SAMEERCHAND PUDARUTH | Artificial Intelligence | Academic Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. SAMEERCHAND PUDARUTH | Artificial Intelligence | Academic Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. SAMEERCHAND PUDARUTH, University of Mauritius, Mauritius

Dr. Sameerchand Pudaruth is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Information, Communication & Digital Technologies at the University of Mauritius. With a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, his expertise spans machine learning, computational linguistics, and data science. His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to technological advancement and knowledge dissemination. Having served as Head of the ICT Department (2019โ€“2021), he played a key role in shaping academic policies and research initiatives. Dr. Pudaruth is an accomplished author and a sought-after researcher, contributing significantly to AI, distributed systems, and digital transformation. His membership in prestigious organizations such as IEEE, ACM, and IAENG highlights his standing in the global research community. Beyond academia, he is dedicated to mentoring students, fostering innovation, and driving interdisciplinary collaboration in AI. His work continues to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical AI applications, making significant strides in Mauritius and beyond.

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Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award โ€“ Associate Professor Dr. Sameerchand Pudaruth

Dr. Sameerchand Pudaruth is a distinguished academic and researcher in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and related fields, with a strong background in teaching, research, and leadership. With over two decades of experience, he has contributed significantly to the advancement of AI, distributed systems, multimedia, and computational linguistics. His PhD in Artificial Intelligence, combined with his legal studies, positions him uniquely at the intersection of AI and law, demonstrating an interdisciplinary approach to research.

His extensive publication record, including book chapters, conference proceedings, and journal articles, highlights his dedication to pushing the boundaries of AI, machine learning, and computational methodologies. His research contributions in legal text classification, intelligent systems, and IT support services optimization have real-world applications, making his work both academically rigorous and practically relevant. His leadership roles, including serving as Head of the ICT Department and holding senior positions in IEEE and ACM, reflect his commitment to advancing research and fostering collaboration in the global research community.

๐ŸŽ“ Education

Dr. Sameerchand Pudaruth holds a PhD in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Mauritius, awarded in 2020, focusing on AI-driven decision-making systems. His academic portfolio includes an MSc in Computer Science with a specialization in Distributed Systems and Multimedia (2004โ€“2006) and a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science and Engineering (First Class) from the same institution (2000โ€“2003). In addition, he pursued legal studies, earning an LLB from the University of London (2009โ€“2012) and completing the Law Practitionerโ€™s Vocational Course (2013). This diverse educational background equips him with a unique interdisciplinary perspective, blending AI, computational intelligence, and legal analytics. His continuous professional development is evident through active participation in research forums, conferences, and international collaborations. Dr. Pudaruth’s academic journey reflects a commitment to lifelong learning, innovation, and thought leadership in artificial intelligence and digital technologies.

๐Ÿ’ผ Professional Experience

Dr. Sameerchand Pudaruth has been an integral part of the University of Mauritius since 2007. Currently serving as an Associate Professor (since 2022), he previously held the positions of Senior Lecturer (2016โ€“2022) and Lecturer (2007โ€“2016). He also served as Head of the ICT Department (2019โ€“2021), where he spearheaded academic advancements and research collaborations. His career is marked by expertise in AI, machine learning, and data-driven technologies, leading various projects focused on intelligent systems. He has mentored numerous postgraduate students and contributed extensively to curriculum development. Dr. Pudaruth’s industry collaborations have reinforced his reputation as a pioneer in applied AI research. His leadership in conferences and symposiums underscores his commitment to advancing knowledge in computational sciences. As an educator, researcher, and innovator, he continuously pushes the boundaries of AI applications, influencing both academia and industry.

