Our People

Jal Irani is a Lecturer in the Computer and Information Sciences, where he teaches introductory computing and AI literacy courses. As Assistant Director, he leads TAI’s community engagement portfolio, including the AI Clinic, hands-on AI trainings, and partnerships with regional organizations.

Alexei Kolesnikov is professor of Mathematics and founding Director of the Towson AI Institute. His research spans mathematical logic and theoretical machine learning. He has directed the Applied Mathematics Laboratory, which partners student teams with industry and community sponsors, and previously served as Director of Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry. He is a recipient of the 2025 USM Board of Regents Faculty Award for mentoring.

Pamela Lottero-Perdue is Professor of Science and Engineering Education in the Department of Physics, Astronomy & Geosciences. A mechanical engineer by training, she studies how teachers learn to teach science and engineering, with National Science Foundation-funded work on simulated classroom environments and teacher preparation. As Associate Director, she leads TAI's education and workforce development portfolio.

Wei Yu is Professor of Computer and Information Sciences. His research focuses on applied machine learning, cybersecurity, and cyber-physical systems, and has been supported by the National Science Foundation — including through an NSF CAREER award — and other federal agencies. As Associate Director, he leads TAI's research and innovation portfolio, connecting faculty across disciplines with AI research infrastructure and collaborations.