ABSTRACT. Both computing and mathematics are devoted to studying abstraction. Mathematics is the science of abstraction, and computing is abstraction engineering. Abstractions in mathematics include sets, graphs, functions, algebras, and spaces. In computing, abstractions typically include floating-point numbers, stacks, lists, channels, processes, protocols, instruction sets, type systems, and programming languages. The "computer" is itself a key abstraction since we use it to represent and manipulate other abstractions. We outline how the perspective of computing as abstraction engineering yields concrete problem-solving wisdom.

ABSTRACT. Work-life balance and time management are inextricably intertwined. Especially in the demanding careers (and lives) of humans specializing in formal methods, having a clear strategy for time and space is vital. How do we manage our time effectively and find the space, both in our schedules and in the places we live and work, to fit in what's necessary and what's important? While this has long been a challenge, the COVID-19 pandemic further complicated the solution space. In this talk, I will discuss my personal lessons learned from an unconventional path and offer strategies for others to find theirs. Sometimes, earning a PhD in formal logic necessitates winning the California Triple Crown (a cycling event), and increasing office productivity by 20% involves re-arranging office furniture. This talk will explain how to make such discoveries.

ABSTRACT. To a PhD student who deeply focuses on academic research in their day-to-day work, moving to industry may seem unattainable. As a recent graduate, I will share my personal experience of applying for internships, doing coding interviews, working in a startup, as well as working in a big company. I will also give an overview of the project I am currently working on as an applied scientist in the Prime Video Automated Reasoning team.