“If there are uncertainties in a map, maybe from a drone flying over to get some images that have inaccuracies, they still need to know where the obstacles are,” Tau said. “My work is in figuring out the relationship between how uncertain we are and how much does that increase the cost or distance to reach the [destination].”
Sponsored by the Army’s Combat Capabilities Development Command Ground Vehicle Systems Center, his research has largely been focused on beefing up the existing NATO Reference Mobility Model, an algorithm which has been used by the U.S. military and other NATO allies since the 1970s to inform critical path-planning decisions in maneuvers and missions.
“Accounting for uncertainty and vehicle automation wasn’t a factor before because it didn’t exist in the '70s, but now there is a push to add more information like that,” Tau said.
As the recipient of a SMART scholarship, Tau has the unique opportunity to pursue impactful research while contributing to the DOD’s mission to protect the nation as a civilian. The program was created to attract and enhance the DOD workforce with talented scientists, engineers, and researchers. With financial support over their education, SMART scholars are placed in civilian positions after graduation with an express focus on applying their work to protect national security.
“The military does extremely important work, it gives us freedom and safety,” Tau said. “Being able to serve as a civilian allows me to serve my country in a real, impactful way that gives me a sense of pride.”