Zhongkai Wen — Faculty ; Assistant Teaching Professor, Computer Science ; Department of Computer Science , College of Science & Engineering ; Areas of Expertise: AI and AI for Sciences | Multi-Agent Systems | Verifiable TCP/IP | Optimization | Financial Modeling | Risk Management .

Zhongkai Wen is a Teaching Professor in the Computer Science and AI program at Seattle University. He holds a PhD in Computer Science and has built a career at the intersection of cutting-edge research, real-world industry application, and a deep commitment to teaching.

Research

Zhongkai's research spans several frontiers of artificial intelligence and computer science. He has conducted significant work on multi-agent systems, exploring how autonomous agents can collaborate, coordinate, and solve complex problems together. He has also developed methods to verify TCP/IP protocols through statistical and machine learning-based approaches—work that contributes to making the foundational infrastructure of the internet more reliable and secure. Additionally, his research in AI for science focuses on leveraging intelligent systems to accelerate scientific discovery and deepen our understanding of complex phenomena.

Industry Experience

Beyond academia, Zhongkai spent several years in the financial industry, where he applied his expertise to real-world challenges in risk management, decision-making, and large-scale data systems. This experience gave him a unique perspective on how theoretical advances in AI and computer science translate into practical, responsible, and high-impact solutions.

Teaching

As a Teaching Professor, Zhongkai is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of computer scientists. He has taught a range of undergraduate courses, including Big Data Analytics, Programming Languages, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, and Software Design. His teaching philosophy is rooted in making complex ideas accessible, connecting theory to practice, and empowering students to become not just skilled technologists, but thoughtful and ethical builders.

Looking Forward

Zhongkai is eager to continue mentoring students, advancing research, and contributing to the evolving fields of computer science and AI. He believes that the best learning happens in community—and he is committed to creating a classroom where every student feels welcomed, supported, and inspired to create.