University of Maryland, College Park
Class of 2026
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Evaluator tool
Project Overview
My project involved developing an AI coaching tool that helps researchers submit stronger Letters of Intent (LOIs) for Foundation funding. This tool should ultimately improve the quality of proposals because it provides structured feedback on how well a proposal aligns with the Foundation’s research priorities before it’s submitted. The goals are to help researchers present their best proposal and optimize staff time during the review process.
Results
The LOI coaching tool is live at loi.fusfoundation.org and is on the Foundation’s website. It gives researchers specific feedback on how well their proposal fits the Foundation’s priorities before they submit. I also improved how the tool handles researcher information and added monitoring to keep it running smoothly.
Why were you initially interested in working with the Focused Ultrasound Foundation?
I wanted to be part of the AI initiatives the Foundation has been taking on. The chance to work at the intersection of AI and focused ultrasound, where the work can directly help improve people’s lives, was the kind of opportunity that interested me.
What is one concept, skill, or insight you’ll take with you from this internship?
My takeaway is learning to build something for people who aren’t engineers. Starting with what the user actually needs – not what’s technically interesting – completely changed how I approach a project.
How will your accomplishments impact the field of focused ultrasound?
AI is starting to play a real role in this field. For example, machine learning models or real-time software can control noninvasive acoustic energy therapies. This summer showed me how much room there is for AI engineers in this space, even without a medical background.