Wotao Yin

Wotao Yin is a Professor of Mathematics at the University of California, Los Angeles, with a distinguished research career spanning over two decades in optimization theory and its applications. His work bridges theoretical mathematics with practical applications in machine learning, image processing, and signal analysis. As a leading researcher in optimization algorithms, he has made significant contributions to the development of methods like ADMM (Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers), proximal algorithms, and decentralized optimization techniques.

• Department: Department of Mathematics
• School: College of Letters and Science
• University: University of California, Los Angeles

Yin's research focuses on developing efficient algorithms for large-scale optimization problems, with particular expertise in convex and nonconvex optimization, distributed and decentralized optimization, and mathematical foundations of machine learning. His work has profound implications for image reconstruction, signal processing, and modern machine learning systems. He has pioneered methods for handling sparse data, non-smooth objectives, and constrained optimization problems that arise in real-world applications.

An analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward addressing optimization challenges in machine learning, particularly in federated learning, attention mechanisms, and nonconvex problem structures. His work demonstrates a consistent pattern of bridging theoretical optimization with practical machine learning applications, developing algorithms that balance computational efficiency with theoretical guarantees. Recent papers show increasing focus on heterogeneous data settings, large language model optimization, and fundamental limitations of optimization methods in complex learning scenarios.

Throughout his career, Professor Yin has mentored numerous PhD students and postdoctoral researchers who have gone on to successful careers in academia and industry. His collaborative network spans multiple institutions worldwide, with particularly strong connections to researchers in China and across the United States. His work has been supported by various funding agencies recognizing the fundamental importance of optimization theory for advancing computational science.

Professor Yin leads a vibrant research group focused on mathematical optimization and its applications, where students and collaborators work on cutting-edge problems at the intersection of mathematics, computer science, and engineering. The group maintains strong connections with both theoretical and applied research communities, participating in major conferences across optimization, machine learning, and computational mathematics.