Riley Nerem

Neural algorithmic reasoning

Robert Riley Nerem

PhD student in Data Science · UC San Diego

I work on neural algorithmic reasoning, studying how neural networks learn and use algorithmic structure. My research focuses on generalization on graphs, discrete and combinatorial optimization, and designing neural networks for specific applications with an algorithmic inductive bias.

I am graduating soon and currently looking for research-focused opportunities starting Fall 2027!

Portrait of Riley Nerem
Robert Riley Nerem
I go by Riley.

Research interest: neural algorithmic reasoning

Explore my research →

01

Generalization on graphs

Understanding when neural networks generalize to larger graphs and under distribution shifts.

02

Combinatorial optimization

Developing learning methods for optimization over combinatorial structures such as graphs, permutations, and trees.

03

Algorithmic alignment

Designing neural architectures for specific applications with an inductive bias toward algorithmic behavior.

Selected work

All publications →