Meet new faculty member Ali Abedi, who will focus on Systems and Networking

New Computer Sciences professor Ali Abedi focuses on Wireless networks, cyber-physical systems, privacy and security, Internet of Things (IoT), and battery-free wireless networks. He comes to UW–Madison from the University of California-Berkeley and earned his PhD at the University of Waterloo in Ontario. He is excited to work toward a pilot’s license in his free time and to soar through the skies over Madison! 

Educational/professional background:

Postdocs: University of California, Berkeley; Stanford University; University of Waterloo
PhD: University of Waterloo
MSc: University of Calgary
BSc: Sharif University of Technology

How did you get into your field of research? 

I fell in love with the field of computer networks, particularly wireless networks, when I took the computer networks course as an undergraduate student. Since then, I have pursued my passion throughout my graduate studies and postdoctoral research.

What are your areas of focus?

Wireless networks, cyber-physical systems, privacy and security, Internet of Things (IoT), and battery-free wireless networks.

What main issue do you address or problem do you seek to solve in your work?

A pervasive theme that threads through all of my research initiatives centers on harnessing “signals of opportunity.” This concept revolves around repurposing existing wireless signals for applications that extend beyond their original design intent. This diverges from conventional wireless systems that function within isolated silos, not interacting or caring about other systems. I have explored the vast potential of these ubiquitous signals to enable novel applications. Notable among these pursuits is the development of battery-free networking for IoT devices using existing unmodified Wi-Fi signals and the automatic calibration of distributed radios using signals transmitted by airplanes and satellites. Furthermore, I have delved into the privacy and security consequences of signals of opportunity if exploited by adversaries.A quote attributed to Ali Abedi reads, “My research ... centers on harnessing ‘signals of opportunity’ ... existing wireless signals [that can be repurposed] for applications ... beyond their original design.”

Tell us about something you’re working on in layperson’s terms:

Radio astronomy, the study of the universe through radio waves, is under threat from interference caused by the growing number of satellites in low Earth orbit. The rapid increase in small satellite launches (1-10 kg) will worsen this problem in the next decade. These small satellites use various wireless communication technologies, often operating on frequencies close to those reserved for radio astronomy. This proximity can cause signal bleed, disrupting radio astronomy observations. To address this, we propose using large satellite constellations like Starlink to provide fast wireless connectivity to small satellites, reducing interference and enabling the growth of satellite-based services.

What’s one thing you hope students who take a class with you will come away with? 

If students have a hidden talent or interest in wireless networking, this is their chance to discover and explore it.

What attracted you to UW-Madison?

I am thrilled about the prospect of joining the faculty at UW–Madison, a top university situated in a vibrant city – a truly unique and exceptional combination. This opportunity aligns perfectly with my academic and professional aspirations.

What are you looking forward to doing or experiencing in Madison? 

Outside of work, I’m eager to explore my passion for aviation and earn my pilot’s license, and Madison provides the perfect setting for this adventure. With its top-notch aviation resources and beautiful flying scenery, I’m looking forward to spending my free time soaring through the skies and enjoying all that Madison has to offer.

How does your work relate to the Wisconsin Idea?

My research embodies the Wisconsin Idea by striving to positively impact the lives of individuals in Wisconsin, the nation, and the world. Through innovative projects like batteryless sensors for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, such as smart homes and smart farming, I aim to enhance daily life and address complex problems. For instance, my work on extremely low-power wireless sensors that harness environmental energy and transmit data to nearby Wi-Fi devices has the potential to revolutionize IoT solutions, making them more sustainable and accessible. Additionally, my research on privacy vulnerabilities in wireless signals has led to the development of solutions that prevent personal information inference, thereby protecting individuals’ privacy. By tackling real-world challenges and creating tangible solutions, my research aligns with the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s core mission and commitment to the Wisconsin Idea.