Meet the rising stars of the Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship

Oct 2, 2024

The goal of the University of Toronto’s Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship is to accelerate the next scientific revolution by applying AI to research in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Two of its fellows and remarkable rising stars in science, Dr Felix Strieth-Kalthoff and Dr Tianyuan Lu, have harnessed the power of AI to make groundbreaking strides in their research. Now, as they prepare to step into new academic roles, they reflect on the transformative impact of the Schmidt Fellowship on their work. 

Dr Felix Strieth-Kalthoff: pioneering sustainable molecules 

Dr Strieth-Kalthoff, from the Department of Chemistry, used his fellowship to focus on making molecules sustainably and efficiently. His work bridges the gap between chemistry and artificial intelligence.

“My research integrates machine learning with chemical synthesis and catalysis,” said Dr Strieth-Kalthoff. “By developing algorithms to optimize chemical reactions, my goal is to streamline drug development, agrochemistry and material performance.”

“I am deeply grateful for the Schmidt Fellowship,” Dr Strieth-Kalthoff continued. “It empowered me to explore innovative machine learning models and algorithms to aid decision-making in the chemical reaction space. Ultimately, I know these tools can be integrated into robotic laboratories, which will fundamentally change research in this space. The support of this fellowship has made a huge difference in enabling me to advance my research.”

Under the mentorship of the U of T Schmidt AI in Science co-director Dr Alán Aspuru-Guzik, from the Department of Chemistry and the Department of Computer Science, Dr Strieth-Kalthoff’s work promises to advance sustainable chemical processes and materials. His project envisioned a future where AI-driven robotic laboratories enhance the efficiency and sustainability of chemical synthesis.

Dr Aspuru-Guzik praises his work: “Using AI and robotics together in a lab is the future of science. Felix has demonstrated exceptional multidisciplinary creativity and dedication to building this concept. He is a true scientist of the future.”

Dr Strieth-Kalthoff began an assistant professorship in digital chemistry at the University of Wuppertal in Germany at the end of August.

Dr Tianyuan Lu: advancing genetic disease prevention 

Dr Tianyuan Lu, based in the Department of Statistical Sciences, used his fellowship to tackle a critical issue in genetic epidemiology: improving disease prevention for underrepresented ancestries.  

“By combining machine learning with statistical genetics, I am able to create more accurate polygenic risk scores for complex diseases, particularly for individuals of non-European ancestries,” said Dr Lu. “It is important to create computational prediction tools for complex traits that are more equitable to ensure better outcomes for patients of diverse backgrounds.”

“My experience as a Schmidt Fellow has been transformative,” continued Dr Lu. “The program has given me the tools and opportunities to delve into advanced models and collaborate with a global community of researchers. I would have never had the time or resources to make these connections otherwise and they have been invaluable to me.”

Dr Lu’s work involves two main components: enhancing genetic risk predictions using new methodologies learned during the Schmidt Program and identifying modifiable risk factors for diseases such as type 1 diabetes. His project, guided by Dr Lei Sun from the U of T’s Department of Statistical Sciences and Dr Andrew Paterson from SickKids, is set to make significant strides in equitable healthcare.

Dr Sun commends Dr Lu’s impact: “Tianyuan’s work is at the forefront of genetic epidemiology. His innovative approach addresses a crucial gap in the field and promises to make a real difference in disease prevention.”

Dr Lu joined the Department of Population Health & Biostatistics and Medical Informatics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison as an assistant professor at the end of July. 

The Schmidt Fellowship: nurturing future innovators 

The Schmidt AI in Science Fellowship has played a pivotal role in the achievements of both
Dr Strieth-Kalthoff and Dr Lu. By providing support and resources the fellowship has enabled them as the next generation of AI experts to push the boundaries of their research and contribute to their fields in meaningful ways. 

Dr Lisa Strug, co-director of the Schmidt AI in Science program and professor in the Departments of Statistical Sciences, Computer Science and Biostatistics at U of T, highlights the impact of the fellowship: “Felix and Tianyuan exemplify the caliber of researchers the Schmidt Fellowship aims to support. Their groundbreaking work and dedication are proof of the program’s success in fostering innovative scientific research. As they begin their new roles, their accomplishments underscore the profound potential of the Schmidt Fellowship to shape the future of science.”  

Applications are currently being accepted for the next cohort of Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellows. Visit Schmidt Fellows for more information. The deadline is October 15, 2024.