John Sheppard

Dr. John Sheppard is a Professor of Computer Science at Montana State University (MSU), affiliated with the College of Engineering's School of Computing. He leads the Numerical Intelligent Systems Laboratory (NISL), focusing on AI, machine learning, and probabilistic models. His research spans Bayesian networks, evolutionary algorithms, and applications in precision agriculture and health management. He holds a PhD from Johns Hopkins University (1997) and has been recognized with awards like the Provost’s Award for Graduate Research (2022) and IEEE Fellow (2006).

Education: Ph.D. (1997), M.S. (1990) from Johns Hopkins University; B.S. (1983) from Southern Methodist University. Active in IEEE standards committees and serves on boards like the Bozeman Symphony and Lutheran Campus Ministries.

Research emphasizes probabilistic graphical models, explainable AI, and system-level problems like equipment health management. Recent articles address neural networks for uncertainty reduction, hyperspectral imaging, and factored evolutionary algorithms. His work bridges theory and practice, with funded projects in agriculture, energy, and diagnostics. Awards highlight contributions to research mentoring and academic leadership.

Advises over 30 students, including current PhD candidates like Muhammad Arju and past graduates such as Dr. Logan Perreault. Leads grants on precision agriculture and AI ethics. NISL collaborates on tools for diagnostic reasoning and PHM standards, advancing both academic and industrial applications.