Yan Cao

Yan Cao is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences at the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, The University of Texas at Dallas, where he has served since 2006 after joining as an Assistant Professor. His research bridges computer vision, pattern theory, and biomedical applications with a focus on mathematical foundations for shape analysis.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from Brown University (2003)
• M.S. in Mathematics from The University of Iowa (1997)
• B.S. in Computational Mathematics from Peking University (1996)

Dr. Cao's research centers on enabling computers to recognize shapes and understand structural variations through advanced mathematical frameworks. He investigates 2D/3D shape analysis using tools like diffeomorphic matching and geometric PDEs, addressing fundamental challenges in three-dimensional geometry where traditional methods like medial axis transforms are inadequate. His work spans medical image analysis, computational anatomy, and computer vision, with emphasis on translating theoretical advances into biomedical applications such as medical imaging and anatomy modeling.

His publication record reveals a consistent focus on diffeomorphic deformation techniques applied to medical imaging and computer vision. Key trends include the development of spectral methods for mesh deformation, atlas-based segmentation for anatomical structures, and quantitative approaches for spinal cord and diffusion tensor imaging. These works demonstrate interdisciplinary integration of computer science, mathematics, and biomedical engineering with strong emphasis on practical medical applications.

His scientific recognition includes:

• IEEE International Conference on Computer Vision Travel Award (2005)
• Brown University's Stella Dafermos Award for academic excellence (2003)
• Multiple graduate fellowships from Brown University, The University of Iowa, and Peking University

Dr. Cao has secured significant research funding including a $273,650 NSF grant for diffeomorphic deformation of textured shapes (2009-2012) and a $63,891 NIH subcontract for spinal cord perfusion measurement (2009-2011). He teaches advanced mathematics courses including Mathematical Analysis, Real Analysis, and specialized topics in medical image analysis, while maintaining active collaborations evidenced by invited talks at Texas A&M University-Commerce, Peking University, and UT Southwestern Medical Center.

His research operates within UT Dallas's interdisciplinary mathematical sciences environment, leveraging collaborations across medical imaging and computational fields without dedicated lab facilities specified in available records.