Nikolaos Freris | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Nikolaos Freris | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Nikolaos Freris, University of Science and Technology of China, China

Dr. Nikolaos M. Freris is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in computer science, robotics, and artificial intelligence. Currently serving as a professor and Vice Dean at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), he leads the AIoT Laboratory, advancing cutting-edge innovations in distributed learning and cyber-physical systems. Dr. Freris earned his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, graduating with a perfect GPA of 4.0/4.0. With extensive international experience, including positions at IBM Research, EPFL, and NYU Abu Dhabi, his work bridges theoretical advancements and practical applications in intelligent systems. A prolific speaker and educator, he has delivered numerous keynotes and distinguished lectures worldwide. His passion for innovation and knowledge-sharing solidifies his reputation as a leader in AI-driven technologies, fostering global collaborations and pioneering impactful research.

Professional Profile

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Prof. Dr. Nikolaos Freris Summary of Suitability for the Award

Nikolaos M. Freris is an exceptionally accomplished researcher and academic, making him a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His educational background is impeccable, with a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering and two master’s degrees (Mathematics and Electrical & Computer Engineering) from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, all earned with perfect GPAs. His work bridges cutting-edge domains such as systems, decision and control, communication networks, and optimization, demonstrating a deep understanding of complex interdisciplinary challenges.

Professionally, Dr. Freris has held prestigious positions at globally recognized institutions, including his current role as a professor at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), where he also serves as Vice Dean of the International College and Director of the AIoT Laboratory.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Nikolaos M. Freris holds a robust academic foundation in engineering and computer science. He received his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, specializing in systems, decision, and control, and achieving a perfect 4.0/4.0 GPA. During his doctoral studies, his groundbreaking dissertation explored optimization models for wireless networks, including clock synchronization and video streaming. He also earned dual Master’s degrees from the same university in Mathematics and Electrical and Computer Engineering. Prior to his postgraduate pursuits, he graduated summa cum laude with a Diploma in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens, where his thesis addressed innovative approaches in biomedical engineering. This exceptional academic journey underpins his expertise in robotics, AI, and distributed systems, driving his impactful research and academic contributions globally.

💼  Professional Experience

Dr. Nikolaos M. Freris boasts a dynamic career in academia and industry. Since 2019, he has been a Professor of Computer Science at USTC, where he directs the AIoT Laboratory, pioneering advances in distributed learning and robotics. He also serves as Vice Dean of the International College, fostering global academic partnerships. Previously, he was an Assistant Professor at NYU Abu Dhabi and a Global Network Assistant Professor at NYU Tandon, leading research on cyber-physical systems. His industry experience includes roles as a Senior Research Scientist at EPFL, managing Qualcomm-funded projects, and as a Postdoctoral Fellow at IBM Research Zurich. His early career featured internships at Deutsche Telekom and Xerox, where he explored innovative computational solutions. With a strong track record of leadership in interdisciplinary projects, Dr. Freris continues to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world applications.

🏅  Awards and Recognition

Dr. Nikolaos M. Freris is a recipient of numerous prestigious awards recognizing his contributions to computer science and engineering. His academic excellence is reflected in his perfect GPA achievements during his Ph.D. and Master’s studies. He has delivered keynotes at leading conferences such as the International Conference on Internet of Things and AIoT forums. His research on distributed learning, robotics, and AIoT has earned him accolades, including invited talks at institutions like Zhejiang University and international symposiums. As a leader in global academic initiatives, he was recognized for his innovative teaching and impactful research by organizations such as IEEE and CAS. Dr. Freris’s accolades underscore his commitment to advancing intelligent systems and fostering collaborations across disciplines, enhancing the global understanding of cutting-edge technologies.

🌍 Research Skills On Robotics 

Dr. Nikolaos M. Freris demonstrates exceptional research skills in robotics, distributed systems, and artificial intelligence. His expertise spans optimization theory, machine learning, and cyber-physical systems, with applications in AIoT and intelligent transportation. He specializes in communication-efficient algorithms, real-time data learning, and bio-inspired robotics, contributing to sustainable solutions for modern technological challenges. As the founder and director of AIoT and Cyberphysical Systems Labs, he leads transformative research initiatives that bridge theoretical models and real-world implementation. His methodological rigor and creative problem-solving skills are evident in his widely cited publications and pioneering keynote addresses. Dr. Freris’s ability to synthesize complex systems into actionable innovations positions him as a thought leader in emerging AI and robotics domains.

