CSU Faculty and Students Visit Argonne National Laboratory to Explore Advanced Scientific Research

A group of 12 undergraduate and graduate students and three faculty members from Chicago State University's Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST) visited Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) on November 5, 2026, to explore cutting-edge research facilities, advanced computing technologies, and opportunities for student research and internships.

The visit was organized by Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, Professor and Chair of CIMST, in collaboration with Argonne National Laboratory. Joining Dr. Salam were Dr. Rumman Rafi, Assistant Professor of Computer Science, and Dr. Oluwasegun Ibrahim, Assistant Professor of Mathematics.

During the visit, the CSU delegation explored several of Argonne's world-class scientific research facilities. The group visited the Argonne Leadership Computing Facility (ALCF), home to Aurora, one of the world's first exascale supercomputers, capable of performing more than a billion billion calculations per second. Students gained exposure to the role of high-performance computing and artificial intelligence in advancing scientific discoveries.

The group also visited Argonne's Visualization Laboratory, featuring the Active Mural, a large-scale interactive display that enables researchers to visualize and analyze complex scientific datasets. Another highlight was the Advanced Photon Source (APS), a leading X-ray research facility that supports groundbreaking discoveries in materials science, engineering, and biological research.

A speaker addresses a group of students standing in a semi-circle inside a modern building lobby with large floor-to-ceiling windows.

An instructor points to data visualizations displayed on a massive floor-to-ceiling digital screen wall while a group of students watches from colorful round stools and chairs.

A group of students stands posed in a long line behind a large outdoor white stone signage monument outside a modern research building.

In addition to the laboratory tours, the students participated in an informational session led by Robert Schuch, University Partnership Program Manager at Argonne. The session introduced undergraduate and graduate research internships and provided opportunities to learn about research experiences at the national laboratory.

A group of six students have lunch at a table inside a large cafeteria with floor-to-ceiling windows and dark gray walls.

A group of eight students having lunch around a round wooden table.

Three students having lunch in a booth next to a large window.

The visit offered students valuable exposure to real-world applications of artificial intelligence, supercomputing, scientific visualization, and advanced research technologies. It also provided opportunities to explore potential research collaborations and strengthen connections between Chicago State University and Argonne National Laboratory.

CIMST extends its appreciation to Robert Schuch and the Argonne scientists and staff for organizing and hosting an informative and engaging visit.

Chicago State University's Dr. Salam and a group of students in front of gray wall with the Argonne National Laboratory logo prominently displayed.

The department remains committed to providing students with experiential learning opportunities, connecting classroom education with advanced scientific research, and preparing the next generation of computing, mathematics, and technology professionals.