Curriculum vitae
Robert Riley Nerem
Updated October 14, 2026 · 3 pages
Research
My research in neural algorithmic reasoning seeks to understand and develop algorithmic capabilities in machine learning. I study when neural networks learn algorithms and generalize across graph sizes and distributions. I combine theoretical analysis with algorithmic alignment to design learning methods for combinatorial optimization, motivated by applications in biology and chip design.
Education
PhD in Data Science, in progress
University of California San Diego · 2022–present
Advisor · Yusu Wang
MSc in Physics
University of Calgary · 2022
BSc in Physics, summa cum laude
Montana State University · 2018