Xiao D
- Research Program Mentor
PhD at Indiana University - Bloomington
Expertise
Cryptography, Machine Learning, Algorithm
Bio
I am a researcher and educator working at the intersection of cryptography, AI / machine learning, and algorithm design. Since 2021 I have served as a research mentor here, guiding talented high-school scholars from their first idea through to successful outcomes such as peer-reviewed publications. Research mentorship: I help students identify novel, high-impact questions, teach the theoretical and technical foundations they need, supervise experimental work, and coach them through manuscript drafting and revision. Notable successes include mentees publishing papers in STEM Fellowship Journal, the Journal of Student Research and the International Journal of High School Research. Focus areas: Privacy-Preserving Machine Learning, AI / Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Computer Vision, Homomorphic Encryption, and general Cryptography. Mentoring philosophy: I emphasize identifying innovative research opportunities, executing rigorous technical implementations, and communicating findings clearly so that students leave with both a publication and the confidence to tackle future projects. I am passionate about sharing my expertise and fostering the next generation of scientists who will shape the future of secure, intelligent technology. Personal hobbies include reading history books, oil painting, and endurance exercises such as swimming and running.Project ideas
Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.
Designing Privacy Preserving Pooling Systems for High School Student Council Using Homomorphic Encryption
In this project, students will begin by studying number theory—covering modular arithmetic, Euler’s theorem, cyclic groups, and related topics—to build a solid mathematical foundation for modern cryptographic systems. Next, we will explore core subjects such as asymmetric cryptography, homomorphic encryption, and oblivious transfer. Python programming will be used throughout: first to reinforce the understanding of number-theory concepts, and later to implement the core engines for the research projects. The resulting system can be deployed in high schools to conduct privacy-preserving surveys, opinion polls, and similar applications.
Coding skills
Python, Java, C++, SML, RubyLanguages I know
ChineseCredentials
Work experience
University of Illinois at Chicago (2012 - 2021)
Senior Research SpecialistCase Western Reserve University (2010 - 2012)
Senior Research AssociateUniversity of Chicago (2021 - 2024)
Data ScientistEducation
University of Science and Technology of China
BS Bachelor of Science candidate
Chemical PhysicsIndiana University - Bloomington
PhD Doctor of Philosophy (2010)
Informatics