Meet the DHS Summer Research Team Program members at CIRI
A variety of researchers from all over the country came to CIRI to participate in the Department of Homeland Security's Summer Research Team.
The Department of Homeland Security hosts a program that allows early career faculty from Minority Serving Institutions to conduct research at one of DHS’s 12 Centers of Excellence.
We asked several researchers about their projects. We also dove into their passion behind their work and what their lives are like outside of the lab!
Dr. Oluponmile Olonilua
Meet Texas Southern University professor Dr. Oluponmile Olonilua! Her project proposes a “human solution” that addresses the physical and human dimensions. She seeks to research and develop educational and training materials for students K-12 on the importance of interdependence of critical infrastructure and resilience.
Read Dr. Oluponmile Olonilua's profile
Dr. Francis Tuluri
Meet Jackson State University's Dr. Francis Tuluri. His project focuses on Cyber Physical Systems, Internet of Things and Security. He stated that the Summer Research Team has led him to new technological developments within the field and has provided him with a platform to continue strengthening sustainability.
Read Dr. Francis Tuluri's profile
Dr. Jiang Guo
California State University computer science professor Dr. Jiang Guo focuses on using machine learning technologies that enhance transportation resilience, specifically in facilitating mass evacuations during major disasters. Dr. Guo states that this opportunity inspires him and historically under-represented students to participate in DHS-related research and encourages minority students to pursue data science and artificial intelligence-related careers in DHS.
Tanikka Thrasher
Meet Texas Southern University researcher Tanikka Thrasher! Her current work focuses on understanding how to build stronger infrastructure that can withstand natural disasters and improve community resilience in the face of such events. With this research, she hopes to bring awareness to the youth.
Read Tanikka Thrasher's profile