Mihai Udrescu

My research at Carnegie Mellon University under the supervision of Professor Radu Marculescu started as a continuation of our previous collaboration in the fields of complex systems and applied network science. However, working day by day and side by side is vastly superior to any remote cooperation. Indeed, during my Fulbright visit, we seized the opportunity to explore unusual yet fundamental concepts, such as systems antifragility. To this end, we combined the empirical approach of my engineering background with the scientific (i.e., formal) methods required by the high-level academic standards in the United States. I revisited and supplemented my previous knowledge of probability and statistical physics, strengthened my programming skills, and learned new trends in machine learning. Last but not least, I directly participated in my advisor’s Networks in the Real World class: witnessing lectures, giving a host lecture, and co-advising student projects. For all these, I am deeply grateful to my advisor and all System Level Design group members. At the end of my visit, we hope to clarify the elemental principles governing natural systems that learn from errors and exposure to volatility, namely antifragile systems. By the same token, we will also investigate the applications of antifragility in the real world.

My research visit is not only about scientific and engineering endeavors but also about discovering the uniqueness of Pittsburgh and the surrounding area. I enjoyed the long walks in the Frick park, strolling in the downtown area, admiring the Cathedral of Learning, reading and relaxing in the Mellon Park, or biking on the Great Allegheny Trail.