Research where artificial intelligence meets the Internet of Things
AIoT-Sys gives undergraduates an immersive introduction to research on intelligent, connected systems—linking sensing and embedded devices with AI, data, networks, and real-world applications.
A new chapter beginning in 2026. As part of a National Science Foundation renewal, the IoT-SITY REU program became AIoT-Sys. The renewed program expands its focus from IoT for smart communities to the broader intersection of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things systems, while continuing UC Irvine’s commitment to undergraduate research mentorship.
Our research focus
Intelligence across the connected-system stack
AIoT-Sys research asks how connected devices can perceive their environments, reason with data, coordinate reliably, and create meaningful benefits for people and communities.
Sensing and edge intelligence
Transform signals from sensors, cameras, wearables, and embedded devices into useful decisions close to where data is produced.
Connected and trustworthy systems
Explore architectures, networks, privacy, security, and reliability for distributed and cyber-physical systems.
Human and community impact
Apply AIoT technologies to health, transportation, infrastructure, sustainability, safety, and other human-centered challenges.
The research experience
From an open question to a research contribution
Participants join a faculty-led research environment and experience the collaboration and communication that turn an idea into evidence.
1. Explore
Understand a research problem, its context, and unanswered questions.
2. Build
Prototype software, models, experiments, devices, or system components.
3. Evaluate
Analyze results, question assumptions, and refine the work through evidence.
4. Share
Communicate the contribution through a poster, presentation, or demonstration.
The program legacy
A community of emerging researchers
“Participating in the REU site at UCI was an eye-opening experience for me as an undergraduate student. The collaborative and enriching environment allowed me to meet and work with a diverse cohort of students from across the nation. This experience broadened my perspective and provided a glimpse into how cutting-edge research in computer science and engineering is conducted.”
Sharika Hegde • 2017 REU participant • Carnegie Mellon University
Program leadership
Meet the AIoT-Sys team
Faculty and program leadership guide each cohort through an intensive, collaborative research experience at UC Irvine.
Sergio Gago-Masague
Professor of Teaching,
REU PI
Computer Science
sgagomas@uci.edu
(929) 824-7208
Nalini Venkatasubramanian
Professor,
REU Co-PI
Computer Science
nalini@uci.edu
(949) 824-5898
Vinh Luong
Assistant Director, OAI
REU Program Manager
Computer Science
vinh.luong@uci.edu
(949) 824 -7918