Weekly Roundup: Innovations in Technology and Neuroscience
As the world of technology rapidly evolves, educational institutions and research bodies keep pushing the boundaries of knowledge and skill sets. In this week’s roundup, we explore key insights into a new machine learning program at IIT Delhi, alongside fascinating developments in neuroscience and language processing.
IIT Delhi Launches Certificate Programme in Machine Learning and Deep Learning
The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) is launching the fourth edition of its certificate program focused on machine learning (ML) and deep learning. This initiative aims to equip professionals with crucial skills pertinent to thriving in today’s fast-paced tech industry.
Participants will dive deep into Python programming, learning to handle and preprocess data with the Pandas library effectively. This comprehensive six-month program is structured to cover the core tenets of machine learning, including practical applications using the Keras and TensorFlow frameworks.
An engaging journey into the world of machine learning.
The syllabus spans a vast array of topics, including Data Processing, Neural Networks, Deep Learning Architectures, and Natural Language Processing (NLP). Prospective students should note that applications for this course are open until August 28, 2024, with a course fee of Rs 1.69 lakh (excluding taxes). The program promises a robust learning experience via its Direct-to-Device format, including 76 hours of online and self-study, followed by a three-week capstone project that will bring students on-site to IIT Delhi for an immersion session.
Breakthroughs in Neuroscience: Understanding Language Processing in the Brain
Shifting gears to neuroscience, Ieva Andrulyte, a PhD student in the Institute of Systems, Molecular & Integrative Biology, is making significant strides in understanding how our brains process language. Funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), Ieva’s research investigates language lateralisation—the phenomenon where language is primarily managed by one hemisphere of the brain.
In her research, Ieva notes that while most people utilize their left hemisphere for language, approximately 10% of individuals rely on their right hemisphere or even both. This understanding is crucial, particularly for clinical procedures involving epilepsy or tumour surgeries, where precise knowledge of language lateralisation can significantly impact outcomes.
“The brain’s organisation of language is a fascinating area for research and holds real-world implications for clinical practices,” says Ieva.
Exploring language processing in the human brain.
Ieva’s journey through her PhD has not only involved intensive research but also a passion for science communication. She actively engages in outreach, sharing insights from her research journey with diverse audiences through various public events and social media, fostering a greater understanding of neuroscience.
Conclusion
This week’s roundup encapsulates the continuous efforts in education and research to innovate and expand our understanding of complex systems, whether through advanced technology in machine learning or groundbreaking discoveries in neuroscience. As these fields progress, the intended goals of creating accessible knowledge and enriching community engagement remain a priority.
