Mingi Jeong is a PhD student in the computer science program. Mingi recently received a 2025 Neukom Prize for Outstanding Graduate Research in Computational Science.
What do you consider your hometown and how has it shaped you today?
Busan, South Korea, is my spiritual hometown. Although I was born and raised in Daegu, I have spent a significant amount of time in Busan since my school years and during my time in industry at Hyundai, before starting my PhD Busan is a major metropolitan city and one of the world’s top five ports, located in the southern part of the Korean Peninsula near the Pacific Ocean.
There, I was naturally exposed to naval architecture, the shipping and port industries, and the broader marine business. I also fell in love with the scenic views of the Haeundae and Marine City areas. These personal experiences shaped me into someone who deeply loves the ocean and is naturally drawn to the field of marine robotics.
Where did you complete your undergraduate studies, and how did your time there set the course for your future in robotics and AI?
I completed my undergraduate studies at Korea Maritime and Ocean University in South Korea and New York Maritime College in the U.S. Through the Regiment of Cadets, I gained technical skills in ocean engineering and maritime science, along with discipline, leadership, teamwork, and risk management experience. After graduation, I served as a Chief Mate on large ocean-going vessels (over 300 meters in length and valued at more than $200 million), responsible for crew safety, cargo, and global navigation.
A turning point came when I led a rescue operation in the Pacific Ocean, saving three people stranded on a yacht after a 10-hour navigation and 4-hour search. This incident, covered by U.S. media, made me ask: “Even with advanced navigation systems, why do such accidents still happen?”
It sparked my passion for developing robust, AI-driven autonomous systems that can improve safety and decision-making at sea. This drive led me to shift from ocean engineering to computer science and focus on marine robotics with societal impact in areas like environmental monitoring, search and rescue, and transportation.
What is your program at Dartmouth?
I am currently pursuing a PhD in the department of computer science and am a member of the Reality and Robotics Lab, advised by Professor Alberto Quattrini Li.
Why did you choose Dartmouth to pursue your degree?
While pursuing marine autonomy, most of the programs I was accepted to were in mechanical or ocean engineering—fields closely aligned with my previous background. However, recognizing that the future of marine autonomy increasingly depends on AI and robotics, I wanted to strengthen my expertise in algorithm development from a computer science perspective and hands-on learning with hardware system development.
At a career development session during the OCEANS conference, I met my mentor, Dr. Stephanie Kemna, who introduced me to my current advisor, Dr. Alberto Quattrini Li. I found that the research focus of the Reality and Robotics Lab, along with Dartmouth’s computer science curriculum, aligned closely with my goal of developing robust marine autonomy systems.
Since joining, I’ve been genuinely excited about the opportunities at Dartmouth and the chance to collaborate with others, including Dr. V.S. Subrahmanian at Northwestern University and Dr. Kathryn Cottingham in Dartmouth’s Department of Biological Sciences.
Tell us about your research—what questions are you exploring, and what inspired you to dive into this work?
My research focuses on “how can we build intelligent systems capable of robust, persistent decision-making in complex and unstructured environments?” with an emphasis on autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs).
My work is distinguished by: (1) a full-stack robotic decision-making process that integrates sensing and control; (2) real-world, on-field validation; (3) targeted contributions to both algorithms and systems; and (4) interdisciplinary collaborations that enable non-roboticists to operate these systems.
The ocean economy contributes over $1.5 trillion annually, and coastal regions support 40% of the global population. As marine autonomy gains attention—highlighted by recent IMO (International Maritime Organization under UN) efforts—navigation safety remains a critical barrier. Challenges stem from unstructured waterways, complex dynamics, and uncertain sensor data.
Despite progress, robust marine autonomy is still immature. My research philosophy seeks to close this gap by leveraging domain-specific knowledge to develop resilient systems. This goal-oriented approach has led to key outcomes, including a patent and collaborations with interdisciplinary teams to ensure impact beyond the robotics community.
How does it feel to receive the Neukom Graduate Research Prize? What does this recognition mean to you?
I am humbled and honored to receive the Neukom Graduate Research Prize. Having transitioned from ocean engineering to computer science, this recognition is especially meaningful and something I am deeply proud of.
Throughout my PhD journey in computer science at Dartmouth, I have focused on developing computational thinking and problem-solving skills for real-world applications such as robotics, as well as broader societal challenges like transportation and environmental monitoring.
I remain committed to this research philosophy—grounded in computational approaches—with the goal of contributing to both technological innovation and societal impact. I would like to sincerely thank my advisor and collaborators who have supported and enabled this work.
Which resources, career support programs, or professional development opportunities at Dartmouth have been most valuable to you, and how have they impacted your experience?
I found the career support programs offered by DCAL and the Guarini School to be incredibly helpful. They played a key role in my successful transition to a tenure-track Assistant Professor position at Virginia Tech, starting this year.
For example, I participated in workshops, organized by Cindy Rosalbo and Kerry Landers, on how to write research, teaching, and diversity statements, and benefited from mock interview sessions with peer feedback involving students from various departments.
I actively engaged in these opportunities not only for my own career development but also to support other junior graduate students—for instance, by serving on a teaching assistant panel.
As an international student, I also received tremendous support in fellowship and grant writing through the Writing Center, particularly from Elizabeth Tremmel. I am deeply grateful for the resources and opportunities Dartmouth has provided throughout my academic journey.
What advice would you give to other graduate students about making the most of the resources available through Guarini?
I encourage colleagues to participate consistently, even in small opportunities or events. I used to—and still sometimes do—feel shy speaking in front of large groups, but I’ve made a conscious effort to step outside of my comfort zone.
This has been crucial for my career development, especially when it came time to engage in academic job interviews and conferences, where I needed to confidently discuss a wide range of topics with new people.
I strongly believe that engaging with Guarini’s resources early and consistently helps you gradually build the mindset and confidence needed for a successful academic journey, often without even realizing it.
For example, developing a teaching philosophy isn’t something that happens overnight; it requires time, reflection, and exposure to different perspectives, which these programs help facilitate.
What is your favorite place or activity that you like best in the Hanover area?
I enjoy visiting local cafés like Still North, Dirt Cowboy, and Starbucks to grab a cup of coffee and relax on the Dartmouth Green. It gives me a chance to unwind and think outside the box.
In my free time, I also go to CrossFit at my gym, CrossFit Off the Green. I have really enjoyed the challenging workouts, meeting new friends, and connecting with a community outside of my academic environment. As someone on the long and demanding PhD journey, I’ve found CrossFit to be incredibly beneficial for both my mental and physical health over the past few years.
