Dr. Zhuolin Yang joining UA Department of Computer Science!
Welcome new Assistant Professor!
Dr. Zhuolin Yang will be joining the Department of Computer Science faculty in fall 2025. We asked Dr. Yang to answer our "Getting to know you" questions. Responses below.
Educational background/short bio:
I received my BSc degree in Computer Science in 2018 from the University at Buffalo. I received MSc and PhD degrees in Computer Science from the University of Chicago in 2022 and 2025, respectively. During the final year of my PhD, I was fortunate to receive a job offer from the Department of Computer Science at the University of Arizona, which I was delighted to accept.
Research interests:
As a security researcher, I explore the intersection of artificial intelligence/machine learning and usable security. Specifically, my work examines how advances in AI/ML and personal/wearable devices are challenging traditional security assumptions, and I adapt these advancements to design both novel attacks and effective defenses. To give a concrete example, I adapted self-supervised learning and self-attention mechanisms to develop practical keystroke inference attacks: Imagine someone walks into a café, takes out their phone, and secretly records a person typing for a few minutes across the room. Later, they use just the video to figure out what was typed.
Why did you apply to join the University of Arizona Department of Computer Science?
The Department of Computer Science at the University of Arizona has great academic quality. At its foundation are great people. Passionate faculty bring great direction, research, and knowledge. Dedicated staff ensure effective organization and support. Additionally, the University of Arizona is recognized for its established, diverse academic programs and exceptional students. I am grateful to be part of this community. It is a valuable opportunity and an exciting journey ahead.
What made you interested in pursuing a career in higher education/the academy?
Years ago, I talked to a renowned professor in a conference. I asked him pretty much the same question. He told me “I need to find a way to willingly spend my time.” I keep this answer in my heart because it speaks truth. Academia can be quite challenging, yet every time I look back and ask myself whether I regret spending my time here, the answer is always a heartfelt no. I feel grateful for the projects I’ve explored, the conversations I’ve shared, and the failures I’ve encountered. That’s why I decided to continue on this journey.
What are you looking forward to most in coming to UA?
I am excited to begin my new journey at UA. It’s like going on a road trip. You have some great scenic spots in mind, but the best views are often the unexpected ones you discover along the way. I am especially looking forward to discovering them.
Any other information you would like students, staff, faculty, alumni, etc. to know about you.
I love road trips! I’ve driven across China from Guangdong to Xinjiang, journeyed from Chicago to Tucson along Route 66 in the U.S., and taken shorter trips around the Great Lakes, Utah, and even Copenhagen. I recently went on a road trip along the West Coast. I can’t wait to add more to the list!