AI Gaming Research: A PhD Journey
AI gaming research is opening a new lane for computer science graduates who want to blend large language models with interactive worlds. Kylee Weener, PhD student and graduate research assistant at the University of Central Florida, joins Alan Shimel to trace the journey from high school Techstrong intern to full time researcher.
About Kylee Weener
Kylee earned her undergraduate and master’s degrees in computer science at UCF and now begins the post master’s PhD track. Consequently, she brings both hands on studio experience and applied research chops.
Inside AI gaming research
Undergraduates rarely see a real research pipeline until late in their program. As a result, Kylee found her direction through an AI for Game Programming course and a teaching assistant role in Dr. Johnathan Mell’s ScionAL Lab. Meanwhile, her first project explored how AI agents can learn risk and reward through natural conversation with humans.
In addition, the lab pulled her into deeper AI gaming research spanning non player character behavior, large language model prompting and human agent collaboration. Therefore, her PhD roadmap points toward industrial R and D at a game focused studio.
Why this matters now
Meanwhile, generative AI is reshaping the entry level job market for creative and technical roles. Consequently, students who lock in research experience early gain optionality that a volatile hiring cycle cannot erase.
Explore more artificial intelligence coverage and the latest Techstrong TV interviews. Furthermore, Kylee previews her plans to publish, finish the qualifying review and target game industry research and development after graduation.
For more information please visit ucf.edu
