SFU-UBC Computational Math day
Topic
Date: July 10, 2026
Time: 1:30-5:30pm
Location: 1800 Terasen Cinema, SFU Harbour Center, 515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3
Speakers
Details
Event Schedule:
1:30-1:45 Welcome remarks
1:45-2:45 Deanna Needell
Title: On Fairness and Foundations in AI
Abstract: In this talk, we will discuss several areas of recent work centered around the themes of fairness and foundations in machine learning and AI as well as highlight the challenges in this area. We will discuss recent results involving linear algebraic tools for learning, such as methods in non-negative matrix factorization that include tailored approaches for fairness. Then, we will discuss new foundational results that theoretically justify phenomena like benign overfitting in neural networks. Lastly, we will mention some recent results on observational multiplicity, and how those can be utilized to improve equity. Throughout the talk, we will include example applications from collaborations with community partner s, using machine learning to help organizations with fairness and justice goals. This talk includes work joint with Erin George, Kedar Karhadkar, Lara Kassab, and Guido Montufar.
2:45:3:15 Coffee break
3:15-4:15 Chris Budd
Talk Details TBA
4:15-5:30 Poster session