Join the University of Maryland MATRIX Lab at the USMSM SMART Building for a series of dynamic presentations and stimulating discussions. Our next event is April 1, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Scroll down for links to register to each event.
Autonomy and autonomous systems are critical to our future, not only in defense and industry, but in our everyday lives. The technologies that contribute to these capabilities and systems run the gamut – AI, machine learning, algorithms, materials science, physics, electronics, computer science and engineering, aerospace, mechanical, cybersecurity. While we may be familiar with uncrewed systems, remote operations and automation, autonomy takes us to the next level of capability... and requires the next level of trust in them. How do we bring this all together?
Evening@SMART is a periodic series focused on bringing together thought and action leaders in government, industry, and academia to share valuable perspectives on these and many more current technical topics. Dynamic presentations from prominent experts and stimulating discussions around cutting-edge topics aim to advance research and innovation and promote interdisciplinary collaboration. It is designed to spark growth through fostering dialogue and creating connections.
Evening@SMART is hosted by the University of Maryland MATRIX Lab and held at the University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland SMART Building in California, Maryland (44219 Airport Road, California, MD 20619). Each event runs from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. If you have suggestions or ideas for future Evening@SMART events please email us at matrix@umd.edu.
Dr. John Baras
Distinguished University Professor
Endowed Lockheed Martin Chair in Systems Engineering
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography
Autonomous systems (e.g. robots, cars, UAVs) are becoming ubiquitous. Their complexity is increasing. They interact with humans frequently. Safety and robustness are critical and indispensable requirements for autonomous systems and for their interactions with humans. Trusted autonomy is essential. In this talk, Dr. John Baras will share methodologies and tools for trusted autonomy. Full abstract
Register for April 1 Presentation
Dr. Kaiqing Zhang
Assistant Professor
Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography
As artificial intelligence (AI) systems take on more decision-making roles, they increasingly need to interact with other AI agents - as well as humans - in complex, real-world environments. This talk will explore the fundamental challenges behind these interactions - like handling uncertainty, adapting to change, and scaling effectively - and highlight both the strengths and limitations of current approaches. Full abstract
Register for May 6 PresentationTitle TBD
Robert Hicks
Chief Executive Officer
Offshore Aviation Group
Biography
Abstract TBD
Title TBD
Dr. Mumu Xu
Associate Professor
Department of Aerospace Engineering
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography
Abstract TBD
Watch this space for details on future talks from researchers.
Evening@SMART takes place at the USMSM SMART Building in St. Mary's County from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Address: 44219 Airport Road, California, MD 20619
Free parking is available in any of the lots on the USMSM campus. Spots close to the door are available by the main entrance of the SMART Building (Building 3). Handicap spots are available by Building 2 and on the west side of the SMART Building.
Food and drinks are provided at Evening@SMART events.
Please be advised that the food provided during this event may contain, or come into contact with, common allergens such as nuts, dairy, eggs, and soy.
Please send all queries to matrix@umd.edu.
Dr. Julie Marble
Intelligent Human-Machine Systems Division Director
Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security (ARLIS)
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Alireza Khaligh
Interim Director
Institute for Systems Research
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Suresh Babu
Clark Distinguished Chair
Department of Materials Science and Engineering
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Miao Yu
Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Pratap Tokekar
Associate Professor
Department of Computer Science
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Yiannis Aloimonos
Professor
Department of Computer Science
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Brian Weiss
Research Engineer
Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security (ARLIS)
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Sanghamitra Dutta
Assistant Professor
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Donald "Bucket" Costello
Director of Test and Evaluation of Autonomous Systems
MATRIX Lab
University of Maryland Clark School at USMSM
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Justin Stine
Director of Remote Sensing and Microsystems
MATRIX Lab
University of Maryland Clark School at USMSM
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Michael Otte
Assistant Professor
Department of Aerospace Engineering
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Derek Paley
Director
Maryland Robotics Center
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Pamela Abshire
Professor
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Ming Lin
Professor
Department of Computer Science
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract
Dr. Po-Yen Chen
Assistant Professor
Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
University of Maryland, College Park
Biography | Abstract