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Dan Zimmerman, a doctoral student studying computer science at Florida Atlantic’s College of Engineering and Computer Science, was recently awarded the highly competitive Department of Defense Science, Mathematics and Research for Transformation (SMART) scholarship.

As one of the nation’s most prestigious honors that helps fund doctoral research, it also guarantees post-graduation employment at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Panama City.

“I’m truly honored to be selected for the Department of Defense SMART Scholarship,” Zimmerman said. “This opportunity not only validates my commitment to advancing trusted AI and autonomous systems but also gives me a clear path to apply my work in service of the nation.”

As a lifelong advocate for ocean preservation, he said he also dedicates his spare time to volunteering for the Roy Roger’s Family Parks and Wahoo Bay, Pompano Beach, Fla. His responsibilities include helping create a citizen-science research initiative centered on environmental protection and education, he said.

Zimmerman has also collaborated with George Sklivanitis , Ph.D, associate research professor, College of Engineering and Computer Science, and fellow, Institute for Sensing and Embedded Network Systems Engineering. “Having collaborated with Dan across numerous projects over the years, this recognition is both well-earned and well-timed,” Sklivanitis said. “Dan brings a rare combination of technical expertise, mission-driven focus and a deep sense of purpose to everything he does. I’m proud to have played a role in his journey and am excited to see the meaningful contributions he will make to the Department of Defense and to national innovation.”

Read the press release.