Anasse Bari
Professor of Computer Science, Director of the Predictive Analytics and AI Research Lab, NYU Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences
Current research focus
I focus on two fundamental areas of research: (1) developing AI algorithms inspired by bird flocking behavior and (2) applying AI-driven predictive analytics to real-world challenges.
The spectacular behavior of birds in a flock, and even neural networks, have led us to nature-inspired AI algorithms that can be seen as a set of data points flying in a self-organized manner. In computer science, flocking behavior is also known as Swarm Intelligence, which is the property of a system in which the collective behaviors of agents interacting locally with their environment cause coherent functional global patterns to emerge—much like how hundreds of birds turn simultaneously. By studying how birds self-organize, I aim to create smarter, more creative AI models that uncover hidden data patterns, and reduce user bias.
Meanwhile, my team and I use AI to tackle pressing issues—from pandemic prediction to election analysis to climate change. Predictive analytics, a technology that learns from experience, is a branch of AI that uncovers patterns, predicts the future, and has the potential to shape it. At the Predictive Analytics and AI Research Lab that I have been directing for the past 10 years here at NYU, my research students and I are researching, designing, and deploying AI-driven predictive analytics tools to address challenges in healthcare, energy, politics, finance, and society. This work has not only provided impactful tools for society, but also inspired the next generation to serve the world.
Recent publications
Exploring Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine Hesitancy on Twitter Using Sentiment Analysis and Natural Language Processing Algorithms. This 2022 study examines how tracking and analyzing social media vaccine sentiment could better prepare health professionals for vaccination conversations and campaigns.
Pyrorank: A Novel Nature-Inspired Algorithm to Promote Diversity in Recommender Systems. This 2023 paper explores Pyrorank, inspired by the positive effects of pyrodiversity (fire effects) in nature, as a novel bio-inspired ranking algorithm.
Favorite course to teach
Teaching is not just about sharing knowledge—it’s about inspiring students to think critically, creatively, and ethically, preparing them to face the challenges of tomorrow. Predictive analytics and AI related courses are particularly fulfilling to teach because they enable students to explore the power of data to predict outcomes and apply their skills to solving real-world problems.
Another one of my favorite courses to teach is Introduction to Computer Science, a very large class that ignited my passion for teaching. Many of the students are encountering the subject for the first time, and watching them grow into problem-solvers and critical thinkers is incredibly rewarding.
Within the framework of my lab and beyond the classroom, I also teach seminar courses on AI research to over 80 students in collaboration with NYU Arts and Science. These courses offer experiential learning opportunities that include travel to various sites. Our most recent trips took us to NYU Florence and NYU Berlin.
Anasse with his mother and mentor, Rachida Bargach, in Bryant Park in New York City
An influential mentor
My mentor was my mother, Rachida Bargach. She raised me with strong values—kindness, hard work, and integrity. She deeply valued education and instilled in me the importance of always striving for excellence, and reminded me that knowledge is both a privilege and a responsibility.
Even after I began my career as a professor, she remained a guiding force in my life. She knew my schedule, attended my classes, and even gave me feedback. More than that, she met my students, taking genuine interest in their growth and aspirations. Her presence was a constant source of strength and inspiration.
Before she passed, she left me with one final piece of advice: to continue educating the next generation of thinkers—not just in computer science and AI but also in the values of family, respect, equity, kindness, and integrity. Through her wisdom, I strive to be the kind of professor who not only teaches but uplifts, inspires, and prepares students for the future.
Recent academic awards
My 2022 Golden Dozen Award, 2024 Teach Tech Award, and 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Faculty Award are deeply meaningful to me, as they reflect the values I strive to instill in my students every day. Dr. King once said, “Not everyone can be famous, but everyone can be great because greatness is determined by service.” This philosophy guides my approach to teaching and research—I encourage my students to use their skills not just to innovate, but to serve. Whether combating misinformation, advancing medical research, developing ethical AI, or addressing global challenges like energy sustainability, access to education, and future pandemics, their work embodies the spirit of service and justice that Dr. King championed.
I was also honored to be the Distinguished Faculty Speaker at the 2023 NYU College of Arts and Science Commencement, and took the opportunity in my address–to an audience of 7,000 graduates and their families–to emphasize the importance of AI in their futures. Carrying forward Dr. King’s legacy is a privilege. I remain committed to equipping the next generation with AI and computer science skills, and I dedicate this honor to my students, fellow Americans, fellow Moroccans, colleagues, and mentors.
How artificial intelligence will redefine the role of a university professor
My theory is that once they are familiar with AI tools, a professor who embraces AI might perform both teaching and research in a much more effective and efficient way. For example, AI can be used as an online tutor to help students quickly and accurately get information and further explanations. Where human judgment and creativity will remain active and essential is in the process of learning that AI cannot replicate, or may not do so in a perfect way. Professors will have to redesign their pedagogical approaches and focus on the design of assignments and projects that emphasize analytical thinking, critical thinking, design thinking, creativity, innovation, and problem solving skills. Further, professors will now have to focus more on mentorship and providing guidance to students in their academic careers and personal development.
I also believe that professors from different disciplines, not just from computer science, should now be in a continuous learning and collaboration mode around AI. By collaborating with AI experts, and creating and working on projects that are interdisciplinary, they will understand how AI is impacting their field and how it can be used to advance the work they do and mitigate the risks it might pose.
What I’d do for work if I couldn’t work in academics
I’d either be a chef, following in the footsteps of my former George Washington University colleague José Andrés, the renowned chef who also established World Central Kitchen, or a soccer player, inspired by Pelé or Achraf Hakimi. As a chef, I’d perfect the art of Moroccan tagine, layering flavors like I layer ideas in a lecture. As a player, I’d bring the same passion and discipline to the field that I bring to my students. Whether through food, football, or teaching, my mission would remain the same: bringing people together—always with a refreshing glass of Tangier’s Moroccan mint tea. In my free time, I often find myself on the soccer field or experimenting with a new recipe.
Teaching is not just about sharing knowledge—it’s about inspiring students to think critically, creatively, and ethically