UIS professor examines reliability of AI predictions for drug discovery

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (Nov. 5, 2026) - A new study by University of Illinois Springfield computer science associate professor Yanhui Guo finds that improving average uncertainty estimates in AI models does not guarantee dependable estimates for unfamiliar molecules or better selection of drug-discovery candidates.

The University of Illinois Springfield College of Business and Management hosted a panel discussion during the recent Dean’s Advisory Board meeting on October 29, 2026, exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming business practices, the workplace, and higher education: bringing together industry leaders to explore how artificial intelligence is changing the workplace and the skills students need to succeed.

Professor Yanhui Guo will serve as chancellor’s associate for institutional AI strategy, and Katie Pavelko as chancellor’s associate for professional development.

Finding information on the University of Illinois Springfield website is now easier than ever.

UIS has launched a new UIS AI Chat across the UIS website to help prospective students, current students, families, alumni and community members quickly find answers to their questions using official university website content.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how people learn and work, and at the University of Illinois Springfield, faculty are ensuring students are prepared to navigate and shape that change.

Across disciplines, UIS faculty are integrating AI into coursework, research and community-focused projects, giving students hands-on experience with tools and concepts that are changing the workforce.

Here are just a few of the ways AI is being used at UIS:

Innovate Springfield, the University of Illinois Springfield’s downtown hub for business incubation and talent development, is launching a six-week artificial intelligence workshop series designed to help local businesses implement practical AI solutions.

The hands-on program begins Feb. 26 and is already drawing strong interest, with nine local businesses signed up to participate. Businesses can still reserve a spot.

AI Steering Committee Updates

The AI Steering Committee is launching Special Interest Groups (SIG) for each of the dimensions outlined in the UIS AI Education Governance Framework. These SIGs will play a crucial role in operationalizing the framework. Each group will be responsible for:

Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) Integrating Physics and Machine Learning: A Synergistic Approach to Artificial Intelligence Education

This story was reported by NPR Illinois on April 8, 2025.

"AI is at the forefront and is making its way into our everyday lives. During the March 2025 Lunch and Learn Series, Dr. Hei-Chi Chan, UIS associate professor of mathematical sciences and philosophy and co-founder of the university’s AI Campus Learning Community, gave a presentation on the evolution of AI, the university's AI Campus Learning Community, how students can make the best use of AI, and the future of AI in our society. UIS is offering a camp on AI this summer."