Brian Brubach
Assistant Professor of Computer Science
I love designing algorithms and exploring CS theory applied to e-commerce, fairness in machine learning, democracy, and bioinformatics.
I have broad research interests in algorithms and theoretical computer science motivated by a range of social good applications. On the theoretical side, much of my work falls into the categories of approximation algorithms, online algorithms, randomized algorithms, data-driven algorithms, and combinatorial optimization. This means I’m often looking for the best possible solution to problems we don’t expect to be able to solve optimally. My favorite problems to study usually involve some combination of matching, clustering, strings, and uncertainty (e.g., stochastic matching). On the applied side, I draw on problems from e-commerce, fairness in machine learning and automated systems, mechanism design for social good, the U.S. electoral system, and genomics/metagenomics. In the future, I hope to develop more interdisciplinary collaborations and strengthen the connections between theory and practice in my work.
I’m excited to teach a number of core computer science courses at Wellesley and some new electives. I’ve taught CS 115 Computing for the Socio-Techno Web and CS 231 Fundamental Algorithms so far. My favorite thing about CS 115 is teaching coding within the context of its social implications at a time when our society is reckoning with the consequences of computer technology. CS 231 is central to my research and was one of the most important courses I’ve taken as a student (with two B.A.s!). So it’s wonderful to share that material with others. In the future, I’m looking forward to teaching other introductory courses and more advanced algorithms electives.
My other professional interests include service, mentorship, and community building. Throughout all of my work, I’m devoted to promoting diversity and inclusion in computer science. Before studying computer science, I was a freelance filmmaker and non-profit educator. As a teaching artist, I had the opportunity to work with amazing students, parents, teachers, and artists in several Chicago public schools.
Outside of computer science, I love spending time with my family, designing and playing board games, listening to music and podcasts, watching movies, biking, hiking, and cooking/eating vegetarian food.
Education
- B.A., Columbia College Chicago
- B.A., Rutgers University-Camden
- Ph.D., University of Maryland-College Park
Current and upcoming courses
Design and Analysis of Algorithms
CS231
This course introduces the design and analysis of fundamental algorithms. It focuses on the basic skills needed to design efficient, correct algorithms and mathematically prove these properties. General problem-solving techniques covered: divide-and-conquer, dynamic programming, greediness, and probabilistic algorithms. Topics include: sorting, searching, graph algorithms, optimization, network flows, asymptotic analysis, compression, and NP-completeness.
-
Sociotechnical Dimensions of Computing in the Age of AI
CS110
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way we work, interact, and make decisions. AI is integrated into applications and devices that are woven into our daily lives. How does AI work? What impact will AI have on individuals, communities, and our global society?This course aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to become informed digital citizens in the age of AI, ready to navigate the digital landscape. Students will gain fundamental technical understanding of how computers, the Web, and AI work, and will study three programming languages: HTML5, CSS, and JavaScript. Students will also examine and discuss societal and ethical issues related to the Web and AI technologies, and consider responsible and future use of these technologies. (CS 110 and MAS 110 are cross-listed courses.)