Faculty Spotlight

Viktoria Savatorova

Assistant Professor, Mathematical Sciences

I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences. I have always been fascinated by the 'magic' of translating observable phenomena in physics, chemistry, or biology into mathematical equations. I do not need equipment other than a computer to run my "experiments", and I find satisfaction when experimental measurements and observations align with the results I predicted in my computations. I like working on mathematical problems arising in geophysics and engineering disciplines. 

Recently I started several projects on mathematical modeling for life sciences. This spring, my students and I are working on the project centered on the impact of climate change on the environmental health of Long Island Sound Embayment. I enjoy integrating real-world applications into my mathematics teaching. 

Outside of teaching and research, I find joy in hiking and exploring new places.

Nilda Alicea-Velázquez

Associate Professor, Biochemistry

My research interests are focused on the characterization of protein-protein interactions using structural and biochemical approaches. Particularly, I make use of macromolecular X-ray crystallography and protein chemistry techniques to further understand the behavior of proteins involved in cytokine signaling and in epigenetic regulation.

As a mentor to undergraduate researchers, I aim to teach students fundamental techniques that will be valuable to students that are interested in pursuing advanced degrees in biochemistry or those who are interested in careers in biotechnology. Specifically, students gain experience in bacterial transformation and culture, recombinant protein expression, protein purification using different chromatographic techniques, OAS-PAGE electrophoresis, basics of protein structure determination, and critical reading of scientific literature.

When I’m not in the classroom or the lab, you can find me at the dance studio teaching Zumba® classes. This space that I have carved out for myself allows me to unwind and feel connected to my Puerto Rican roots, while at the same time helping others reach their fitness goals.  

“Science and everyday life cannot and should not be separated” -Rosalind Franklin

Bin Zhou

Professor, Civil Engineering

My research enthusiasm and expertise lie in quantitative analyses and modeling techniques, which can be applied in many areas of transportation systems and regional policy.  My most recent research emphasizes spatial econometrics in land development, integrated transport-land use models, agent-based modeling and simulation, travel survey and travel behavior analysis, transportation safety, and STEM education and outreach.

I am passionate about prompting STEM among young generations and advancing historically underrepresented groups in STEM. I am a faculty advisor to Central’s Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) student clubs and an active member of Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS).

Chad Williams

Professor, Computer Science

My current research interest is in combining artificial intelligence and cybersecurity for intrusion detection.

Outside of the classroom, I'm into pretty much any sport or outdoor physical activity (lacrosse, volleyball, football, hockey, soccer, running particularly XC, skiing, just to name a few). I also love photography.