic geometry, an emergent branch combining classic algebraic geometry with metric space concepts—distance, curvature, and size—to analyze solutions to polynomial equations through a geometric lens. This approach not only enriches theoretical understanding but also holds promise for practical applications in industrial design, computer graphics, and materials science, pointing toward a new paradigm where abstract math directly informs modeling and fabrication of complex shapes and structures.

ICERM’s collaborative environment is reflected in the diverse team of principal investigators helmed by Hassett, with notable contributions from Javier Gómez-Serrano, Caroline Klivans, Björn Sandstede, and Jill Pipher, whose combined expertise spans pure and applied mathematics as well as institutional leadership. Together, they supervise a vibrant portfolio of programs that galvanize the mathematics community to engage with pressing scientific challenges, fostering innovation at the computational-mathematical interface.

The economic impact of ICERM extends beyond academia, stimulating Rhode Island’s local economy and enhancing its stature as a hub for research excellence. Senator Jack Reed notes that federal support for ICERM has catalyzed a ‘brain gain,’ attracting top-tier talent to the region and nurturing collaborations that bridge academia, industry, and government. This fusion promotes technological advances that resonate at national and global scales, enhancing competitiveness in a rapidly evolving landscape defined by AI-driven innovation and scientific computation.

As ICERM approaches its 20th anniversary, its trajectory epitomizes how an institution rooted in fundamental mathematics can transform into a powerhouse of computational experimentation, interdisciplinary investigation, and societal impact. The new NSF funding not only affirms past successes but also empowers ICERM to chart the future of mathematical inquiry, leveraging computation and AI to tackle some of the most formidable questions in science and engineering today.

In sum, ICERM stands as a blueprint for how funding agencies, research institutions, and scientific communities can synergize to push the boundaries of knowledge. By cultivating spaces where curiosity intersects with computation and collaboration, it fosters breakthroughs that reverberate through technology, education, and the global quest to decode complex systems. As the institute embarks on this new chapter, its integration of mathematics and artificial intelligence promises to redefine the contours of scientific exploration in the 21st century.

Subject of Research: Computational and Experimental Mathematics; Interface of Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence; Metric Algebraic Geometry; Neuroscience-related Mathematical Models; Evolutionary Mathematics

Article Title: Brown University’s ICERM Secures $16.5 Million NSF Grant to Accelerate Computational Mathematics and AI Research

News Publication Date: July 30, 2024

Web References: https://icerm.brown.edu/

Image Credits: Brown University

Keywords: Mathematics; Computational Mathematics; Artificial Intelligence; Metric Algebraic Geometry; Neuroscience; Evolutionary Mathematics; Gravitational Waves; Climate Modeling