Workshop Title:

Mastering the Art of GANs: Unleashing Creativity with Generative Adversarial Networks

Date:

November 6th, 2024 (CDT)

Organizer:

ITM Department, Illinois Institute of Technology, USA

Keywords:

• Generative Adversarial Networks
• AI Innovation
• Neural Networks
• Hands-On Training
• Practical Applications
• Ethical Implications
• Machine Learning
• Interactive Sessions
• Technology Evolution
• Professional Networking

Workshop Chair:

Personal Bio:

Dr. Omar's Academic career has consistently focused on applied, industry-relevant cyber security, Data Analytics, machine learning, application of AI to cyber security and digital forensics research and education that delivers real-world results. He brings a unique combination of industry experience as well as teaching experience gained from teaching across different cultures and parts of the world. He has an established self-supporting program in machine learning application to cyber security. He has established a respectable research record in AI and cyber security exemplified in the dozens of published papers and book chapters that have gained recognition among researchers and practitioners (more than 272 Google scholar citations thus far). He is actively involved in graduate as well as undergraduate machine learning education including curriculum development and assessment.

Dr. Omar has recently published two books with Springer on Machine Learning and Cyber Security and has also published research with IEEE conference on Sematic Computing. Additionally, Dr. Omar holds numerous industry certifications including Comptia Sec+, ISACA CDPSE, EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker, and SANS Advanced Smartphone Forensics Analyst.

Dr. Omar has been very active and productive in both academia as well as the industry and he is currently serving as an associate professor of cyber security at Illinois Institute of Technology.

Workshop Description:

Background:

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), a groundbreaking innovation in the field of artificial intelligence, have revolutionized how machines understand and generate new content. Conceptualized by Ian Goodfellow and his colleagues in 2014, GANs represent a significant leap in deep learning and neural networks. At their core, GANs consist of two neural networks, the Generator and the Discriminator, engaged in a continuous game. The Generator creates data that is indistinguishable from real data, while the Discriminator learns to distinguish between genuine and artificial data. This dynamic rivalry drives the system towards producing highly realistic outputs, ranging from images and music to text and voice.

The potential applications of GANs are vast and diverse, spanning across various sectors including art, healthcare, entertainment, and more. They have been instrumental in image and video generation, style transfer, and even drug discovery. GANs also pose fascinating philosophical questions about the nature of creativity and the potential of machines to emulate or even enhance human creativity.

Our workshop aims to demystify the complexities of GANs, providing a comprehensive background that combines theoretical understanding with practical insights. Participants will explore the history, development, and current applications of GANs, gaining a solid foundation in this transformative technology. Whether you're a beginner in AI or an experienced practitioner, this workshop will enhance your understanding and skills in the realm of generative models.

Goal/Rationale:

This workshop is designed to achieve multiple goals, tailored to provide a thorough understanding and hands-on experience with Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs). Firstly, participants will gain a foundational grasp of the theoretical concepts underpinning GANs, including their architecture, functioning, and the principles of adversarial training. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the symbiotic relationship between the Generator and Discriminator networks.

Secondly, the workshop aims to showcase practical applications of GANs in various fields. Through interactive sessions, participants will witness firsthand how GANs can be applied in image synthesis, creative arts, and more, offering a glimpse into the potential future impacts of this technology.

Lastly, the workshop is designed to equip attendees with the skills to implement basic GAN models. Through guided exercises, participants will learn to code and train their own GANs, fostering a deeper, practical understanding of the subject. This hands-on approach ensures that attendees leave with not only theoretical knowledge but also applicable skills in GAN technology.

Scope and Information for Participants:

The scope of this workshop encompasses a comprehensive exploration of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), tailored for a diverse audience ranging from AI enthusiasts to professionals. Participants can expect a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of GANs. The workshop will cover the basics of neural networks, delve into the intricacies of GAN architecture, and explore the latest advancements and ethical considerations in the field.

For those interested in hands-on learning, the workshop includes sessions on coding and training GAN models, requiring a basic understanding of programming and machine learning principles. Participants are advised to bring their own laptops, equipped with necessary software as communicated prior to the event. Resources like datasets, code templates, and instructional materials will be provided.

Networking opportunities with fellow attendees and industry experts will also be a key aspect, encouraging collaboration and knowledge exchange. This workshop promises to be an insightful and enriching experience for anyone keen on delving into the world of GANs.

Venue:

Illinois Institute of Technology, 10 W 35th St, Chicago, IL 60616

VISA:

U.S. Visas (state.gov)

In order to ensure the information is correct and up to date, there may be changes which we are not aware of. And different countries have different rules for the visa application. It is always a good idea to check the latest regulations in your country. This page just gives some general information of the visa application.

US Visa Information

The B-1/B-2 visitor visa is for people traveling to the United States temporarily for business (B-1) or for pleasure or medical treatment (B-2). Generally, the B-1 visa is for travelers consulting with business associates; attending scientific, educational, professional, or business conventions/conferences; settling an estate; or negotiating contracts. The B-2 visa is for travel that is recreational in nature, including tourism; visits with friends or relatives; medical treatment; and activities of a fraternal, social, or service nature. Often, the B-1 and B-2 visas are combined and issued as one visa: the B-1/B-2.

Application Items

If you apply for a business/tourist visa, you must pay your $160 application fee and submit the following:

• A Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form. Visit the DS-160 web page for more information about the DS-160.
• A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions). If more than one person is included in your passport, each person desiring a visa must submit an application.
• One (1) 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) photograph taken within the last six months.
• If a visa is issued, there may be an additional visa issuance reciprocity fee, depending on your nationality.

In addition to these items, you must present an interview appointment letter confirming that you booked an appointment through this service. You may also bring whatever supporting documents you believe support the information provided to the consular officer.

Supporting Documents

• Invitation letter from business or school.
• Detailed CV or resume including a list of publications.
• Complete itinerary, including all meetings, conferences, and visits; include names, addresses, and telephone numbers of your hosts.
• For other materials, please refer to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website.

NOTICE:

Should your application be denied, the organizing committee cannot change the decision of visa officer, nor will CONF-MLA engage in discussion or correspondence with the visa application center on behalf of the applicant. The registration fee CANNOT be refunded when the VISA application of individual being denied.

Attend in person:

If you want to attend the workshop on-site, please email the Conference Committee: [email protected].