In the heart of Atlanta, a hotbed of innovation is revolutionizing the way we tackle complex technology conundrums. At the forefront of this movement is Emory University, a hub of creative problem-solving where brilliant minds are crafting real-world solutions that transform lives. From the intricacies of data analytics to the boundless potential of artificial intelligence, the brightest minds are converging to tackle the most pressing challenges of our time. In this vibrant ecosystem, the boundaries of what is possible are being rewritten, and the results are nothing short of extraordinary. In this article, we’ll explore the remarkable work being done at Emory University, where innovation meets implementation, and the impact it’s having on our collective future.
The Researcher’s Profile: Vishwanath Seshagiri
Before attending Emory, Seshagiri obtained his bachelor’s degree in engineering from the College of Engineering, Guindy in Chennai, India. His educational background and experiences led him to develop his research thesis “The Whole Nine-Nine Yard: Observability for the Observers,” which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to bridge the gap between those who collect logs — records of events that occur within a system, application or network — and those who create logs.
“With my thesis, we have effectively built a ‘ChatGPT for Log Search’ that can take logs from various sources and provide them to developers. By reducing the time spent searching logs, my work would reduce developers’ debugging time, making them more productive,” says Seshagiri.
Background and Education
Seshagiri holds a PhD in computer science and informatics from Laney Graduate School, which he will receive this spring. He credits the support of Laney’s Office of Student Affairs, particularly Assistant Dean Jennifer Cason, for helping him navigate the challenges of graduate school and balance multiple responsibilities.
“The workload was more than I expected,” says Seshagiri. “However, Dean Cason’s advice on managing various commitments was really helpful, and I’ll continue to apply it in my life after graduating.”
Research Focus: Bridging the Gap between Log Collectors and Creators
Seshagiri’s research focuses on bridging the gap between log collectors and creators, using AI to reduce debugging time and increase developer productivity. His work acts like a smart assistant, instantly pulling relevant logs from multiple sources and translating them into something understandable and actionable.
As he prepares to take the next step in his career, Seshagiri carries with him not just knowledge and technical skills, but also the curiosity and vision that define a true innovator.
The Research Thesis: “The Whole Nine-Nine Yard”
Seshagiri’s research thesis “The Whole Nine-Nine Yard: Observability for the Observers” uses AI to bridge the gap between log collectors and creators. His work has effectively built a ‘ChatGPT for Log Search’ that can take logs from various sources and provide them to developers.
Using AI to Reduce Debugging Time and Increase Developer Productivity
By reducing the time spent searching logs, Seshagiri’s work would reduce developers’ debugging time, making them more productive. His research will assist developers who spend time and resources troubleshooting everyday issues — like why a video isn’t playing properly for users in a specific region.
The root cause might be buried in a massive, disorganized sea of system logs generated across thousands of servers. Seshagiri’s work acts like a smart assistant, instantly pulling relevant logs from multiple sources and translating them into something understandable and actionable.
Implications of the Research
Real-World Applications: Log Analysis and Beyond
Seshagiri’s research has real-world applications in log analysis and beyond. His work can be applied to various industries, including healthcare, finance, and e-commerce, where logs play a crucial role in understanding system performance and troubleshooting issues.
As Seshagiri prepares to join Meta as a research scientist, his work will continue to have a significant impact on the technology industry. His research has the potential to revolutionize the way developers approach log analysis, making it more efficient and effective.
Innovating Real-World Solutions for Intricate Technology Problems
Emory University is home to a plethora of innovative research initiatives, and no one is shaking up the world of research quite like our faculty leaders. You hear it in everything they do — from publications to community presence, they’re guiding a new generation of question-askers and researching to find their own answers along the way.
Class of 2025 graduate Vishwanath Seshagiri will receive his PhD in computer science and informatics from Laney Graduate School this spring. Before attending Emory, Seshagiri obtained his bachelor’s degree in engineering from the College of Engineering, Guindy in Chennai, India.
