We spoke with Ángel Rojas, a Mathematics major from Machala who works on a deterministic model for the training of artificial neural networks.

For Ángel Rojas, Mathematics is a good tool for not doubting that the conclusions of human logical thinking come close to what could be the truth; it is the lingua franca of science. He decided to study this major because it provided him with the best tools to satisfy his need to understand ‘the reason behind things’. In addition, he always had an aptitude for Mathematics. When he was in school, he won the Kanguro Matemático Olympics in Ecuador. However, what finally convinced him to choose that major was a conversation with the Dean of the School of Mathematical and Computational Sciences, Andreas Griewank, Ph.D.

Ángel has worked with the Dean for a year and a half in research that became his thesis project: Training of neural networks with a deterministic method of optimization. His thesis project seeks to solve a problem that is formulated when training artificial neural networks. Nowadays, the methods most used when training these artificial intelligence systems is the probabilistic methods that have biases. Therefore, both researchers worked on finding solutions to this problem. Finally, they managed to formulate a more precise deterministic model than probabilistic models. This was done based on the adaptation of the Automatic Differentiation for the use of computer tools, which was made by Andreas Griewank in 1981.

Angel hopes to see good results of his research. Therefore, he hopes to obtain a Ph.D. in Mathematics, during which he wishes to continue developing the same research topic. Angel believes that it is necessary to give a little twist to research in this field.

He considers himself a person who adapts easily, as long as he is in an environment where he finds quality, in any sense. This is why one of the things that he will miss the most about Yachay Tech is the academic excellence. He says that his professors’ experiences have given feedback to his perspective of what science is and how to use it to answer different questions as the truth and the reason behind things.

Ángel will also miss the coexistence with his mates. He has created bonds that allow him to express himself freely even when someone has a different opinion. When he first arrived at Yachay Tech, he lived with students from El Oro, Manabí and Riobamba. For him, the chemistry was instantaneous. “I am very enthusiastic about the idea that after graduation we will maintain this relationship, even a scientific one,” he says.