Vasanth Sarathy

I am a Research Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Tufts University. My research is at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing (NLP). I use techniques in neuro-symbolic machine learning (incl. LLMs and VLMs), social/cognitive sciences, and linguistics to study social reasoning and build socially-competent and safe AI.

Previously, I was a Senior Researcher of AI at Smart Information Flow Technologies (SIFT), where I worked closely with the U.S. Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community on several AI-related projects. Prior to that I was a practicing IP lawyer at the law firm of Ropes and Gray for nearly a decade. I obtained a dual-PhD in Computer Science and Cognitive Science from Tufts University, advised by Matthias Scheutz and Dan Dennett. I earned an MS in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from MIT, a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Arkansas and a J.D from Boston University School of Law.

This 2023 BU Law article summarizes my journey.

Outside of work, I spend time with my wife, three kids, and other family and friends. When I have some spare time, I draw single-panel cartoons, dabble in alcohol inks, and experiment with math art. I also play a bit of chess from time to time.