About Me
Hi, I'm Pragyan. I am a sophomore at the University of Connecticut, pursuing a dual degree in Computer Science and Physics, with a minor in Astrophysics. I am interested in understanding complex systems and emergent phenomena, from the large-scale structure of the universe to the algorithms we use to model and interpret it.
Currently Working On
Right now, I am fascinated by our ability to learn from AI. Working with the UConn Computational Galaxy Formation Group, I am applying Explainable AI (XAI) techniques to learn more about cosmological structures and extract hidden physical information from the universe from an AI model.
Doing this project made me realize the philosophical questions surrounding transparency and explainability in AI. That’s why I am also collaborating with the Philosophy Department at the University of Connecticut to investigate what transparency and explainability in artificial intelligence truly look like. I strongly believe in interdisciplinary research and do not want to be restricted to a single field in my pursuit of knowledge and learning.
Other Interests
Beyond code and equations, I’ve always liked attempting to understand unknown things, which pulled me toward journalism. Right now, I’m the Director of Journalism for the UConn Undergraduate Science Journal (USJ). Outside of writing, I really enjoy movies and visual storytelling, and I also like watching video essays on YouTube that break down ideas, films, and culture in interesting ways.
cool quote
I am very inspired by the Indian physicist Dr. Homi Bhabha, and this quote of his is one I really resonate with.
"I know quite clearly what I want out of my life. Life and my emotions are the only things I am conscious of. I love the consciousness of life and I want as much of it as I can get. But the span of one's life is limited. What comes after death no one knows. Nor do I care. Since, therefore, I cannot increase the content of life by increasing its duration, I will increase it by increasing its intensity. Art, music, poetry and everything else … I do have this one purpose — increasing the intensity of my consciousness of life.
Let's talk
You can reach me at: pragyan.yadav@uconn.edu