๐Ÿ… Awards and Recognition

Dr. Sameerchand Pudaruthโ€™s contributions to AI and computational research have earned him numerous accolades. He has been a Senior IEEE Member since 2020, recognizing his significant professional achievements. His role as a founding member and Vice-Chair of IEEE Mauritius Section (2018โ€“2021) highlights his leadership in fostering AI research communities. He has received research grants and recognition for outstanding publications in AI, machine learning, and computational linguistics. His book “Python in One Week” (2010) and multiple Springer book chapters have cemented his reputation in AI education. His work on machine learning applications in law and data science has been widely cited, further amplifying his global impact. His membership in ACM, IAENG, and the Association for Computational Linguistics reflects his standing in the international AI research community. Through groundbreaking research, academic leadership, and scholarly contributions, Dr. Pudaruth continues to be a driving force in AI innovation.

๐ŸŒ Research Skills On Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Sameerchand Pudaruth specializes in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computational linguistics. His expertise spans natural language processing, legal informatics, and AI-driven decision-making models. He has pioneered research in AI applications for law, healthcare, and distributed systems. With a deep understanding of neural networks, deep learning, and intelligent automation, he has contributed significantly to AI-driven knowledge systems. His work includes feature selection using evolutionary algorithms, predictive modeling, and sentiment analysis. He has led interdisciplinary collaborations to advance AI ethics, data privacy, and algorithmic fairness. His ability to translate complex AI concepts into real-world applications has led to impactful research publications. As a member of international AI organizations, he remains at the forefront of technological advancements, constantly exploring innovative solutions. Dr. Pudaruth’s research continues to influence academia, industry, and public policy, making AI more accessible and applicable across diverse domains.

ย ๐Ÿ“– Publication Top Notes

  1. Plant leaf recognition using shape features and colour histogram with K-nearest neighbour classifiers
    • Authors: T. Munisami, M. Ramsurn, S. Kishnah, S. Pudaruth
    • Citations: 262
    • Year: 2015
  2. People factors in agile software development and project management
    • Authors: V. Lalsing, S. Kishnah, S. Pudaruth
    • Citations: 195
    • Year: 2012
  3. Predicting the price of used cars using machine learning techniques
    • Authors: S. Pudaruth
    • Citations: 183
    • Year: 2014
  4. Automatic Recognition of Medicinal Plants using Machine Learning Techniques
    • Authors: A. Begue, V. Kowlessur, U. Singh, F. Mahomoodally, S. Pudaruth
    • Citations: 123
    • Year: 2017
  5. A review of mobile ad hoc NETwork (MANET) Protocols and their Applications
    • Authors: D. Ramphull, A. Mungur, S. Armoogum, S. Pudaruth
    • Citations: 98
    • Year: 2021
  6. Authorship attribution using stylometry and machine learning techniques
    • Authors: H. Ramnial, S. Panchoo, S. Pudaruth
    • Citations: 71
    • Year: 2016
  7. Sentiment analysis from Facebook comments using automatic coding in NVivo 11
    • Authors: S. Pudaruth, S. Moheeputh, N. Permessur, A. Chamroo
    • Citations: 53
    • Year: 2018
  8. Forgotten, excluded or included? Students with disabilities: A case study at the University of Mauritius
    • Authors: U. Singh, S. Pudaruth, R. Gunputh
    • Citations: 30
    • Year: 2017
  9. Resource allocation in 4G and 5G networks: A review
    • Authors: L.N. Degambur, A. Mungur, S. Armoogum, S. Pudaruth
    • Citations: 29
    • Year: 2021
  10. SuperFish: A Mobile Application for Fish Species Recognition using Image Processing Techniques and Deep Learning
  • Authors: P. Sameerchand, N. Nadeem, A. Chandani, K. Somveer, V. Munusami, S. Pudaruth
  • Citations: 26
  • Year: 2021

WEI-CHENG LIEN | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. WEI-CHENG LIEN | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

