Join Us · Lab Q&A

LAB Q&A

• Q. What will I study in the lab?
  A. At Optim. Lab., students begin by learning linear algebra, optimization methods, and computational methods for fitting machine learning and AI models. Once they can interpret machine learning models as mathematical models, they read papers in their areas of interest and implement the methods. Master’s students gain experience through joint projects with companies, developing teaching materials, or working as teaching assistants. Doctoral students develop deeper mathematical skills and work on the lab’s priority projects. Please see the Research menu for the lab’s 2026 priority projects.
• Q. Do you recruit undergraduate interns?
  A. We offer undergraduate internships through the university curriculum and at the lab level. Please contact us by email.
• Q. What kinds of projects can I work on, and how can I participate?
  A. Projects vary from year to year, but mainly focus on machine learning and AI applications. Participation requires basic research skills such as data preprocessing, analysis, and report writing. The professor and researchers decide on participation together when a project begins, and tasks are assigned according to each researcher’s abilities.
• Q. What do graduates typically do after graduation?
  A. Most graduates work in data analysis. They remain active in a variety of fields, including finance, retail, and life sciences.
• Q. Is financial support available for master’s and doctoral students?
  A. University of Seoul scholarships, talent-development program scholarships, and payment for work on lab projects may be available. Please see Funding.
• Q. Is there a part-time program?
  A. Yes. Some classes are held in the evening for part-time students. Participation in the lab requires consultation.
• Q. What are the requirements for completing a PhD?
  A. As a minimum requirement, PhD students must be the first author of one SCI(E) paper or two KCI papers.