Selected Topics in Mechanical Engg (495-0-26)

Topic

AI Assisted Research in Science and Engineering

Instructors

Neelesh Patankar
847/491-3021
Technological Institute, Rm L490, 2145 Sheridan Rd, EV CAMPUS

Meeting Info

Technological Institute M120: Tues, Thurs 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

AI Assisted Research in Science and Engineering
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how research is conducted across science and engineering. This course recognizes that AI is not merely a tool, but a collaborative partner in the research process. The goal is to train students to leverage AI effectively, critically, and responsibly as a research collaborator-a skill that will be essential for the next generation of scientists and engineers.

Over the span of ten weeks, students will engage in research activities starting from curiosity and progressing toward discovery. Working in areas they may initially know little about, students will use AI to navigate the literature, formulate research questions, generate ideas, develop models and methods, and construct coherent arguments. The course will expose students to a broad range of AI-assisted activities, including:

Literature search and synthesis
Problem formulation and ideation
Mathematical derivations and proof development
Programming and computational modeling
Scientific writing, including both research papers and op-ed style communication


A central premise of the course is that AI can significantly reduce the traditional learning curve associated with technical work. The responsibility, therefore, is not just to use AI, but to use it well-with rigor, skepticism, and creativity. Broadly, the course aims to equip students with a new mode of thinking-one that combines human insight with AI-assisted exploration-to enable faster, deeper, and more impactful research.