๐Ÿ‘คย Dr. WEI-CHENG LIEN, Hyson Technology Inc, Taiwan

Wei-Cheng Lien is the CEO and Co-Founder of HysonTech Inc., based in Taiwan, where he leads the companyโ€™s AIoT solutions for various industries. With a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from National Cheng Kung University, Lien specializes in AI, AIoT hardware/software integration, and digital transformation. He has held significant leadership roles across diverse organizations, including his work as a director for the Taiwan Artificial Intelligence Association and as an industry technology advisor for the National Applied Research Laboratories. Lienโ€™s contributions to fields such as medical diagnostics, smart traffic enforcement, and manufacturing automation have earned him recognition globally. His work has influenced both academia and industry, with numerous awards and patents to his name. He continues to innovate at the intersection of AI and IoT, driving digital transformation and leading key projects like Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Terminal 3.

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๐ŸŒŸ Research for Best Researcher Award: Wei-Cheng Lien

Suitability for the Award:

Wei-Cheng Lien is exceptionally suited for the Research for Best Researcher Award due to his remarkable achievements in both the academic and entrepreneurial realms, coupled with his extensive experience in the field of electrical engineering and artificial intelligence (AI). With a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering (EE) from National Cheng Kung University and a track record of over 50 technical papers and 9 patents, Dr. Lien has made significant contributions to various cutting-edge areas, such as AI, AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things) hardware/software integration, and digital transformation.

As the CEO of HysonTech Inc., he has been instrumental in driving innovative AIoT solutions across diverse industries, from aquaculture to medical diagnostics, emphasizing his capability to translate research into impactful real-world applications. His leadership extends beyond his company, as he holds prominent advisory roles with leading institutions like the Taiwan National Science and Technology Council and the Institute for Information Industry. His leadership in AI and technology is further demonstrated by his contributions to the Taiwan Artificial Intelligence Association and several high-profile projects such as the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Terminal 3 development.

๐ŸŽ“ Educationย 

Wei-Cheng Lien earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering (EE) from National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), Taiwan, where he achieved a remarkable GPA of 4.0. His educational journey also includes a Bachelor’s degree in EE from NCKU, where he earned a GPA of 3.4. During his academic tenure, Lien demonstrated a strong focus on Artificial Intelligence, AIoT, and digital transformation, with his research laying the groundwork for his subsequent professional achievements. Lienโ€™s time at Duke University as a visiting scholar further broadened his perspective, and his contributions to AI and electronics research gained significant recognition. His education, coupled with extensive hands-on experience in AI and hardware/software integration, has shaped him into a leader in the industry. Lienโ€™s academic excellence and innovation are the bedrock upon which his diverse professional experiences and entrepreneurial ventures are built.

๐Ÿ’ผย ย Professional Experience

Wei-Cheng Lien is the CEO and Co-Founder of HysonTech Inc., where he leads innovative AIoT solutions across sectors like aquaculture, smart traffic enforcement, and medical diagnostics. Under his leadership, HysonTech integrates AI technologies into hardware and software systems, offering complete solutions to its clients. Prior to this, Lien served as the CTO of Slash Living Culture Company, where he developed reed-based plant straws and building materials, incorporating AIoT monitoring techniques. His career also includes his role as Manager of the Intelligence System Division at AVITONE CO., LTD., where he focused on image system integration for advanced X-ray scanners. Lienโ€™s earlier experience at MediaTek Inc. as Senior Engineer and Fellow Student further honed his expertise in AI and computing technologies. His extensive professional experience spans AI integration, digital transformation, and innovative product development, driving growth and technological advancement in multiple industries.

๐Ÿ…Awards and Recognition

Wei-Cheng Lien has been honored with over 60 prestigious awards throughout his career. Notably, he was named the 2025 Outstanding Alumni of Taichung Municipal Taichung First Senior High School and received the 2024 Taiwan AI Award at the AI Taiwan x Future Commerce Exhibition. Lien’s achievements in AI and digital transformation were recognized with the 2024 Taiwan InnoTech Expoโ€™s Two Invention Medals, along with Best Paper Awards at various conferences, including the Investigative Technology and Forensic Science Symposium. He was also awarded the 2024 Best Conference Paper Award at the IEEE International Conference on Electronic Communications, Internet of Things, and Big Data. Lienโ€™s entrepreneurial success was acknowledged with the 2024 Best Startup Selection in Beijing and other notable innovation awards. Additionally, he was recognized with the 2023 EE Times Asia Award for Best AI Product of the Year and numerous awards from government and industry organizations for his contributions to AI and digital transformation.

