Train Like a Future Researcher.

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

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ABOUT THE PROGRAM

AI & Mathematical Research Summer Program

The AI & Mathematical Research Summer 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

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 & Faculty Mentor

Dr. Nguyen Truc Dao Nguyen

About

Assistant Professor of Mathematics at San Diego State University and the founder of the Variational Analysis and Optimization Laboratory (VAOLab).

Expertise

Optimization, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and control theory, with applications to robotics, autonomous systems, healthcare, and engineering.

Featured Achievements

🏆 NSF-Funded Researcher 📖 Author of Foundations of Machine Learning 📑 Published in Leading Journals 🤖 AI, Robotics & Machine Learning Research 🎓 SDSU Professor 👨‍🎓 Students mentored into research and top universities

Dr. Hoa Nguyen Faculty Mentor

Dr. Hoa Vu

Education

Ph.D. in Computer Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Research Interests

Streaming, distributed algorithms, and algorithms with machine learning predictions

Academic Achievements

Sponsored by National Science Foundation, San Diego State University, $200,000.00. Sponsored by National Science Foundation, San Diego State University, $596,118.00 Sponsored by National Science Foundation, San Diego State University, $200.00

Trinh Ho Student Mentor

Trinh Ho

Education

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

Research Interests

Applied Mathematics, Machine Learning, and Computer Vision

Academic Achievements

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

Robert Nguyen Student Mentor

Robert Tran

Education

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

Research Interests

Applied Mathematics, Data Science, Scientific Computing

Academic 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+.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply?

Highly motivated students from K8 - K12 who are interested in AI, mathematics, and research-oriented learning are encouraged to apply.

Is there any tuition required for the program?

Yes. The program tuition is $1,000. This fee helps support the faculty, student mentors, and program staff who contribute their time, expertise and guidance throughout the program.

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 runs for 6 weeks beginning in August, providing students with an intensive and research-focused learning experience in AI and mathematics.

Is the program in person?

No. The program is fully online, allowing students to participate from anywhere while attending live sessions, collaborating with mentors, and engaging in research-focused activities remotely. Detailed schedules, meeting times, and program starting dates will be announced at a later time.

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

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

Institution

San Diego State University

Program Format

Fully Online