Associate Professor Jonathan Shock

Research Interests

My research covers Machine Learning, Physics, Neuroscience and Mathematics Education. On the machine learning side, I am interested in how multiple, artificial agents can learn to coordinate in complex environments, as well as studying the role of affect in artificial agents who need to balance competing needs. I also use machine learning methods to study the brain age trajectory.

On the physics side, I undertake research in theoretical particle physics, as well as tracking algorithms for fluid dynamics.

On the mathematics education side, I undertake research in understanding how to overcome the gap between high school and university level mathematics.

I also serve as the director of UCT's new AI Initiative, where the vision is a world where everybody benefits equitably from the transformative power of AI. The initiative's mission is to provide an inspiring ecosystem for researchers and students to do excellent AI research, creating tools and opportunities to support the transition to a just society.

Research Areas

Cognitive and Behavioural Neuroscience • Neuroimaging • Computational Neuroscience