Fumeng Yang Joins UMD’s Department of Computer Science

Fumeng Yang has joined the University of Maryland’s Department of Computer Science as an assistant professor. As a new tenure-track faculty member, Yang will focus her research on data-driven computational models, particularly how individuals and groups perceive, use and develop these models.

“I am excited to join UMD’s Department of Computer Science,” Yang said. “It’s a place that combines academic excellence with a dynamic atmosphere. In my short time here, I’ve noticed a very collaborative environment and a talented, diverse student body. I look forward to contributing to this vibrant academic community and working alongside my colleagues and students here.”

Yang earned her Ph.D. in Computer Science from Brown University, her M.S. from Tufts University and her B.Eng. from Shandong University. Her research lies at the intersection of human-computer interaction and computation, focusing on visual representations and interfaces that help users better understand and interact with computational models like probabilistic forecasts and AI.

“I’m working on visual representations and interfaces to help people better understand and use computational models like probabilistic forecasts and AI,” Yang said. “The goal is to empower diverse groups of users to make appropriate decisions, particularly in domains like politics, public policy and education.”

Yang’s work has been recognized with a best paper award at IEEE VIS and three honorable mention awards at ACM CHI, IEEE VIS and ACM IUI.

Her research will focus on developing tools that support informed decision-making across various sectors. Her work will likely contribute to UMD's ongoing efforts to make computational models more accessible and understandable to a broad range of users.

Looking ahead, Yang plans to continue her research on the uncertainties surrounding AI technologies. 

“Moving forward, I’m interested in the uncertainties surrounding AI technologies and how we can better prepare users to interact with these systems,” Yang shared. “I also plan to continue my visualization work to make data more understandable. I’m looking forward to working with colleagues across different departments. I think these interdisciplinary collaborations are key to tackling some of the big challenges we face as a society.”

UMD’s Department of Computer Science recently welcomed eight new tenure-track faculty members. These experts, who will join the department between August 2024 and the summer of 2025, bring diverse research specialties and are expected to enhance the department’s academic and research strengths significantly.

—Story by Samuel Malede Zewdu, CS Communications