Summer 2024

Ethics in AI Discussion Forum

May 14, 2024
9 AM to 5 PM
G9.102

Artificial Intelligence is now integrated into all aspects of our work & bringing about huge transformations in every field of endeavor.  AI is rapidly evolving, yet the guardrails and guidelines regarding the ethical applications and use of AI have not been defined. This uncertainty is a growing concern in our community as well as for our patients. There is an urgent need for discussions that parallel the technological innovation and focus on responsibility & accountability of applying AI. This workshop is designed to explore current scenarios of ethical issues facing those who use AI algorithms across diverse arenas including clinical care, medical education, research, and human resources.  We aim to bring together participants across UT Southwestern for a robust conversation about the ethics of AI design, its responsible usage, and integration.  This day-long event is an interactive forum on ethical issues led by the course directors and guided by some of the current literature on this topic. Participants will be provided with selected publications on ethical issues, which will be used as a springboard for facilitated plenary discussions. To keep the thought exchanges cohesive, we will limit participation to 24.

Outcomes (after the workshop, participants will have...)

  • Overall understanding of the dynamic AI landscape

  • Working knowledge of ethical requirements for AI design and use

  • A network of colleagues on campus who are engaged in planning a future with responsible and accountable AI.

The discussions covered in this workshop will ultimately coalesce into tangible goals towards ethical AI that can be communicated with UTSW leadership. The panel will also endeavor to publish this discussion via a white paper or a short report.

Course facilitators & Discussion Panel
Thomas Dalton, (Associate Professor, Internal Medicine - Geriatrics)
Gaudenz Danuser, (Professor & Chair, Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics)
Elizabeth Heitman, (Professor, Program in Ethics in Science and Medicine)
Prapti Mody, (Program Manager, Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics)
Satwik Rajaram, (Assistant Professor, Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics)
Robert Toto. (Professor, Internal Medicine - Nephrology)

Introduction to Linux

June 10 and 12, 2024
9 AM to 5 PM
G9.102

Linux is a robust and versatile operating system favored by programmers and system administrators. Known for its stability and adaptability, it powers devices ranging from smartphones to supercomputers. Linux is particularly popular in academic and scientific fields due to its customizability and extensive suite of integrated tools. This two-day workshop welcomes beginners interested in learning Linux. It will introduce fundamental concepts to get you started on your Linux journey.

Key Topics:

  • Linux philosophy and design principles

  • System navigation and startup

  • System configuration tools

  • Commonly used Linux applications

  • Command line operations and file management

  • Text editing and manipulation

  • User environment customization

  • Introduction to Bash shell scripting

  • Local security concepts

Hands-on Sessions:

  • Navigating the Shell: Master file/directory navigation and core shell commands.

  • File Manipulation: Become proficient in creating, moving, copying, and removing files and directories.

  • Pipes & Filters: Harness the power of combining commands for streamlined data processing.

  • Loops: Automate repetitive tasks for improved efficiency.

  • Scripting: Discover the potential of shell scripts to extend your Linux capabilities.

Prerequisites: Basic computer literacy. No prior Linux experience is required.

This workshop lays the groundwork for anyone new to Linux. Those working in research, scientific computing, or computationally demanding fields will particularly benefit from its HPC emphasis.

Academic credit (1 hour) is available.
Grad Students use course number BME 5096-02 Special Topics in Bioinformatics - Introduction to Linux
PostDocs use course number PDRT 5095-01 Special Topics in Bioinformatics - Introduction to Linux