Summer Research: Nolan Eichorn ’26 Trains a Machine Learning Model
Eichorn, a mathematics major, is participating in the National Science Foundation’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program at the University of Florida.
Thursday, June 26, 2025 11:24 AM
Nolan Eichorn ’26
More than 70 Muhlenberg students are conducting research this summer — about 60 on campus, about 10 more remotely, and a handful of others through other institutions.
Research challenges students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom, hone their discipline-specific skills, and make an impact in their field. Learn more about Muhlenberg’s transformative summer research program.
Nolan Eichorn ’26
Hometown: Warminster, Pennsylvania
Major: Mathematics (pre-dental)
Project Overview
Describe your summer research. Nolan Eichorn is diving deep into the world of machine learning to test evolutionary hypotheses on butterflies. His project involves modifying an existing AI model to classify butterfly species and subspecies. By utilizing images sourced from a natural history museum, he is training the model to recognize various butterflies. The aim? To convert qualitative data—previously interpretative for biologists—into quantifiable data that can enhance the classification system within the field of entomology.
Passion for Research
Why are you interested in research generally and in this project, through the University of Florida REU, specifically? Research offers a unique platform to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. Eichorn expressed a particular enthusiasm for this project because it provided a chance to learn the intricacies of artificial intelligence and its broader implications. He had applied to a diverse range of REU programs—from number theory to disease control—hoping to find a fit that would push his boundaries. Upon acceptance into the University of Florida’s program, he felt a surge of excitement, especially because the project was new and would enable him to explore an unfamiliar but fascinating field.
“When I got an acceptance to the University of Florida’s program, I was ecstatic! It was one of the only programs that I had very little experience in, but it was one I was very hopeful to get into, so I could have the opportunity to learn something new that really interested me.”
Challenges and Rewards
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of your research? The path to mastering machine learning comes with its hurdles. Eichorn finds that one of the most challenging aspects is understanding the underlying code of the AI model. Errors, unexpected results, and complex algorithms make troubleshooting a daunting task. Yet, the thrill of overcoming these obstacles brings immense satisfaction. Each time he corrects a mistake or achieves an anticipated output, he feels a sense of accomplishment, fueling his desire to delve even deeper into the complexities of machine learning.
“The satisfaction achieved once I fix the error or get an output that I expected is incredibly rewarding. Although learning how these models are built is very difficult due to their complexity, it feels good to add new parts and push the model to be better to allow it to train and learn more efficiently.”
Looking Ahead
How is this experience shaping your understanding of what you want to do in the future? While Eichorn’s aim has been firmly set on dental school post-graduation, this research experience has opened a new lens for his future ambitions. He envisions integrating machine learning into dentistry, especially as it relates to anatomical studies, such as analyzing mandibles. Recognizing that artificial intelligence is poised to play a significant role in medicine, Eichorn sees the potential for combining his interests in mathematics and healthcare to create more efficient solutions for both patients and practitioners.
“It seems that AI is the future of our world, and being able to understand it and apply it in medicine could be advantageous to me. I hope to be able to use this in dental school and beyond.”
In addition to his research, Eichorn is also active on campus as the president of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity, and has held roles as the past president of intramural soccer and the Pre-Dental Club. He has previously conducted research in mathematics and chemistry at Muhlenberg.