معرفی
Hugo Alves Akitaya is an Assistant Professor at the University of Massachusetts Lowell in the Miner School of Computer & Information Sciences, which is part of the Kennedy College of Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Tufts University (2018), an M.Eng. from University of Tsukuba (2014), and a B.Eng. from University of Brasília (2011).
His educational background includes:
- Ph.D. in Computer Science from Tufts University (2018)
- M.Eng. in Computer Science from University of Tsukuba (2014)
- B.Eng. in Control and Automation from University of Brasília (2011)
Hugo's research primarily focuses on computational geometry and algorithms, with special emphasis on reconfiguration algorithms, discrete geometry, graph drawing, and origami-related folding problems. His work bridges theoretical computer science with practical geometric applications, often exploring the mathematical foundations of folding and unfolding processes. His research has significant implications for robotics, computer graphics, and network design.
Hugo's publications demonstrate consistent contributions to major computational geometry conferences including SODA, SoCG, GD, and FWCG. His work shows a clear trajectory from theoretical foundations in geometric algorithms to practical applications in areas such as robot swarm coordination (Freeze Tag problem), paper folding mathematics, and geometric network optimization. The recurring themes across his publications include NP-hardness proofs, geometric optimization techniques, and novel algorithmic approaches to longstanding problems in computational geometry.
Hugo has received several prestigious awards including:
- Loevner Fellowship (2016-2017)
- LASPAU-administrated scholarship (Science without Borders) (2014-2018)
- Outstanding Presentation Award at JSST2013
- 1st Place in ACM Student Research Competition at SIGGRAPH 2013
- MEXT scholarship from Japanese Government (2011-2014)
- Outstanding Student Award from University of Brasília (2011)
Hugo teaches courses including COMP 5030 (Algorithms) and COMP 5800 (Computational Geometry) at UMass Lowell, and previously taught Comp 160 (Algorithms) at Tufts University. His research is conducted in collaboration with prominent figures in computational geometry including Erik Demaine, Diane Souvaine, and Csaba Tóth. His work often involves interdisciplinary approaches, connecting computer science with mathematical theory and practical applications.
Hugo maintains an active research laboratory focused on computational geometry problems, with particular emphasis on folding algorithms and geometric reconfiguration. His team explores both theoretical foundations and practical implementations of geometric algorithms, often drawing inspiration from origami mathematics. The group maintains strong collaborations with researchers at institutions including Tufts University, Carleton University, and various international partners.
