The 2025 issue of Rice Engineering and Computing Magazine is here!
In our 50th anniversary issue, we celebrate the deep and growing connection between engineering and computing. From our early breakthroughs in high-performance computing to today’s advances in AI and data science, Rice has long been at the forefront of computing innovation. This edition highlights some of the people, ideas, and investments shaping what’s next.
Featured
From the Dean
Rice Engineering and Computing builds on a legacy of innovation to lead in AI, data science, and the technologies that define our future.
Future Processing
Computing is now embedded in nearly every aspect of modern life. Learn how Rice engineers are designing smarter, more efficient computing systems to power AI and meet the growing demands of our digital world.
Responsible AI for a 21st Century World
As the capabilities of artificial intelligence continue to grow, Rice Engineering and Computing faculty are providing leadership in responsible AI stewardship.
50 Years of Innovation and Impact
Engineered at Rice. Proven in Houston. Built for the world. Look back on 50 years that laid the foundation for engineering innovation that impacts our lives today.
In the Hedges
School of Engineering Renamed
Rice University’s school of engineering is now the George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing.
Latest News Headlines
Read the latest news about how Rice and MD Anderson advance cancer-focused operations research and how researchers innovate smarter wearable tech.
State of the School
The school continues to experience growth, with enrollment increasing by 13% for undergraduates and 52% for graduate students over the past five years.
Rice Engineering Remembers Esteemed Faculty
The engineering community remembers faculty whose contributions shaped the university’s academic landscape.
Rice in the World
What do a student in Vietnam, a teacher in Nigeria, and a professor in Poland have in common? They’re all part of OpenStax’s global movement to make education free and accessible.
Rice and Houston Methodist Launch Digital Health Initiative
Rice and Houston Methodist have launched the Digital Health Institute to develop AI-driven solutions that improve healthcare and train future leaders in digital health.
Five Stories That Excite Us
Engineering innovation is happening all around us. Check out these five stories – from Houston and beyond.
New Faculty
Thirty-two new hires spanning all nine departments further establish the school’s prominence in its key research areas.
Ideas + Research
Computing + X
Computing’s rise and the advent of generative AI are driving Rice researchers to transform science, healthcare, and sustainability.
Huff Engineering Design Showcase honors student ingenuity and impact
At the 2025 OEDK Showcase, Rice engineering students presented impactful hands-on projects—from satellites to spinal surgery—demonstrating real-world innovation.
Throughline
Rice’s data science community is transforming data into discovery—and building a better future.
People + Perspectives
In Their Own Words
Hear from Maryam Aliakbarpour, assistant professor of computer science, about navigating the data era.
A Framework for Success
Mohit Aron ’98, ’00 credits his Rice Ph.D. with teaching him to generate knowledge—a skill he used to build two multibillion-dollar companies and pioneer hyperconverged infrastructure.
Five Questions for Lydia Kavraki
Lydia Kavraki reflects on a career focused on physical artificial intelligence—and how thoughtful, foundational research can shape the future of AI.
Alumni
Rice Engineering Alumni Report
Get an update from Ted Adams, REA President, on the group’s accomplishments this past year.
Summer Engineering Experience Prepares Students for the Future
The Summer Engineering Experience gives early-stage students professional engineering opportunities.
REA Supports Students Cooking Up Real-World Solutions in the OEDK
The OEDK has served as a collaborative, hands-on space where Rice engineering students design real-world solutions for clients across industries.
