Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Student Organization (CIGSO)
The Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Student Organization (CIGSO) represents students in the Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs (CIGP), fostering communication and collaboration amongst the student community. Since students in the CIGP span a wide array of departments across Purdue, the CIGSO promotes academic and social communication amongst students and facilitates interaction between students and faculty. The CIGSO also provides a forum in which CIGP students can voice their concerns and expectations.
Mission Statement
The goal of Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Program Student Organization (CIGSO) is to encourage graduate students to develop computational skills for enhancing their research and to aid them in disseminating their expertise to the Purdue student community.
Mark Wilkinson
CIGSO President
Department: Mechanical Engineering
Advisor: Ilias Bilionis
Research Description
Inverse problems and uncertainty quantification in computational solid mechanics are the focus of my current research. I specialize in parameter estimation for soft biological tissues and damage mechanics. We use finite‑element software to model the mechanical behavior of biological systems under stress, and we couple the results with scientific machine‑learning paradigms to perform inference. From these measurements, we obtain estimates of the underlying material model and assess its quality of fit, as well as identify changes due to factors such as disease. This approach enables the development of clinical devices for detecting tissue disorders and providing physicians with better treatment options.
Why CIGP?
The broad applicability which different methods in science can have on multiple disciplines the true power of it. Some of the best advances have been from completely unrelated fields. Previously, coupling scientific disciplines was more difficult as the tools and thinking seemed very different and the message got lost in translation. However, computing has become the rosetta stone of scientific advancement and a universal tool for any research endeavor. Fostering and enriching an interdisciplinary community, both socially and academically, is critical to advance the future. I joined CIGP to connect with those which I wouldn’t have had the opportunity otherwise, and I hope to be the reason why people from all backgrounds come together to make the world a better place.
Himabindu Kovvali
CIGSO Vice President
Department: Mechanical Engineering
Advisor: Arezoo Ardekani
Research Description
Why CIGP?
Daye Kwon
CIGSO Treasurer
Department: Biological Sciences
Advisor: John Tesmer
Research Description
I am a structural biologist studying G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their regulatory kinases with a focus on Smoothened (Smo), which is a key transducer in the Hedgehog signaling pathway, essential for GLI activation in development and disease. My research investigates how GRK2, a GPCR kinase, specifically recognizes and phosphorylates the active-state Smo. This is a poorly understood yet critical step in Hedgehog signal transduction, and to address this, I integrate cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) with other biophysical techniques such as X-ray crystallography, mass spectrometry, and molecular dynamics simulations to resolve interaction interfaces and conformational changes at atomic resolution. The long-term goal of my project is to elucidate the structural mechanisms by which GRK2 modulates Smo activity, ultimately informing therapeutic strategies for Hedgehog-driven cancers and developmental disorders.
Why CIGP?
As a structural biologist, I rely heavily on integrative computational tools, including cryo-EM image processing in my research. My field exemplifies the growing intersection between experimental biology and computation, and I joined CIGP not only to deepen my computational skillset but also to represent the unique perspectives of the biological sciences community. Throughout my graduate training, I aim to engage in impactful workshops, interdisciplinary collaborations, and professional development opportunities that benefit students across STEM fields. I am committed to helping CIGP foster a collaborative and inclusive environment where computation drives discovery across all disciplines.
