Optimization & Control

Optimization is about finding the best possible solution, given a set of resource constraints. For example, optimization is needed to find the least crowded path for a message as it travels between distant locations, to find the least-energy solution to move a spacecraft into orbit, or to find the most efficient computation graph for a GPU. Control is about using feedback from sensors or other sources to estimate the state of a system and ensure that it performs well in the presence of uncertainty. For example, feedback control is needed to minimize the risk of collapse of the power grid when it is subjected to constantly changing user demand, or to ensure the safe and efficient operation of an electric vehicle’s battery and motor systems under varying environmental conditions and driver demands. ECE researchers apply mathematical reasoning, statistical tools, simulation methods, and computational technologies to solve problems throughout engineering and the sciences. We study the methods and algorithms that underlie these procedures in order to optimize and control modern engineered systems.

Grigoris Chrysos

Position title: Assistant Professor

Jeremy Coulson

Position title: Mark and Jenny Brandemuehl Assistant Professor

Dominic Gross

Position title: Dugald C. Jackson Assistant Professor

Ramya Korlakai Vinayak

Position title: Dugald C. Jackson Assistant Professor

Kangwook Lee

Position title: Dugald C. Jackson Assistant Professor

Bernard Lesieutre

Position title: Professor

Paul H. Milenkovic

Position title: Associate Professor

Robert Nowak

Position title: Keith and Jane Morgan Nosbusch Professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Grace Wahba Professor of Data Science

Dimitris Papailiopoulos

Position title: Jay and Cynthia Ihlenfeld Associate Professor

Line Roald

Position title: Associate Professor, Grainger Institute Fellow

William Sethares

Position title: Professor

Manish Singh

Position title: Assistant Professor

Lei Zhou

Position title: Assistant Professor