October 2024
Mayuree Binjolkar, PhD, is a Research Scientist working at the intersection of transportation, artificial intelligence and human-decision making. She can be reached on LinkedIn.
​
What drew you to transportation research?
During my undergraduate studies, I focused on environmental engineering but also explored traffic engineering and transportation planning. This journey led me to the U.S. for air quality research, where I discovered the significant role of data in improving transportation infrastructure. At the University of Washington, known for its expertise in data science and machine learning, I found my niche at the intersection of transportation and AI. The challenges of decision-making, safety, and autonomy in transportation intrigued me, and I recognized AI as a valuable tool to tackle these issues. Today, my work centers on human driver decision-making, using deep learning to analyze how health conditions affect driving and enhance safety.
How do you think your personal experiences or perspectives have influenced your work/research in this area?
Growing up in diverse cultures across India, Israel, and the U.S., along with my interdisciplinary education, has shaped how I approach problem-solving. I see transportation not just as a technological challenge but as a human-centered system that needs to balance efficiency, safety, and accessibility. This perspective drives my research to make transportation systems safer and more inclusive for everyone.
What are some of the gender-related issues in transportation today that you hope to get involved with?
One gender-related issue in transportation that I want to get involved with is improving the safety of women in transit environments, such as buses, trains, and stations. Another key issue is the lack of gender inclusivity in transportation design and safety standards, as women have different travel patterns and vehicle safety measures often overlook these differences, increasing their risks. I aim to address this by promoting inclusive, data-driven solutions.
What advice do you have for someone who's interested in pursuing a career like yours but isn't sure where to start?
For those interested in a career like mine, starting with the fundamentals of transportation is essential. The field is interdisciplinary, with AI and data science playing key roles. Keeping an open mindset toward traditional problems can lead to innovative solutions. Gaining hands-on experience through projects or internships will deepen understanding, while connecting with peers and mentors offers valuable support.
What do you find most rewarding about what you do?
What I find most rewarding about my work is the impact it has on people's lives. While I'm involved in research, the ultimate goal is always to improve safety and make transportation more efficient, directly benefiting people in their daily routines.
Could you share a fun fact or interesting tidbit you've learned during your research?
A fun fact I've learned is how much easier it is to create initial prototypes for driver monitoring systems. What once required costly tools can now be achieved with low-cost sensors and open-source software. It's impressive to see students building these prototypes for class projects. This accessibility fuels my excitement about the future of innovation and impactful research.
​
This profile was prepared by AME20 Communications Coordinator Amy Fong.