📖 Publication Top Notes

Title: Randomized extended Kaczmarz for solving least squares
  • Authors: A. Zouzias, N. M. Freris
    Journal: SIAM Journal on Matrix Analysis and Applications
    Citations: 349
    Year: 2013
Title: Fundamental limits on synchronizing clocks over networks
  • Authors: N. M. Freris, S. R. Graham, P. R. Kumar
    Journal: IEEE Transactions on Automatic Control
    Citations: 270
    Year: 2010
Title: Fundamentals of large sensor networks: Connectivity, capacity, clocks, and computation
  • Authors: N. M. Freris, H. Kowshik, P. R. Kumar
    Journal: Proceedings of the IEEE
    Citations: 151
    Year: 2010
Title: A new randomized block-coordinate primal-dual proximal algorithm for distributed optimization
  • Authors: P. Latafat, N. M. Freris, P. Patrinos
    Journal: IEEE Transactions on Automatic Control
    Citations: 89
    Year: 2019
Title: Fundamental limits on synchronization of affine clocks in networks
  • Authors: N. M. Freris, P. R. Kumar
    Conference: 2007 46th IEEE Conference on Decision and Control
    Citations: 79
    Year: 2007
Distortion-aware scalable video streaming to multinetwork clients
  • Authors: N. M. Freris, C. H. Hsu, J. P. Singh, X. Zhu
    Journal: IEEE/ACM Transactions on Networking
    Citations: 69
    Year: 2012
Fast distributed smoothing of relative measurements
  • Authors: N. M. Freris, A. Zouzias
    Conference: 2012 IEEE 51st IEEE Conference on Decision and Control (CDC)
    Citations: 64
    Year: 2012
Multiplayer Stackelberg–Nash game for nonlinear system via value iteration-based integral reinforcement learning
  • Authors: M. Li, J. Qin, N. M. Freris, D. W. C. Ho
    Journal: IEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems
    Citations: 56
    Year: 2020
A synchrophasor data-driven method for forced oscillation localization under resonance conditions
  • Authors: T. Huang, N. M. Freris, P. R. Kumar, L. Xie
    Journal: IEEE Transactions on Power Systems
    Citations: 56
    Year: 2020
A model-based approach to clock synchronization
  • Authors: N. M. Freris, V. S. Borkar, P. R. Kumar
    Conference: Proceedings of the 48th IEEE Conference on Decision and Control (CDC)
    Citations: 53
    Year: 2009

Tariq Jamil | Machine Learning Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Tariq Jamil | Machine Learning Award | Best Researcher Award

Lead multilingual education at TensorDot Solutions, Pakistan🎓

Mr. Tariq Jamil is an accomplished AI/ML engineer and data scientist with a rich background in both academia and industry. His expertise spans a wide range of AI and machine learning domains, including deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and large language models. With a career marked by successful project management, innovative AI applications, and educational contributions, Mr. Jamil has consistently demonstrated his capacity for leadership and technical excellence. His experience as a project leader in various AI challenges and his role in training the next generation of AI professionals highlight his commitment to advancing the field.

Professional Profile 

🎓Education

Mr. Tariq Jamil holds a Post-Graduate Diploma in Data Science with Artificial Intelligence from NED University of Engineering and Technology, Pakistan, completed between December 2021 and June 2023. His coursework included an in-depth study of Python, data visualization, machine learning, deep learning, and computer vision. His capstone project involved the development of a chatbot using deep learning, specifically fine-tuning the Falcon large language model for customer service applications. Prior to this, Mr. Jamil earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Aviation Electronics with a specialization in Aerospace Technology from the same institution, graduating in December 1991. His academic foundation in digital electronics, communications, and quality systems, combined with his later specialization in AI, has provided him with a strong interdisciplinary background, enabling him to excel in both the engineering and data science fields.

💼Work Experience

Mr. Tariq Jamil has amassed a diverse and impactful work experience that spans multiple domains in the fields of AI, machine learning, and data science. Since January 2021, he has been working as a freelance AI/ML Engineer and Data Scientist in Karachi, Pakistan. In this role, Mr. Jamil has successfully managed multiple customer projects on platforms like Upwork and Freelancer.com, as well as with private clients. His work has involved a comprehensive range of AI technologies, including computer vision, video action detection, deep learning, natural language processing, and large language models. Notably, he contributed to the success of a pioneering marketing startup, True Insights, and developed advanced AI models for video crime scene detection and sign language recognition. In addition to his freelance work, Mr. Jamil served as an AI Trainer at NED University in Karachi from October 2023 to March 2024. He designed and taught graduate-level courses in Artificial Intelligence, focusing on deep learning, LLMs, Python, and computer vision. His teaching played a pivotal role in shaping the university’s Post Graduate Diploma program in Generative AI and the “DS & AI” program, where he taught classes on foundational and advanced AI concepts. Furthermore, Mr. Jamil has been an active contributor to Omdena, a global AI community, since July 2023. As the Chapter Lead for the UAE division, he led several innovative AI projects, including the development of a voice-enabled chatbot for Abu Dhabi Open Data Intelligence and an AI application for liver cancer histopathology detection. His role involved coordinating teams of data scientists and overseeing the technical execution of these projects, which led to significant advancements in AI applications for healthcare and data analytics.

