Accolades: Computer Scientist’s AI Traffic Solution Earns Award

A University of Texas at Dallas researcher’s pioneering artificial intelligence (AI) technology to reduce traffic delays and emissions, developed in collaboration with the city of Richardson was named a Smart 20 Award winner and one of the top three projects at the 2025 Smart Cities Connect Spring Conference and Expo.

The Smart 20 Awards, presented at a March conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, recognized innovative and influential global smart cities projects.

Dr. Rym Zalila-Wenkstern, a professor of computer science in the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science and director of the Smart Cities Applied Research Lab, and her team developed the patented DALI (Distributed, Agent-based traffic LIghts) Nexus, which transforms traffic signals into a collaborative network.

Unlike traditional systems that rely on static timing plans, DALI Nexus uses artificial intelligence software “agents” to monitor real-time activity at intersections, exchange data across the network and optimize signal timing dynamically.

DALI Nexus also provides real-time traffic insights and safety alerts to road users, including drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, through a mobile app. The app provides customized information, such as signal timing, recommended crossing speeds and safety alerts tailored to the user’s mode of travel. The app, for example, can communicate that a pedestrian needs to cross to inform signal timing decisions.

In a pilot project deployed at 15 intersections, the system reduced traffic delays by an average of 40% at fixed-timing intersections, which use preset intervals. DALI Nexus reduced traffic delays at intersections using coordinated, or synchronized, timing by 25% to 30%.

The UT Dallas research team has worked closely with the city’s Transportation and Mobility Department to integrate the DALI technology with the city’s existing infrastructure.

“I am deeply grateful to the City of Richardson’s leadership, both past and present, for their vision and support of innovation,” Zalila-Wenkstern said. “I especially want to thank the community for championing forward-thinking initiatives and believing in the importance of engaging researchers to help shape the future.”

The proposed next phase would expand DALI Nexus to 50 signals throughout the city.

“The benefits we’ve seen from the integration of this software are next level for our transportation system, and we are witnessing the future of traffic management here in Richardson,” City Manager Don Magner BA’96 said. “We are excited about continuing this partnership with UT Dallas and seeing the extent of its benefits to congestion and safety.”

New Psychology Graduate Named Outstanding Undergrad Student

Recent dual major graduate William Pickrell BS’25 was named the recipient of The University of Texas at Dallas 2025 Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award in May by the Office of Undergraduate Education.

Pickrell, who earned his degree in both psychology and child learning and development and was a Collegium V Honors student in the Hobson Wildenthal Honors College, plans to become a licensed professional counselor for children and teens. He said he was surprised and gratified by the award.

“It’s really cool to go out with a bang,” he said.

Pickrell worked for two years as a First-Year Leader, helping students new to college adjust to university life. He also served as a National Merit Ambassador, helping other National Merit Scholars learn about UT Dallas. As an undergraduate research assistant in the Family Research Lab, he worked on research for adolescent disclosure behaviors and mealtime co-parenting. He was also an undergraduate teaching assistant for both Abnormal Psychology and Child Development courses.

“Billy is one of those rare people that pairs boundless curiosity, endless energy and exceptional intellect with a genuine desire to impact the world around him for the better,” said Dr. Adam J. Woods, dean of the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences (BBS) and the Aage and Margareta Møller Distinguished Professor in Behavioral and Brain Sciences.

“He serves as a sterling example of our BBS students. I have no doubt that Billy will continue to make the BBS and UTD community incredibly proud as he embarks on his next chapter and beyond.”

It was UTD’s psychology program — especially its research focus and its emphasis on clinical areas — that attracted Pickrell to the University.

And once he became a Comet, he quickly grew to appreciate the UTD faculty.

“I can’t think of a single negative faculty interaction I’ve had, especially within BBS,” he said. “Everyone has been so kind and so caring, and you can tell that they genuinely want us to succeed. The faculty members truly enjoy teaching. They enjoy building up the next generation of researchers or practitioners.”

Pickrell said a positive encounter with a mental health practitioner in middle school helped direct his educational path.

“I found the experiences I had with my school counselor to be very meaningful,” he said. “I wanted to be that person for other people. I wanted to make sure that kids have the support they need.”

Intrigued by the subject of mental health, he took Advanced Placement psychology in high school and enjoyed the class.

“It’s so fascinating how the brain works and why people do what they do. That’s what really motivated me to major in psychology in college,” he said. “And I’ve absolutely loved it here. Being at UT Dallas only reinforced my career decisions. Going down this path is going to be amazing. I think I’m going to love what I do.”

Pickrell plans to attend Wright State University to pursue a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling.

Accolades is an occasional News Center feature that highlights recent accomplishments of The University of Texas at Dallas faculty, students and staff. To submit items for consideration, contact your school’s communications manager.