๐ŸŒย Research Skills Artificial Intelligence

Wei-Cheng Lien’s research skills lie at the forefront of AI, AIoT integration, and digital transformation. His expertise spans IC design, testing, diagnosis, and software-hardware systems integration, which allows him to create innovative solutions across a range of industries. Lienโ€™s work in AI computing, particularly in CPU DFT architectures and low-cost test techniques for System on Chips (SoCs), has been instrumental in reducing test costs and improving design accuracy. His research on output selection for SOC debug systems has earned global recognition for reducing test response volumes and minimizing area overhead. Lien has authored over 50 technical papers and holds 9 patents, further demonstrating his proficiency in cutting-edge research. His ability to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application has been a key factor in his contributions to AI-driven industries such as healthcare, smart cities, and advanced manufacturing. Lienโ€™s ongoing research continues to push the boundaries of AI and IoT technology.

๐Ÿ“– Publication Top Notes

  • A rapid household mite detection and classification technology based on artificial intelligence-enhanced scanned images
    • Authors: Lin, L.H.-M., Lien, W.-C., Cheng, C.Y.-T., Lai, Y.-T., Peng, Y.-T.
    • Citation: Internet of Things (The Netherlands), 2025, 29, 101484
  • Image Demoirรฉing via Multiscale Fusion Networks With Moirรฉ Data Augmentation
    • Authors: Peng, Y.-T., Hou, C.-H., Lee, Y.-C., Lin, Y.-T., Lien, W.-C.
    • Citation: IEEE Sensors Journal, 2024, 24(12), pp. 20114โ€“20127
    • Citations: 3
  • Fully automated learning and predict price of aquatic products in Taiwan wholesale markets using multiple machine learning and deep learning methods
    • Authors: Lai, Y.-T., Peng, Y.-T., Lien, W.-C., Liao, C.-J., Chiu, Y.-S.
    • Citation: Aquaculture, 2024, 586, 740741
    • Citations: 2
  • Traffic Violation Detection via Depth and Gradient Angle Change
    • Authors: Peng, Y.-T., Liu, C.-Y., Liao, H.-H., Lien, W.-C., Hsu, G.-S.J.
    • Citation: 2022 IEEE 7th International Conference on Intelligent Transportation Engineering, ICITE 2022, 2022, pp. 326โ€“330
    • Citations: 1
  • Unveiling of How Image Restoration Contributes to Underwater Object Detection
    • Authors: Peng, W.-Y., Peng, Y.-T., Lien, W.-C., Chen, C.-S.
    • Citation: 2021 IEEE International Conference on Consumer Electronics-Taiwan, ICCE-TW 2021, 2021
    • Citations: 7
  • Output bit selection methodology for test response compaction
    • Authors: Lien, W.-C., Lee, K.-J.
    • Citation: Proceedings – International Test Conference, 2016, 0, 7805873
  • A Test-per-cycle BIST architecture with low area overhead and no storage requirement
    • Authors: Shiao, C.-M., Lien, W.-C., Lee, K.-J.
    • Citation: 2016 International Symposium on VLSI Design, Automation and Test, VLSI-DAT 2016, 2016, 7482556
    • Citations: 11
  • Efficient LFSR Reseeding Based on Internal-Response Feedback
    • Authors: Lien, W.-C., Lee, K.-J., Hsieh, T.-Y., Chakrabarty, K.
    • Citation: Journal of Electronic Testing: Theory and Applications (JETTA), 2014, 30(6), pp. 673โ€“685
    • Citations: 7
  • Output-bit selection with X-avoidance using multiple counters for test-response compaction
    • Authors: Lien, W.-C., Lee, K.-J., Chakrabarty, K., Hsieh, T.-Y.
    • Citation: Proceedings – 2014 19th IEEE European Test Symposium, ETS 2014, 2014, 6847823
    • Citations: 3
  • Output selection for test response compaction based on multiple counters
    • Authors: Lien, W.-C., Lee, K.-J., Chakrabarty, K., Hsieh, T.-Y.
    • Citation: Technical Papers of 2014 International Symposium on VLSI Design, Automation and Test, VLSI-DAT 2014, 2014, 6834865
    • Citations: 2

