William Howard-Snyder

I’m William, a first-year PhD student in Computer Science at Princeton University. My academic interests include machine learning, algorithm design, probabilistic modeling, and how to apply tools from these areas to gain a better understanding of biologicial processes.

In 2024, I completed my Master’s at the University of Washington, where I worked in the Matsen Lab on improving uncertainty estimation for phylogenetic inference in large viral datasets. During my undergraduate years, I earned a BS in Computer Science and a BA in Philosophy (both in 2022), where I explored topics ranging from algorithms to normative ethics. My undergraduate thesis was supervised by Prof. Sheng Wang, and I also worked with Erick Matsen for two wonderful research internships at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

Outside of research, I enjoy playing board games with friends, spending time with my wife, and practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.