David A. McAllester of the American Association of Artificial Intelligence since 1997. He has authored over 100 refereed publications. McAllester's research areas include machine learning theory, the theory of programming languages, automated reasoning, AI planning, computer game playing (computer chess), and computational linguistics. A 1991 paper on AI planning proved to be one of the most influential papers of the decade in that area. A 1993 paper on computer game algorithms influenced the design of the algorithms used in the Deep Blue system that defeated Garry Kasparov. A 1998 paper on machine learning theory introduced PAC-Bayesian theorems which combine Bayesian and non-Bayesian methods.
Reversi game has been particularly attractive to programmers. Therefore, the best Othello computer programs have easily defeated the best humans since 1980, when the program "The Moor" beat the reigning world champion. In 1997, Logistello defeated the human champion Takeshi Murakami with a score of 6–0. Analysts have estimated the number of legal positions in Othello is at most 10, and it has a game-tree complexity of approximately 10. Mathematically, Othello still remains unsolved. Experts have not absolutely resolved what the outcome of a game will be where both sides use perfect play. However, analysis of thousands of high quality games