Life Sciences Seminar: Bioinformatics and the Artificial Intelligence in Sustainability

Life Sciences Seminar (FFCEP)
Bioinformatics and the Artificial Intelligence in Sustainability

Dr. Edwin Solares
Lecturer
University of California, San Diego

Abstract:
As the global population continues to grow so do the negative anthropogenic consequences to food security, species diversity and disease. Climate change is increasing temperatures and climate variability leading to rising maximum temperatures, extreme weather, and an increase in extreme temperatures. These changes are lading to widespread loss in crop yields and species viability and the further spread of disease, which will only worsen with time. Advanced methods such as AI are needed to develop solutions to this growing problem. In my work, I apply AI and machine learning to genomic and visual data, with a focus on addressing food insecurity, species rescue, and rapid/early detection systems. The basis of this work is leveraging and developing open-source intelligent algorithms in genomics, modeling, automation, and classification and detection methods. This presentation will describe our efforts to leverage computer vision and decision making based on inference for phenotype quantification and species rescue in avocado, red abalone and sturgeon,  Our team seeks to develop autonomous platforms for data collection for phenotype quantification of thousands of individual trees and on site sex determination for scaling up breeding efforts of endangered species.   

Speaker Bio:
Dr. Solares has a BS in computer science and a Ph.D. in biology and is interested in genetics and genomics of plants as well as artificial intelligence and machine learning applications in bioinformatics, agricultural systems and species rescue. Dr. Solares’ research focuses on harnessing artificial intelligence for obtaining a sustainable future for all in the face of our rapidly changing climate.  His research group leverages and develops open source intelligent algorithms in genomics automation and classification/detection. He also does research at exploring the evolutionary genetics behind food crops and indigenous species. 

Intended Audience:
All are Welcome!