Abdulaziz Houtari

Michigan State University - East Lansing, MI

Jan 2025 – May 2025

I led the implementation of a Hidden Trigger Backdoor Attack and evaluated its stealthiness using Neural Cleanse on TinyImageNet. I demonstrated initiative by modifying the original protocol and introducing novel anomaly detection metrics. Through close collaboration with my partner, I analyzed Neural Cleanse’s generalizability across attack types and empirically validated detection thresholds, showcasing strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and teamwork.

Michigan State University - East Lansing, MI

Aug 2024 - Dec 2024

I co-authored a research study investigating political bias detection in media using NLP and deep learning models. We implemented a CNN-GRU model with pre-trained GloVe embeddings on the MBIC and NewB datasets, achieving significant performance gains over prior models. I contributed to model training, data preprocessing, and comparative analysis with transformer-based architectures like BERT, focusing on nuanced bias classification across liberal, neutral, and conservative labels.

Michigan State University - East Lansing, MI

Aug 2024 - Dec 2024

I initiated and managed a medical image segmentation project, coordinating team responsibilities and timelines while fostering clear communication. I implemented U-Net and DeepLabV3 using the BraTS 2020 dataset and helped build an interactive visualization platform using NextJS and FastAPI. My leadership and problem-solving skills were key in navigating technical challenges and ensuring a well-rounded comparison using metrics such as Dice score and IoU.

Michigan State University - East Lansing, MI

Aug 2024 – Dec 2024

I proposed and led the development of a Genetic Algorithm-based approach to the Vehicle Routing Problem, balancing technical depth with project coordination. I applied strategic thinking and adaptability to explore both single- and multi-objective fitness functions, local search strategies, and constraint-aware heuristics. The project emphasized my ability to think critically, analyze results rigorously, and communicate findings clearly.

Michigan State University - East Lansing, MI

Jan 2024 - May 2024

I contributed to the conceptual development and technical implementation of a novel AI-integrated peer-to-peer search protocol using Ant Colony Optimization. I worked effectively in a distributed team, demonstrating time management, adaptability, and fast learning by quickly mastering unfamiliar tools such as PeerSIM. My communication and leadership skills were critical in iterating on feedback and refining our research proposal collaboratively.

University of Michigan - Dearborn, MI

Jan 2023 - Aug 2023

I collaborated with cross-functional team members and directly interfaced with clients to translate business requirements into a robust full-stack application. I contributed to system analysis and backend development using Django with NGINX, led mobile development in React Native, and coordinated the App Store deployment. My organizational and interpersonal skills helped align the team, ensure timely delivery, and maintain client satisfaction.

University of Michigan - Dearborn, MI

Jan 2023 - May 2023

I partnered with a graduate student to replicate and evaluate a cutting-edge deep learning paper focused on anomaly detection in computer vision. I applied strong analytical and technical writing skills to reimplement the paper’s models using both TensorFlow and PyTorch, while also navigating ambiguous documentation through collaborative troubleshooting and critical thinking.