I think evolution and computers are both pretty cool.

How do organisms survive in messy and changing environments?
What evolutionary pathways have lead organisms to develop complicated behaviors?
Can we take inspiration from nature to help us create more complex and robust technology?

These are the broad questions I hope to dig into with my research, which leverages computer science techniques to investigate the interplay of evolution, phenotypic plasticity, and learning.

I am currently studying at Michigan State University pursuing a dual PhD in Computer Science and Engineering and Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior (EEB)! I work with Dr. Charles Ofria in the Digital Evolution laboratory as part of the BEACON Center for the Study of Evolution in Action. In May 2018 I obtained a Bachelor's degree at Shawnee State University with a dual major in Computer Engineering and Digital Simulation and Gaming.

Most useful information can be found on my research or publications pages. Sometimes I pretend to do things outside of graduate school, and such endeavours can be found here!

Feel free to contact me at ferguson.austin.j (at) Gmail!