Troubleshooting Everyday Issues in Video Streaming and More
Seshagiri’s research focuses on building a ‘ChatGPT for Log Search’ that can take logs from various sources and provide them to developers. By reducing the time spent searching logs, his work would reduce developers’ debugging time, making them more productive.
His research will assist developers who spend time and resources troubleshooting everyday issues — like why a video isn’t playing properly for users in a specific region. The root cause might be buried in a massive, disorganized sea of system logs generated across thousands of servers.
Potential Applications in Finance and Cybersecurity
Seshagiri’s work has potential applications in finance and cybersecurity. For instance, using public financial transaction data to detect patterns of money laundering has gained serious traction: the concept has spread widely enough that the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) launched an entire research initiative based on that very approach.
Industry Recognition: Meta and the Linux Kernel
After graduation, Seshagiri will join Meta as a research scientist focused on advancing the Linux kernel, the foundational layer of the Linux operating system that manages hardware, memory and system resources.
Seshagiri’s Role as a Research Scientist at Meta
Seshagiri’s work at Meta will involve advancing the Linux operating system, which is used by millions of devices worldwide. The Linux kernel is a crucial component of the operating system, and Seshagiri’s research will focus on improving its performance and security.
Advancing the Linux Operating System
The Linux kernel is a constantly evolving piece of software, and Seshagiri’s research will focus on identifying and addressing the most pressing issues facing the kernel. This includes improving its performance, security, and scalability, as well as developing new features and functionality.
Academic and Personal Achievements
Leadership and Support: Laney Graduate Student Council and Office of Student Affairs
Seshagiri served as vice president of the Laney Graduate Student Council for three years. He credits the support of Laney’s Office of Student Affairs — particularly Assistant Dean Jennifer Cason — for helping him navigate the challenges of graduate school and balance multiple responsibilities.
“The workload was more than I expected,” says Seshagiri. “However, Dean Cason’s advice on managing various commitments was really helpful, and I’ll continue to apply it in my life after graduating.”
Faculty Praise: A Brilliant Researcher and Innovator
Seshagiri’s work ethic and impact have not gone unnoticed, particularly by his PhD advisors Avani Wildani, assistant professor of math and computer science, and Andreas Zufle, associate professor of computer science.
“Vishwanath has demonstrated himself as a brilliant researcher who knows how to develop cutting-edge research ideas and inspire a broad, diverse community of collaborators to pursue his vision with him. He has a great pulse on the field and knows when to take advice and when to push back to defend his ideas,” says Wildani.
Seshagiri has a reputation for identifying forward-thinking research paths and bold, transformative ideas well before they hit the mainstream. One such idea — using public financial transaction data to detect patterns of money laundering — has gained serious traction: the concept has spread widely enough that the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) launched an entire research initiative based on that very approach.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the innovative solutions being developed at Emory University in Atlanta, GA, we are reminded of the profound impact that technology can have on our daily lives. From addressing complex healthcare challenges to advancing artificial intelligence and machine learning, the university’s research and development initiatives are pushing the boundaries of what is possible. The significance of these efforts cannot be overstated, as they have the potential to transform industries, improve lives, and drive progress.
As we look to the future, it is clear that the intersection of technology and innovation will continue to play an increasingly important role in shaping our collective destiny. The next generation of leaders and researchers will be tasked with building upon the foundations laid by institutions like Emory University, and it is up to us to provide them with the tools, resources, and support needed to tackle the complex problems that lie ahead. As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize collaboration, creativity, and a commitment to using technology as a force for good.
Ultimately, the work being done at Emory University serves as a powerful reminder that the most pressing problems of our time can be solved through human ingenuity, creativity, and a willingness to take risks. As we strive to create a brighter, more sustainable future, let us draw inspiration from the innovators and researchers who are leading the way, and let us recognize that the solutions to the complex problems that we face will always be found at the intersection of technology, innovation, and a boundless human spirit.