Train Like a Future Researcher

Research-oriented AI and mathematical thinking program for highly motivated students

Mentored by professors from San Diego State University

Applications for Future Cohorts Are Now Open
ABOUT THE PROGRAM

AI & Mathematical Research Program

The AI & Mathematical Research Program is a research-oriented online educational initiative designed for highly motivated middle and high school students interested in artificial intelligence, mathematics, computer science, optimization, robotics, research, and innovation.

The program is developed and mentored by SDSU faculty members with expertise in mathematics, optimization, artificial intelligence, and computer science.

The goal of the initiative is to provide students with early exposure to university-level research thinking, project-based learning, and advanced STEM pathways while strengthening long-term educational outreach and engagement.

Artificial Intelligence

Mathematics

Computer Science

Optimization

Robotics

Research & Innovation

Course Previews

Curriculum

A 6-week research-oriented pathway in AI, mathematics, programming, modeling, and final project development.

01
WEEK 1

Mathematical Thinking & Foundations of AI

Introduction to AI Problem-Solving Frameworks Python Foundations Logic & Algorithmic Reasoning Optimization & Modeling GitHub Setup
02
WEEK 2

Data Science & Machine Learning Basics

Data Visualization Regression & Classification Probability for AI Machine Learning Workflows Research Paper Reading Project Proposal
03
WEEK 3

Mathematical Modeling & Optimization

Linear Algebra for AI Optimization Concepts Neural Networks Overview Modeling Real-World Systems Research Communication Midpoint Demo
04
WEEK 4

Research Skills & AI Applications

AI Ethics Autonomous Systems AI in Healthcare & Robotics Academic Paper Reading Academic Writing Draft Presentation Slides
05
WEEK 5

Advanced Projects & College Preparation

Advanced AI Applications Academic Portfolio Research Opportunities College Preparation Final Project Development Mock Research Presentation
06
WEEK 6

Final Showcase & Future Pathways

Final Presentations Parent Showcase Feedback Sessions Long-Term Mentorship Reflection Essay Certificate of Completion Recorded Showcase

Program Outcomes

By the end of the program, students will gain the skills, confidence, and research mindset needed to continue growing in AI, mathematics, and STEM learning.

AI Foundations

Understand foundational AI concepts and modern applications.

Mathematical Reasoning

Apply mathematical thinking to real-world problems.

Technical Projects

Build and present meaningful technical projects.

Research Communication

Develop clear academic and research presentation skills.

STEM Exposure

Gain exposure to university-level STEM learning.

Academic Confidence

Strengthen academic confidence, curiosity, and independence.

Certificate of Completion

Receive a certificate recognizing successful completion of the program.

Faculty & Students

Meet the mentors and students building a research-focused learning community in AI, mathematics, and computational thinking.

Dr. Nguyen Truc Dao Nguyen Program Director

Dr. Nguyen Truc Dao Nguyen

About

Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics (WSU); SDSU Assistant Professor; Founder of VAOLab

Expertise

Machine Learning, optimization, data science, optimal control, and applications in engineering, medicine, economics, biology

Featured Achievements

Sponsored by National Science Foundation, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, $25,000.00. Published in SIAM Journal on Control and Optimization and Journal of Differential Equations, and serves as a Guest Editor for JOTA.

Dr. Hoa Nguyen Curriculum Advisor

Dr. Hoa Vu

About

Ph.D. in Computer Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst; Associate Professor at San Diego State University

Expertise

Streaming, distributed algorithms, and algorithms with machine learning predictions

Featured Achievements

Sponsored by National Science Foundation, San Diego State University, $200,000.00.

Nhan Le Student Mentor

Nhan Le

About

M.S in Big Data Analytics, San Diego State University

Expertise

Machine learning, optimization, healthcare resource distribution

Featured Achievements

SDSU 2026-2027 Master’s Research Scholarship (MRS)

Yen Dang Student Mentor

Yen Dang

About

MA in Mathematics, San Diego State University

Expertise

Optimization, Machine Learning, Aerodynamics

Featured Achievements

NAMPs, Sailor of Quater, Safety Pro.

Trinh Ho Student Mentor

Trinh Ho

About

B.S. in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, and Statistics (Triple Major), SDSU

Expertise

Applied Mathematics, Machine Learning, and Computer Vision

Featured Achievements

Qualified for Computer Science State competion LSU. Cyber Patriot National Competion Qualified.

Robert Nguyen Student Mentor

Robert Tran

About

B.S. in Applied Mathematics and Finance, SDSU (Double Major)

Expertise

Applied Mathematics, Data Science, Scientific Computing

Featured Achievements

The President’s Award for Outstanding Academic Excellence. Departmental Honors in Mathematics (UCHS, 2025): 1 of 3 students selected out of a student body of 1,500+.

