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Institute for Advanced Analytics and Society

Institute for Advanced Analytics and Society

Solutions at the Intersection of Data and the Public Interest

The Institute is dedicated to advancing the design and application of machine learning, artificial intelligence and advanced statistical analysis to address complex public‑interest challenges facing our communities. Our work blends foundational research with applied innovation: modernizing how large scientific and operational datasets are integrated while creating practical tools that support decision‑makers at every level. As the demand for resilient digital infrastructure grows, our research portfolio continues to expand, bringing forward new capabilities in ocean science, cyber operations, digital forensics and large‑scale information systems. 

Our ProjectsPeople

 

Our Programs

The Institute’s research programs address a variety of areas related to data and the public good through the development of:

  • Large‑scale data integration by developing modern architectures capable of unifying autonomous vehicle data, visual‑sensor collections and extensive ocean science datasets. Recent initiatives such as Aquaview extend this mission by transforming fragmented scientific metadata into a unified enterprise resource, improving transparency, interoperability, and long‑term stewardship for national environmental information systems.
  • Novel applications of machine learning in the health sciences, using advanced models to identify impactful health interventions, analyze social determinants of health, and surface patterns that support community well‑being. These efforts aim to strengthen evidence‑based public health practices and equip practitioners with data‑driven insights that improve outcomes at scale.
  • Advanced analytics within homeland and national security, developing capabilities that support operational readiness, risk mitigation and digital resilience. Collaborative work with organizations such as the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) enhances safety in high‑density public environments, while new programs in cyber defense, adversarial simulation, and digital‑forensics capacity building such as the Rural Digital Forensics Initiative expand the nation’s ability to investigate digital evidence and respond to emerging threats.

Contact Us

Institute for Advanced Analytics and Society

118 College Dr. #4042
Jones Hall , Room 322
Hattiesburg, MS 39406

Campus Map

Email
l.bondFREEMississippi

Phone
601.266.4176

 

Funding

Researchers brought in over $10 M in competitive external funding in 2024 2025.

Tech

Since being established, The institute has developed advanced, scalable technologies that integrate complex scientific data, power large‑scale AI research, and deliver sophisticated cyber training systems. Together, these innovations strengthen national data infrastructure, expand digital‑forensics capacity, and elevate both offensive and defensive cybersecurity capabilities across diverse operational environments.

Novelty

Providing novel open source solutions for police and security professionals, academic researchers, federal and state agencies, commercial and industrial organizations, and public-sector scientific communities. 

Recent Highlights

 

robosubdrcruz

 

What started as a very simple mechanism for a RoboSub competition has now evolved into technology that can potentially assist with life-saving underwater search and rescue operations.

Beginning as just a basic student engineering project, this sophisticated autonomous underwater vehicle has grown into a project capable of more than just competition tasks. After gaining a deep understanding of how the vehicle moves through water, how it is powered, and how each subsystem interacts, the team began layering in more advanced electronics and software. Each upgrade brought new capabilities, transforming the robot into a versatile platform with real-world potential.

The development process follows a clear progression: master the fundamentals, expand the electronics, refine the computing and coding, and then elevate the vehicle to competition-level performance. Because of this thoughtful design, adapting the robot for specialized missions, such as underwater search and rescue, is seamless. Adjustments to the onboard computer, sensors, and control algorithms can be made quickly, allowing the vehicle to shift from competition tasks to life-saving applications with minimal reconfiguration. 

Behind this innovation is a dedicated team of 10–12 USM students who consistently invest their time, creativity, and technical skills. Their commitment has propelled the project forward and positioned the vehicle as a strong contender in the upcoming international RoboSub competition in July.

The competition includes seven total tests, and the team’s robot is already prepared for all but one, which is an impressive milestone that reflects both the students’ expertise and the vehicle’s rapid evolution. With continued refinement, the robot is not only on track for a strong performance this summer but also poised to make a meaningful impact far beyond the competition pool.