Many fundamental computational tasks are performed on a graph, which is a mathematical abstraction of interactions in a network. In many applications the input graph is dynamic, i.e., it undergoes changes over time, and the output must be efficiently adjusted after each update. As examples of such dynamic graphs, imagine a social network in which new connections are formed over time, or a transportation network in which certain links get deleted due to a road blockage.
Solving two problems
Nazari will develop algorithms for two problems related to dynamic graphs. The first problem is developing algorithms that return good estimates to shortest path distances between elements in the network. The second problem is partitioning the graph into clusters such that closer (or more similar) elements are more likely to be clustered together.
Provably faster algorithms
Modern day computing applications need to handle very large-scale data efficiently. Processing such large-scale data requires significant computational resources and can become infeasible when the input is frequently changing. Thus, we need algorithms that can handle such changes quickly and with minimal resources. Having provably faster algorithms for these fundamental tasks is crucial for developing efficient computational solutions across different application domains.
Veni
The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) has awarded Yasamin Nazari a Veni grant, allowing her to further develop her research on algorithms over the next three years. The NWO Talent Programme gives researchers the freedom to conduct their research driven by creativity and passion. They receive up to 320,000 euros. The programme encourages innovation and curiosity. Free research contributes to and prepares us for the society of tomorrow. Therefore, NWO focuses on a diversity of scientists, domains, and backgrounds. Veni, together with the Vidi and Vici grants, is part of the Talent Programme.
NWO selects researchers based on the scientific quality and innovative nature of the research proposal, the scientific and/or societal impact of the proposed project, and the quality of the researcher.