Hamish Arora Student Mentor

Hamish Arora

About

B.S. in Applied Mathematics, emphasis in Computational Science, SDSU

Expertise

Applied Mathematics, Scientific Computing

Featured Achievements

Published a Paper About Polygonal Numbers AP Scholar with Distinction Award 2024

HANDS-ON LEARNING

Student Projects

Students apply AI, mathematics, computer vision, web development, and optimization concepts through research-inspired projects.

Computer vision image reconstruction project
Computer Vision

Image Reconstruction

Explore image transformations, scaling, warping, and visual recovery techniques.

Geometric transformation project
Mathematics

Geometric Transformations

Learn translation, scaling, rotation, coordinate systems, and image alignment.

SMS spam detector project
Machine Learning

SMS Spam Detector

Build a model that classifies text messages as spam or not spam.

Robotics and optimization project
Optimization

Robotics & Control

Study robot motion, controllers, trajectories, and optimization-based decision making.

Robotics simulation project
Robotics

Robotics Simulation

Program virtual robots using Scratch and Python while learning sensors, movement, and control logic.

Computer vision project
Computer Vision

Computer Vision

Learn image classification, localization, object detection, and semantic segmentation through hands-on AI projects.

Data visualization dashboard project
Data Science

Data Visualization Dashboard

Analyze real-world datasets and create visual dashboards to uncover trends, patterns, and insights.

Route plan optimization project
Optimization

Route Plan Optimization

Use algorithms and mathematical optimization to design efficient routes and improve travel or delivery planning.

Traffic flow prediction project
Machine Learning

Traffic Flow Prediction

Analyze transportation data and develop machine learning models to predict traffic congestion and optimize urban mobility.

Recommendation system project
Machine Learning

Recommendation System

Build a recommendation model that suggests movies, products, or content using collaborative filtering techniques.

Facial emotion recognition project
Artificial Intelligence

Facial Emotion Recognition

Train machine learning models to identify human emotions from facial images and video streams.

Autonomous drone navigation project
Robotics

Autonomous Drone Navigation

Program UAVs to navigate environments, coordinate movement, avoid obstacles, and reach target locations using AI and control algorithms.

Autonomous vehicle sensor simulation
Robotics

Autonomous Vehicle Navigation

Explore self-driving vehicle systems using radar, LiDAR, and camera sensor data to detect obstacles, understand road environments, and make safe navigation decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply?

Highly motivated students from Grades 6 - 12 who are interested in AI, mathematics, and research-oriented learning are encouraged to apply.

Is there any tuition required for the program?

Yes. The regular tuition is $945 and supports SDSU instructors and mentors while covering hands-on AI and robotics activities, research opportunities, project mentoring, and the SDSU campus experience. Students who complete registration by August 1, 2026, are eligible for a discounted Early Bird Tuition rate of $645, representing a 31% savings.

Do I need prior programming experience?

No. We welcome beginners as long as they are eager to learn and committed to problem solving.

How are students selected?

Selection is based on motivation, academic curiosity, and performance in the application process.

Will students work on projects?

Yes. Students will have opportunities to choose to work on research-oriented projects across multiple areas of AI, including Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing, Machine Learning, and Mathematical Modeling.

What is the duration of the program?

The program will run for 6 weeks, providing students with an intensive, research-focused learning experience in AI and mathematics. Multiple cohorts will be offered throughout the year. Accepted students will receive information about upcoming cohort schedules and may choose the cohort dates that best fit their availability.

Is the program in person?

The program follows a hybrid format. Students can participate from anywhere through online instruction and remote collaboration, with optional opportunities for in-person networking and events. Detailed schedules and start dates will be announced soon.

🎉 Early Bird Tuition: $645 — Save 31% off the regular $945 tuition!
APPLICATIONS

Ready to apply?
Start here.

Cohorts are intentionally small. We review applications on a rolling basis. Students who demonstrate mathematical curiosity and commitment to independent learning are prioritized.

1

Submit the full application form below.

2

A brief conversation with faculty to discuss your goals and background.

3

Enrollment confirmation and onboarding materials sent within one week.

Program Application

Complete the application below. Required fields must be filled out before submission.

Student Information

Academic Background

Student Essays

Project Interests

Parent/Guardian Information

Additional Materials

Program Expectations

ADMITTED STUDENTS

Student Portal & Tuition Payment

Tuition Payment & Enrollment Access

This portal is reserved for students who have been officially admitted to the AI & Mathematical Research Program. Please log in using the credentials provided in your admission email to access tuition payment instructions, enrollment materials, and program updates.

Contact Us

Have questions about the program, application process, or student eligibility? Contact us and we will get back to you soon.

Email

vaolab474@gmail.com

Faculty Affiliation

San Diego State University

Program Format

Fully Hybrid

This program is independently organized by San Diego State University (SDSU) faculty members and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by SDSU.