Josiah Hanna

I am an assistant professor in the Computer Sciences Department at the University of Wisconsin--Madison. The goal of my research is to create intelligent agents---robots and software systems---that learn to make decisions on their own---improving through experience rather than following fixed logic. Toward this goal, my work primarily focuses on reinforcement learning (RL) and spans algorithm design and applications, particularly in robotics. I lead the Prediction and Action Lab (PAL) where I work with a fantastic group of students and collaborators. I also advise a team of students that participates in the annual RoboCup competition, with a focus on developing learning-based approches to robot soccer.

I am part of the broader reinforcement learning and robotics groups at UW -- Madison and an affiliate of the Data Science Institute.

Prospective PhD Students: If you are a prospective PhD student interested in working with me, please apply to the UW–Madison CS PhD program and mention my name in your application. Due to the high volume of inquiries I receive, I am unfortunately unable to reply to individual prospective student emails. However, once you are accepted to the program, please feel free to contact me!

Prospective Undergraduate Students: If you are an undergraduate student already at UW–Madison interested in research opportunities with PAL or the RoboCup team, please fill out this Google Form. Once you have completed the form, feel free to reach out to me. Prospective students are also welcome to stop by my office hours to learn more or discuss potential projects.

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