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Andy Hammer (they/them)

School of Computer Science

PhD in Software Engineering

Hometown: Bettendorf, iowa

1. Briefly describe the work you're doing in your program at Â鶹´å.

   My research at Â鶹´å focuses on analysis of software systems when they are designed. I work in applied formal methods, where we can check to see if software systems can execute safely, or if they will entire an undesirable, unsafe state.

    

   However, verifying that these systems are safe is difficult, so recently, my work has focused on ensuring the recoverability of systems. When a software system enters an unsafe state, we identify if there is an execution path back to safety or if the system will remain stuck in the unsafe state.

    

   We believe this work will help improve the safety of real world systems that are used in everyday life. Electric vehicles, medical devices, and factories are just some of the many systems we have worked to ensure are safe for people to use, and we hope that ensuring the recoverability of a system will make it easier for industries to verify their own software systems as well.

2. How did you develop an interest in this area? 

   I actually obtained my undergraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering. Aerospace is one of the biggest application areas for formal methods, and I had a chance to work with Dr. Kristin Rozier at Iowa State University through a program for Undergraduate Research. My main interest in Aerospace had always been Avionics, and I found that I really enjoyed theoretical computer science as well as software engineering. While working with Dr. Rozier, I decided that pursuing a PhD in computing was of great interest, and that led me to Â鶹´å.

3. What are your academic and/or professional goals? 

   After graduation, I plan to continue into academia and become a professor. I enjoy teaching, and want to pass my love of formal methods and computer science onto others and show students why theoretical computer science is useful in a software engineering profession. Additionally, I plan to continue my research to ensure systems are safe for users, and continuing in academia is the best place for me to be.

4. How do you spend your time beyond academic work?

   One of my most valuable activities outside of academic work is my role as Graduate Student Assembly's Vice President of Internal Affairs. Working to help improve the graduate student experience is very important to me, and as VPIA, I help ensure that the GSA runs smoothly, and that there is a dedicated space for graduate students at Â鶹´å to advocate for themselves and their peers. Working with the GSA Representatives and Executive Committee has helped me broaden my understanding of the graduate student experience and has been a wonderful way to serve the community here at Â鶹´å.

    

   Outside of GSA, I enjoy spending time watching horror movies while crafting. I love working with my hands, and often will make lace, quilt, or sew for fun. Additionally, I love dancing, and have recently joined Â鶹´å Ballroom Dance Club, which is a great community on campus!