🔍Research Focus 

Mr. Tariq Jamil’s research focus lies at the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and their practical applications across various domains. His work encompasses deep learning, natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, and large language models (LLMs), with a particular emphasis on developing AI solutions for real-world challenges. He has applied his expertise in projects ranging from video action detection and anomaly detection to chatbot development and healthcare diagnostics, such as histopathology and cervical cytology detection.

Mr. Jamil’s research is characterized by a commitment to innovation and impact. He has led projects that harness cutting-edge AI technologies, such as Transformers, YOLO, and OpenCV, to create applications that enhance automation, accuracy, and efficiency in fields like healthcare, security, and transportation. His work in fine-tuning LLMs for specific tasks, such as customer support and legal document processing, highlights his ability to customize AI models to meet the unique needs of different industries.

🏆Awards and Honors

Mr. Tariq Jamil has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning through various awards and honors. His leadership and innovation in AI, particularly in areas such as deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, have earned him accolades from both academic and professional communities. He has been acknowledged for his exceptional project management skills, notably in AI challenges that addressed critical real-world problems like healthcare diagnostics, vehicle inspection, and road safety.

In addition to his technical achievements, Mr. Jamil’s dedication to education has been celebrated, with honors highlighting his impactful teaching and mentoring roles at NED University. His efforts in training the next generation of AI professionals and his involvement in pioneering AI projects have further solidified his reputation as a leading expert in his field. These recognitions serve as a testament to Mr. Jamil’s commitment to excellence and his significant contributions to advancing the frontiers of AI technology.

Conclusion

Based on Mr. Tariq Jamil’s extensive experience, leadership in AI innovation, and dedication to education, he is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His ability to apply AI solutions to real-world problems, coupled with his commitment to advancing AI education, makes him a valuable asset to the AI community. With continued focus on publishing and expanding his professional network, Mr. Jamil could further elevate his contributions to the field, making him a highly deserving recipient of this award.

📖Publications : 

  1. Publication: “Fluid Coupled Structural Analysis and Optimization of Expanded Polystyrene-Fiber-Reinforced Composite Wing of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle”
    • Authors: Jamil, T.; Iqbal, A.; Allauddin, U.; Saleem, S.; Ikhlaq, M.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Mechanics of Composite Materials
    • Citations: 0
  2. Publication: “Effect of Glass Powder on the Compressive Strength and Drying Shrinkage Behavior of OPC- and LC3-50-Based Cementitious Composites of Various Strengths”
    • Authors: Ayub, T.; Jamil, T.; Ayub, A.; Mehmood, E.; Sheikh, M.D.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Advances in Materials Science and Engineering
    • Citations: 0
  3. Publication: “Mechanical and Durability Properties of High-Strength Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) Concrete Containing Waste Glass Powder”
    • Authors: Ayub, A.; Ayub, T.; Jamil, T.; Khan, A.-U.-R.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Iranian Journal of Science and Technology – Transactions of Civil Engineering
    • Citations: 2
  4. Publication: “Electromechanical characterizations of PEDOT

    and its nanocomposite thin films on a cost-effective polymer substrate for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) applications”

    • Authors: Khan, S.T.; Mehdi, M.; Jamil, T.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Express Polymer Letters
    • Citations: 1
  5. Publication: “Sustainable cementitious material with ultra-high content partially calcined limestone-calcined clay”
    • Authors: Qian, X.; Ruan, Y.; Jamil, T.; Hu, S.; Liu, Y.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Construction and Building Materials
    • Citations: 13
  6. Publication: “Investigating the crumpling effect in honeycomb sandwich panels under bending loads using FEA technique”
    • Authors: Saqib, N.; Jamil, T.; Zai, B.A.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Aeronautical Journal
    • Citations: 0
  7. Publication: “HEAT-TRANSFER ENHANCEMENT OF A SOLAR PARABOLIC TROUGH COLLECTOR USING TURBULATORS AND NANOPARTICLES: A NUMERICAL STUDY”
    • Authors: Allauddin, U.; Ikhlaq, M.; Jamil, T.; Mustafa, H.; Azeem, M.H.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Journal of Enhanced Heat Transfer
    • Citations: 1
  8. Publication: “Comparative Study on LC3-50 with OPC Concrete Using Raw Materials from Pakistan”
    • Authors: Sheikh, M.D.; Jamil, T.; Ayub, T.; Bilal, S.M.; Hu, C.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Advances in Materials Science and Engineering
    • Citations: 2
  9. Publication: “Numerical simulation and validation of MWCNT-CFRP hybrid composite structure in lightweight satellite design”
    • Authors: Iqbal, S.; Jamil, T.; Murtuza Mehdi, S.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Composite Structures
    • Citations: 9
  10. Publication: “Virtual Captive Model tests for Maneuvering Prediction”
    • Authors: Khan, O.U.; Mansoor, A.; Zai, B.A.; Hussain, M.; Jamil, T.
    • Year: 2022
    • Journal: Journal of Maritime Research
    • Citations: 1