YEREVAN, Armenia — The American University of Armenia’s (AUA) Zaven P. and Sonia Akian College of Science and Engineering (CSE) is pleased to announce that a group of undergraduate students, under the guidance of Dr. Sachin Kumar, has recently published a research paper in Machine Learning for Computational Science and Engineering, a new peer-reviewed journal by Springer. This achievement marks a significant milestone for both the students and Dr. Kumar. The paper, authored by undergraduate students as part of their Machine Learning course, is the outcome of an innovative new pedagogical experiment designed to introduce students to the process of academic publishing.
As part of this experiment, the course was redesigned to include a research and article-writing component. While the quality of research may not yet meet advanced academic standards, the publication demonstrates a valuable shift: offering students with heavy course loads and little research background an opportunity to experience the academic publication process firsthand.
Dr. Kumar behind the initiative views this first publication as a notable accomplishment for the students. “This was an experiment on my part to demonstrate that even undergraduate students, with the right motivation and supervision, can engage in the process of academic research and take their first steps toward publication,” he said. “Considering that this research was accomplished within a single semester, it represents a meaningful and promising start.”
Dr. Kumar believes that beyond individual achievement, this initiative serves the dual purpose of enhancing student learning while also contributing to AUA’s growing academic culture. Although it required considerable time and effort on his part, he is pleased with the outcome and plans to continue incorporating similar opportunities for article writing and publication in his future courses. “Start early, succeed early. Research knows no age,” he remarked.
One of the students, Sona Barseghyan (BSDS ’ 26), reflected on the experience, “Writing this article was a journey filled with excitement, challenges, learning, and plenty of late-night debugging. Along the way, I had the opportunity to collaborate with my co-authors — Zhanna, Armine, and Anna — as we navigated uncertainty, exchanged ideas, and worked together to contribute to meaningful research. With Dr. Kumar’s dedicated supervision, the process of writing and publishing this work became a deeply rewarding experience and a proud milestone in my academic journey. This experience has inspired me to continue pursuing research and writing opportunities in the future.”
According to the professor, four additional papers by student groups are currently under review at other venues.
Dr. Kumar also expressed sincere thanks to AUA Provost Dr. Alina Gharabegian and former CSE Dean Dr. Aram Hajian for their support, trust, and encouragement.
By integrating publication-oriented assignments into the Machine Learning curriculum, this initiative highlights the importance of creating real-world academic experiences for students early in their academic careers, reflecting AUA’s broader commitment to fostering a strong research culture. By integrating hands-on research opportunities into the undergraduate curriculum, the University continues to advance its mission of academic excellence and innovation in education.
Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.