I'm currently a PhD candidate in the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science at the University of Waterloo, Canada, working under the supervision of Professor Nancy Day. I am also member of the Waterloo Formal Methods (WatForm) research group. NOTE: I am planning to complete my doctorate degree in early 2011, so I am currently looking for exciting opportunities.
Thesis title: "Detection of Feature Interactions for Automotive Embedded Systems". This work characterizes and detects unsafe situations, called feature interactions, that arise when embedded components of a car, which control the dynamics of the vehicle, cause undesired or unexpected system behavior. For example, simultaneous requests of sharp steering and throttle can cause the vehicle to roll over. This work develops techniques and tools to find all potential feature interactions at design time.
I finished my Master's Degree in the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science at the University of Waterloo , Canada, with the topic "Verification of DFC Call Protocol Correctness Criteria". I received my B.Sc. in the Faculty of Computer Science at the University of Puebla, Mexico.
Research Interests
I'm interested in software engineering, particularly the use of formal methods during the model-driven development process for automating analysis and verification of critical software-intensive systems (e.g., systems embedded in automobiles, planes, medical devices, etc.).
Other interests: model-driven development in general, specification, verification, and testing, as well as system safety analysis and static analysis of systems.
Collaborations and Awards
During my PhD, I participated in a research collaboration with General Motors Canada and Critical Systems Labs, who co-sponsored an NSERC Industrial Postgraduate Scholarship (IPS) that I held during 2007 and 2008. In August 2008, the International System Safety Society selected the our collaborating Waterloo/GM (University of Waterloo and General Motors) Team as the recipient of the Scientific Research and Development of the Year Award for the work of identification and description of feature interactions as a significant source of safety risk in complex software-intensive systems. The award is presented annually to an individual or group who has made contributions to the advancement of System Safety through research and development or special initiative programs.
I also held a Cheriton Scholarship from the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science during May 2007 and April 2009, which are reserved for the School’s very top graduate students. In April 2008, Google selected me as a finalist in the Canada Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded based on the strength of candidates’ academic background and demonstrated leadership. Through the scholarship, Google hopes to encourage women to excel in computing and technology and become active role models and leaders.
Contact Information
- Campus Address:
Cheriton School of Computer Science,
200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1
Canada
- Office: DC 2551D
- Phone: (519) 888 4567 ext. 37867
- Email: aljuarez AT cs.uwaterloo.ca
Curriculum Vitae and Resume
A PDF version of my curriculum vitae and of my resume (Revised September 25, 2010).