Lehigh Launches Computer Science Initiative

Lehigh University has announced the launch a strategic university initiative that will expand Lehigh’s capacities for teaching and learning in computer and data science, while increasing access to such courses for students. The initiative, called Data X, will open Lehigh to recruit and hire new faculty in computer science and related fields, introduce the concepts of computer science to areas of study all across the university, which will position Lehigh as a leader in an increasingly essential field.

Professor and chair of Lehigh’s department of computer science and engineering, Daniel Lopresti, who has served as interim dean of the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science since July, will lead the Data X initiative. Lopresti is a widely respected researcher whose work in fundamental algorithmic and systems-related questions in pattern recognition, bioinformatics and computer security has placed him at the forefront of his field.

“Lehigh has long been a national leader in interdisciplinary teaching and research,” Interim President Kevin Clayton said in a press release. “Data X will build upon these strengths in an exciting and innovative way, at a time when computer and data science are shaping discovery and development in our economy, culture and society.”

According to the University, enrollment in computer science courses at Lehigh has increased 163 percent over the last five years. Data X will be better equipped to meet this demand and help students gain a competitive advantage in a market where more employers rely on computer-science competency. Data X will also help to shape how Lehigh approaches marketing analytics, bioengineering and, eventually, other fields as well.

regions: New York City / Philadelphia

About the Author