CosmicAI Hybrid Seminar Series
Title: Transcending the Limits of Astrostatistics with Machine Learning Methods
Speaker: Yuan-Sen Ting, Associate Professor at Ohio State | Adjunct Scientist at Max Planck Institute
Date: Wednesday, April 9 2025
Time: 1:00 PM CST
Venue: PMA 15.216B at UT Austin
Abstract:
Recent advancements in astronomical instrumentation have led to an unprecedented influx of data, revolutionizing the field of astronomy. However, the inherent complexity and multi-dimensionality of astronomical observations, ranging from intricate imaging of weak lensing, reionization, and protoplanetary disks to the comprehensive analysis of galaxy mergers across cosmic history, pose significant challenges to traditional astrostatistical methods.
In this colloquium, I will discuss two distinct machine learning approaches aimed at tackling these complex astronomical systems. First, I will explore the Mathematics of Information, focusing on how machine learning can optimize information compression and extract higher-order moments in stochastic processes.
Second, I will introduce a Generative AI paradigm, demonstrating how generative models, such as normalizing flows and diffusion models, enable precise modeling of astronomical datasets, facilitating accurate inferences on intricate astronomical systems. By leveraging these cutting-edge machine learning techniques, we can transcend the limitations of conventional astrostatistics, furthering making robust inferences on complex astronomical systems.
Speaker Bio
Yuan-Sen is an Associate Professor of Astronomy at Ohio State University and an Adjunct Scientist at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy. He earned his Ph.D. in Astrophysics and Astronomy from Harvard and has held prestigious fellowships, including the NASA Hubble and Carnegie-Princeton Fellowships. His research leverages deep learning and AI for astrophysical data modeling, resulting in over 200 publications and a Nature cover story. Passionate about science outreach, he has organized major astronomy conferences in Malaysia, written for leading newspapers, and created popular TED-Ed videos.
Recording link here