UMassD alumni are now professors in cybersecurity and machine learning
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This fall, two recent UMass Dartmouth PhD graduates are starting the next chapter of their academic journeys as tenure-track faculty at leading institutions. Priscila de Paula Silva and Vidhyashree Nagaraju, both graduates of Professor Lance Fiondella’s lab, are researchers in cybersecurity and machine learning. Their new faculty appointments are a testament to the impact of UMassD-trained researchers on the national stage.
First-generation college student becomes an assistant professor at an R1 institution
Just months ago, first-generation college student Priscila de Paula Silva MS '22, PhD '25 won first place in the university’s annual Three Minute Thesis competition and was recognized with the Outstanding Graduate Student Researcher Award. Silva is now an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Texas at El Paso, an R1 research university.
Her work focuses on predictive reliability and resilience modeling for critical technologies including artificial intelligence, cyber-physical systems, and cybersecurity. By applying advanced statistical and machine learning methods, she develops tools to safeguard essential systems against adversarial threats and natural disasters.
Why UMass Dartmouth?
"I chose UMassD because of the unique opportunity to work with Dr. Lance Fiondella on resilience and reliability engineering research, focused on improving the performance of critical systems through statistical and machine learning methods. The program offered the perfect combination of programming and mathematical skills, a collaborative research culture, and opportunities to pursue projects with both academic and real-world impact, which was the foundation I needed to achieve my research goals.
"Another important factor that drew me to UMassD was its large international student and faculty community, and how welcoming they are. As an international student myself, this was a daily reminder that I was not alone in trying to build a career internationally and contribute to the growth of the U.S., one of the best countries in the world to conduct research with the potential for global impact."
How did UMassD help prepare you for your career?
"UMassD prepared me through rigorous research training, the opportunity to present and publish at top conferences and journals, collaboration on grant proposals, and the chance to mentor undergraduate and graduate students. I gained not only technical expertise but also teaching and leadership experience that directly prepared me for a tenure-track faculty role. The supportive environment and mentorship I received helped me grow into an independent researcher and educator, and I am grateful to carry that foundation forward into my career at the University of Texas at El Paso."
UMassD alumna is an assistant professor at a top 10 university
Vidhyashree Nagaraju MS '16, PhD '20 has joined Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University as an assistant professor of electrical engineering and computer science. Her research centers on software reliability research with an emphasis on statistical models, algorithms including machine learning and AI, and creating practitioner friendly workflows and open source tools.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is ranked #4 among the top aerospace and aeronautical engineering schools in the U.S. according to U.S. News and World Report.
Why did you choose UMassD for your master's degree and PhD?
"I chose UMass Dartmouth because of the opportunities and mentoring provided by my advisor, Dr. Lance Fiondella. His guidance and encouragement were central to my decision not only to join UMassD but also to continue my studies there. The research opportunities and supportive academic environment created a space where I could grow both personally and professionally."
How did UMassD help prepare you for your current career?
"UMassD provided me with strong research and teaching experiences that prepared me well for my current role as a faculty member at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The supportive environment and mentorship I received gave me the foundation and confidence to pursue an academic career."