Research project · 2023–2024
Measuring change
from space.
Nighttime lights and vegetation indices as evidence of change. A closer look at what a measurement can tell us—and what it leaves uncertain.
- Remote sensing
- VIIRS data
- Measurement
Columbia University / New York
Hello, I’m
Yuanzhe
(Ethan) Yang.
I’m a Columbia student interested in reliable machine learning, thoughtful evaluation, and software that people can use.
Computer Science & Mathematics Statistics minor
01 / Selected work
Research & software.
02 / Publication & experience
Work to build on.
Conference paper · 2024 · Coauthor
Intelligent vehicle classification system based on deep learning and multisensor fusion
Fifth International Conference on Computer Vision and Data Mining (ICCVDM 2024)
A collaborative study of vehicle classification using deep learning and multisensor fusion.
Coursework2025
C networking & course-server work
C networking, memory tracing, and course-server work, with attention to how implementation choices affect reliability.
Research project2024–2025
Demand & energy forecasting
Forecasting and modeling explorations focused on what can be inferred from incomplete data and how uncertainty affects interpretation.
Research project2023–2024
Measuring change with satellite observations
Work with nighttime lights and vegetation indices as evidence of change, examining the gap between a measured signal and the conditions it represents.
03 / NOTES & IDEAS
Thinking out loud.
6 min read
How I read a paper when I want the idea to last
A practical reading method built around claims, evidence, and transfer—not exhaustive summaries.
Read essay5 min read
A benchmark score is the start of a question, not the end
Questions to ask when a single benchmark number stands in for a much larger evaluation story.
Read essay4 min read
What nighttime lights can—and cannot—tell us
Lessons from working with VIIRS nighttime lights: proxies are powerful when their limits remain visible.
Read essayGet in touch
Let’s talk about the work.
For research conversations, project questions, or professional opportunities.