Amy Chen, a junior majoring in Information Systems in Stony Brook University's College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, has been selected for the highly competitive SUNY Summer Opportunities for Academic Research (SOAR) program for summer 2025. Chen will spend ten weeks developing an innovative artificial intelligence system designed to automatically detect ozone-caused damage on plant leaves and will , working under the mentorship of Dr. Guanyu Huang from the Program in Public Health and the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences.
The research project represents an exciting intersection of computer science and environmental science, connecting to a NASA-supported ozone garden initiative that addresses critical environmental monitoring challenges. Chen's AI system will utilize advanced machine learning techniques, specifically convolutional neural networks (CNNs), to analyze images from cameras and accurately identify signs of ozone pollution damage on vegetation.
"What particularly excites me about this project is the opportunity to learn about and implement convolutional neural networks in a practical application," Chen explained. "The continuous learning process involved in developing this system, with each step introducing new concepts and challenges, has only deepened my interest in artificial intelligence and its environmental applications."
Chen's journey to this prestigious research opportunity reflects a unique blend of technological curiosity and environmental consciousness. Initially fascinated by the technical aspects of computing and how complex systems are constructed, she later recognized the importance of balancing her passion for technology with her love for the natural world. This realization led her to pursue a minor in Environmental Studies, alongside her Information Systems degree.
Her academic preparation includes foundational programming courses CSE 160 and 161, which provided essential technical skills in both procedural and object-oriented programming paradigms. Additionally, her environmental coursework in ENS 101 offered comprehensive coverage of global environmental change, establishing the interdisciplinary foundation necessary for her current research.
The SUNY SOAR program, running from May 27th through August 1st, 2025, requires participants to attend workshop sessions each Monday and Wednesday while conducting intensive research. This structure provides Chen with ongoing support and professional development throughout her ten-week experience.
"Amy's selection for the SOAR program reflects her academic excellence and commitment to addressing environmental challenges through innovative technological solutions," noted a program representative. The project exemplifies the type of cutting-edge research that characterizes modern computational approaches to environmental science.
Chen's participation aligns perfectly with her long-term career objectives of pursuing graduate studies that explore the intersection of technology and environmental science. She views data analysis and artificial intelligence as essential tools for addressing significant environmental problems and developing future environmental solutions.
The research experience will provide Chen with crucial skills including project design and implementation, scientific communication, and networking opportunities within the field. These competencies will support her future academic endeavors and potential contributions to computational environmental research.