Artificial Intelligence
AI is transforming industries in Illinois and nationwide, driving innovation in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and technology. IMSA is fostering AI talent, so Illinois can be an emerging
hub for leadership in this rapidly evolving field. See more about what IMSA students and alumni are doing in AI and how they are shaping the future of this new technology.
Using AI to Identify New Treatment Targets for Heart Infection
Senior Elsa Torres ‘26 is harnessing artificial intelligence to accelerate the search for new medical treatments. Using PandaOmics, an AI platform that analyzes massive biomedical datasets, she identified genes that may serve as promising therapeutic targets for endocarditis, a serious and potentially life-threatening heart infection.
Elsa’s work showcases how AI can dramatically streamline early-stage drug discovery by pinpointing the most impactful biological pathways for researchers to explore. This approach not only speeds up the development of effective treatments but also supports safer, more targeted therapies. Her research highlights the expanding role of AI in improving patient outcomes, reducing the burden of infectious diseases, and shaping the future of precision medicine.
IMSA Team Wins Congressional App Challenge with AI Platform Advancing Brain Cancer Care
Juniors Pranav Gadde, Krithik Senthilkumar, Naga Mudda, and Pratayanch Sav won the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Illinois’ 8th District with their app, CerebraX. CerebraX is an AI-powered platform designed to reduce disparities in treatment for Glioblastoma Multiforme, one of the deadliest types of brain cancer. Using machine-learning models to analyze patient data and support clinical decision-making, CerebraX brings advanced diagnostic insights into local hospitals. By expanding access to this level of computational precision, the students aim to improve outcomes for patients facing this devastating disease.
Their app will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol, and the team is invited to Washington, D.C. for the national #HouseOfCode celebration, representing IMSA’s growing leadership in artificial intelligence.
Advancing AI Tools for Neuromuscular Disease Prediction
Lucas Zhang ‘26 is pushing the boundaries of AI in healthcare. In a cutting-edge study, he analyzed muscle activity signals with advanced machine-learning models to deepen understanding of movement and neuromuscular conditions. By comparing multiple AI approaches, Lucas identified the most accurate methods for predicting disease progression, providing a clearer window into how these conditions evolve.
The promise of his work is significant: AI-driven insights could enable earlier detection of disorders, tailor treatments to each patient’s unique physiology, and continuously monitor changes that clinicians might otherwise miss. His research opens the door to more proactive care, greater mobility and independence for patients, and new possibilities for how artificial intelligence can strengthen human health.
IMSA Launches Statewide AI Credential to Build Illinois’ Future Tech Workforce
IMSA is strengthening Illinois’ AI talent pipeline with a free, semester-long, self-paced AI Credential Program open to students and educators statewide. The response to the inaugural spring 2026 offering has been remarkable, with learners from every region of Illinois eager to build foundational knowledge in this rapidly evolving field and gain exposure to real-world AI applications.
By equipping educators with AI fluency, IMSA is multiplying its impact—giving teachers the tools and confidence to introduce cutting-edge concepts in their classrooms and expanding access for thousands of students who may not otherwise encounter AI coursework. As participants complete the credential, they gain essential skills, relevant literacy, and the confidence needed to thrive in an innovation-driven workforce.
Through this initiative, IMSA is helping Illinois stay ahead of the curve, ensuring the next generation can understand, shape, and ultimately lead the future of artificial intelligence.
Alumni Impact
Vikram Anjur ‘15
Vikram, a software engineer at Nvidia, is advancing autonomous vehicle software and advising IMSA on AI curriculum, and serves as a mentor for students interested in an AI career. His contributions strengthen IMSA’s role as a leader in AI education throughout Illinois.
Advith Chelikani ‘14
Advith was named to the Forbes 30 Under 30: AI List for his work as co-founder of Pylon, which builds AI tools that improve customer support efficiency and business insights. He credits IMSA’s STEM and computer science experiences for launching his career in AI innovation.
Nathan Butters ’06
Nathan plays a pivotal role in shaping safe, ethical AI at Salesforce. As a product leader in responsible AI, he builds risk-management systems, safety standards, and advances industry practices to ensure generative AI is trustworthy, secure, and human-centered across the enterprise.
