Ted Pavlic, an ASU associate professor, is opening new interdisciplinary frontiers in computer science and engineering. He is the inaugural Chair of the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence. This new school is one of six that comprise the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University (ASU). His work has made it impossible to underestimate the key role that technology must play. Further, he embodies the interdisciplinary nature of biological sciences with his shared appointment in ASU’s School of Life Sciences.
Out of Pavlic’s research grows new, innovative directions that combine computing and biology in exciting ways. This rare intersection equips him to question how natural processes can dramatically shape or change digital models. He’s especially interested in explaining the inner workings of complicated systems. He has unique interdisciplinary expertise in computer and life sciences. This rare mix of skillsets rings true when he provides informed insight in areas that require a holistic understanding of the intersection of technology and biology.
As such, the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering has received national acclaim for its dedication to creating an environment that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration. Pavlic’s talent truly stands out in such a creative, inclusive and inspiring environment. He is at the forefront of addressing grand challenges that lie at the intersection of engineering and biological sciences. He applies scientific, economic, and historic concepts in ways that haven’t always been done before. His passion lies in creating innovative solutions that solve real-world problems, which fuels technological advancement and increases our ecological understanding.
Pavlic’s home is in the School of Life Sciences, where he has a joint appointment. In this role, Eric is able to pursue his interests in computational approaches to modeling and replicating biological systems. This deep technical perspective is critical for developing equitable algorithms and models. Only then will they be able to solve the thorniest challenges like environmental sustainability and the future of artificial intelligence.
Pavlic’s collaborative research creates a rich experiential loop that feeds back into his academic endeavors. It further advances ASU’s charter mission by fostering innovation, moving ideas, knowledge and creativity across a broad spectrum of fields. Squinting into the future, his efforts illustrate the power of bringing diverse disciplines together to produce innovative breakthroughs. At the same time, their innovations feed society as a whole.
