I'm currently traversing the vast, uncharted universe that is complexity theory. It's like weaving through a starry cosmos, where each problem shines like a distant star, and solutions form intricate constellations. Just as the vastness of space conceals unseen forces that bind galaxies, the realm of complexity theory unveils hidden structures that shape our understanding of what can be solved and what lies beyond reach. It's a journey through an endless universe, where the pursuit of discovery is the ultimate reward.

Intellectual Curiosity

I'm endlessly fascinated by the big questions in theoretical computer science, the elegance of mathematics, and the artistry of programming languages.

Theoretical computer science is where the abstract meets the practical, offering deep insights into the fundamental nature of computation. It's not just about writing code—it's about understanding the very limits of what can be computed. One of the big questions that keeps me up at night is the P vs NP problem: Can every problem that can be verified quickly also be solved quickly? This question alone could reshape our understanding of the universe. Complexity theory dives deep into these kinds of questions, by categorizing problems based on how hard they are to solve. This exploration is profound and has far-reaching applications, impacting everything from cryptography to artificial intelligence. Beyond complexity theory, I'm captivated by various topics in algorithms, automata theory, and information theory—each a vital tool for efficiently processing and understanding information.

But it doesn't stop there—mathematics offers its own mind-blowing questions that I'm equally intrigued by. Take Gödel's incompleteness theorem, which reveals that there are true statements in mathematics that cannot be proven—challenging our fundamental understanding of knowledge and proof. Then there are results like the monstrous moonshine, which connects seemingly disparate areas of mathematics—algebra, number theory, and even string theory—in ways that feel almost magical. These problems serve as a reminder that the quest for knowledge is an endless adventure, full of unexpected connections and breakthroughs that constantly push the boundaries of our understanding. Mathematics uncovers the hidden patterns of the universe, offering a language to model and understand everything from the tiniest particles to the vastness of space. Its elegance lies in how abstract concepts can uncover deep truths about the world around us.

And let's not forget about programming languages. I love delving into how they're designed, how their syntax and semantics shape the way we express computation, and how they're implemented. What makes one language more secure than another? How does a compiler take high-level code and turn it into something a machine can understand? The theory behind programming languages and compilers is deeply rooted in the same logical foundations found in automata theory and formal logic, creating a rich intersection where mathematical rigor and practical design converge. Whether it's the structure of a language or the algorithms driving its implementation, there's always something new to ponder about.

Research Interests

My research philosophy is simple: I want to create tangible results that either have practical applications or push the boundaries of our fundamental understanding on certain topics. So broadly speaking, I'm all about theoretical computer science and how it connects to the real world. But more specifically, I'm interested in the intersection of programming languages and security—think formal methods, logic, and how they play into both programming languages and computer systems. Currently, I'm very fortunate to be working with the amazing Prof Umang Mathur, tackling some exciting challenges like automated program repair and translation, or finding algorithmic techniques to analyze concurrent programs. It's all about solving problems that make our software more secure and pleasant!

Life Beyond Academia

I thrive on a blend of creativity, exploration, and self-expression. I'm a big fan of transformative media—whether it's anime that explores mind-bending concepts or films that redefine the art of storytelling. My media diet also features a healthy dose of classical music, which soothes and inspires me. Occasionally, I induldge in Japanese pop and rock, which helps me engage with certain emotions. When I'm not immersing myself in these worlds, you'll likely find me playing the classical guitar, channeling my inner musician to unwind and get lost in the harmony. Hit me up if you're looking for anime recommendations or want to chat about classical guitar repertoires!

Nature plays a crucial role in my life too. There's nothing quite like the exhilaration of traveling—exploring new places and uncovering the beauty of nature fills me with awe and rejuvenates my spirit. Whether it's hiking up a mountain or simply strolling through a park, I believe there's magic in the world outside the classroom, and I savor every moment of it!