Machine Learning and AI - College of Information (INFO)

Machine Learning, AI, Computational Linguistics, and Information Retrieval

Developing methods that allow computers to perform learned tasks autonomously, creating practical solutions for human needs.

Research Projects

MAITC Pilot A34 – MAITC Pilot A: Empowering Caregivers of Individuals with Cognitive Impairment to Make Safe Nonprescription Drug Decisions
Principal Investigator(s): Eun Kyoung Choe
Funder: National Institute on Aging (NIH) National Institutes of Health
Research Areas: Accessibility and Inclusive Design > Health Informatics > Human-Computer Interaction > Machine Learning, AI, Computational Linguistics, and Information Retrieval
This project introduces Aidara, an AI-powered digital health system designed to help caregivers make safer over-the-counter medication decisions for individuals with cognitive impairments. By using large language models to simplify and present drug information through multimodal formats- including text, speech, and visuals- Aidara aims to enhance understanding, reduce health risks, and improve self-guided medication management.
CAREER: Self-Directed Human-LLM Coordination for Language Learning and Information Seeking
Principal Investigator(s): Ge Gao
Funder: National Science Foundation
Research Areas: Accessibility and Inclusive Design > Health Informatics > Human-Computer Interaction > Information Justice, Human Rights, and Technology Ethics > Machine Learning, AI, Computational Linguistics, and Information Retrieval > Youth Experience, Learning, and Digital Practices
This project uses AI-powered digital tutors to help individuals with limited majority-language proficiency improve their language skills for real-world information seeking. By enabling users to design personalized tutoring systems, the study advances language learning, AI literacy, and human-computer interaction.
Human-Like Coaching for Home PT Exercises
Principal Investigator(s): Galina Madjaroff Reitz
Funder: Maryland Industrial Partnerships UMD Funded
Research Areas: Health Informatics > Human-Computer Interaction > Machine Learning, AI, Computational Linguistics, and Information Retrieval
Researchers are developing an AI-powered physical therapy coach that uses real-time motion tracking and personalized feedback to improve exercise adherence and outcomes. By simulating human-like interaction and emotional engagement, the project aims to make home-based rehabilitation more effective and accessible.

Recent News

Government surveillance agency and military joint operation agent working at system control center

Photo licensed by Adobe Stock

When the Feed Becomes the Front Line

Laurie Robinson - April 15, 2026
A new generation of AI tools is changing how analysts and aid workers make sense of war in real time—if they can learn to trust what …
Middle age woman using smartphone holding pills at home

Photo licensed by Adobe Stock

For Caregivers Making Over-the-Counter Medication Decisions Alone, Help May Be on the Way

Laurie Robinson - April 15, 2026
A new generation of AI tools is changing how analysts and aid workers make sense of war in real time—if they can learn to trust what …
Head shot of HCIM alum Kaush Ganesh Portrait of a woman wearing glasses and a maroon sweater, standing inside a gondola with soft pink and red tones and a blurred cityscape outside.

Kaush Ganesh, HCIM '20

Alumni Profile: The Human Firewall: Why Cybersecurity Needs UX

Laurie Robinson - April 15, 2026
A new generation of AI tools is changing how analysts and aid workers make sense of war in real time—if they can learn to trust what …