CIMST Faculty and Student Participate in Open SkAI Conference 2026

Faculty and a graduate student from Chicago State University’s Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST) participated in the Open SkAI Conference 2026, held from Tuesday, September 8, through Friday, September 11, 2026, on the 35th floor of the Hancock Center located at 172 E. Chestnut Street, Chicago, Illinois 60611.

The conference brought together researchers, scientists, students, and professionals working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, data science, astronomy, and related scientific disciplines.

Chicago State University Computer Science graduate student Mr. Ozgur Gurbuz presented a research paper titled “Probabilistic Deep Learning for Rare Event Detection in Astronomical Survey Data.” The research was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, Professor and Chair of CIMST at Chicago State University.

Mr. Gurbuz’s presentation highlighted the use of probabilistic deep learning methods for identifying rare events in large-scale astronomical survey data, demonstrating the growing role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in scientific discovery.

Chicago State University is a satellite partner institution of the SkAI Institute, providing opportunities for faculty and students to engage in interdisciplinary research and collaboration involving artificial intelligence and astronomy.

Dr. Salam also served as a member of the Scientific Organizing Committee for the Open SkAI Conference 2026, contributing to the planning and scientific activities of the conference.

During the event, Dr. Salam met and exchanged ideas with many scientists and NSF-Simons SkAI Institute leaders, including Dr. Vicky Kalogera, Director of the SkAI Institute and Daniel I. Linzer Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Northwestern University; Dr. Elise S. Ahn, Director of Operations and Outreach for the SkAI Institute; and Dr. Erin G. Cox, Assistant Director of Education and Outreach for the SkAI Institute.

These interactions provided opportunities to discuss research, education, student engagement, outreach, and potential future collaborations between Chicago State University and members of the broader SkAI research community.

Participation in the Open SkAI Conference 2026 reflects CIMST’s continued commitment to expanding opportunities for students and faculty in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, astronomy, and interdisciplinary scientific research. It also strengthens Chicago State University’s engagement with national research initiatives and creates additional opportunities for students to participate in advanced research and professional development.

Learn More:
Open SkAI Conference 2026 – Organizers
NSF-Simons SkAI Institute