I am a [research intern](https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=JXDkAboAAAAJ&hl=en) at [UIUC TIMAN Group](http://timan.cs.illinois.edu) & [Engelken's Lab](https://rainerengelken.github.io/research/). I study **NLP**, **Learning Dynamics** and **[Physmorphic](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09384-2.pdf#page=3) Learning** (e.g., [Feedback Alignment](https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms13276), [Equilibrium Propagation](https://arxiv.org/abs/1602.05179)). I also work with [Slug City](https://publish.illinois.edu/slug-city/) lab occasionally.

More specifically, my interest is using **dynamical theory** to analyze model behaviors including (1)**latent and explicit reasoning of LLMs** as **dynamical fields**, (2)**learning dynamics** and **scalability** of **backpropagation alternatives** and co-design of relevant **hardware and learning meta-material**, (3)other dynamical systems based learning such as **reservoir computing** and **echo state networks**, and (4) their applications in **RNNs** and **SNNs**. 

I'm pursuing a BS in Math (2024-2026) and a MCS (expected 2026/2027-2027) at UIUC.

I also paint, build physical automations, and (used to) do lighting engineering for theater.

My hobbies include reading, painting, and travelling. Recently I've decided to put travelling on hold — I just hit a personal milestone of having visited all four oceans and all seven continents, so it feels like a good time to focus on academics for a while.