 

Iustina Ivanova | Computer Science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Iustina Ivanova | Computer Science | Best Researcher Award

๐Ÿ‘คย Mrs. Iustina Ivanova, FBK, Italy

Iustina Ivanova is an accomplished researcher in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with a focus on computer vision and machine learning applications in real-world scenarios. She holds a Masterโ€™s degree in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Southampton, where she earned distinction for her research on neural networks for object detection. Currently, Iustina is engaged in AI research in smart agriculture at the Fondazione Bruno Kessler in Italy. Over the years, she has contributed to a variety of high-impact projects, including developing a recommender system for outdoor sport climbers and researching sensors for sports activity analysis. Her work has earned her several well-regarded publications and recognition in the AI and computer vision communities.

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๐ŸŒŸย Summary of Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award

Iustina Ivanova demonstrates exceptional qualifications for the “Research for Best Researcher Award.” Her academic background, professional experience, and research contributions highlight her significant impact on the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and computer vision. Her academic journey is distinguished by a Masterโ€™s degree in Artificial Intelligence with distinction from the University of Southampton and ongoing research pursuits during her Ph.D. studies. While her Ph.D. remains incomplete, the work she has undertakenโ€”such as her contributions to recommender systems and computer visionโ€”showcases her ability to address complex, real-world problems.

Professionally, Iustina’s research experience is diverse and impactful. At the Fondazione Bruno Kessler, she has been actively involved in applying AI to smart agriculture, addressing sustainability and innovation in the domain. Her previous roles, including as a Computer Vision Data Scientist and Data Science Moderator, further demonstrate her ability to bridge academia and industry.

๐ŸŽ“ย Education

Iustina Ivanova has an impressive academic background in computer science and AI. She completed her Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence with distinction at the University of Southampton, UK, in 2018. Before that, she earned a Specialist degree in Software Engineering from Bauman Moscow State Technical University, Russia, in 2013. In 2019, she pursued a PhD in Computer Science at the Free University of Bolzano, Italy, although she later decided to focus more on practical AI applications. Her academic journey includes notable achievements such as developing research in neural networks for object detection, which has been the cornerstone of her professional career in AI.

๐Ÿ’ผย ย Professional Experienceย 

Iustina Ivanova has a diverse and robust professional background in AI and computer vision. She currently works as a researcher at the Fondazione Bruno Kessler, Italy, specializing in the use of AI for smart agriculture. Prior to this, Iustina served as a Data Science Moderator at Netology, Russia, where she designed and delivered online courses in statistics and mathematics for data science students. She also worked as a Computer Vision Data Scientist at OCRV, Russia, where she helped develop a video-based tracking system for railway workers, focusing on object detection and worker time measurement. Iustina’s role as a teacher of informatics and mathematics at Repetitor.ru involved preparing high school students for their final exams, ensuring that many students successfully entered top universities. Throughout her career, she has collaborated on numerous innovative projects in AI, particularly in outdoor sports and smart agriculture.

๐Ÿ…Awards and Recognitionย 

Iustina Ivanovaโ€™s dedication and excellence in the field of AI have been recognized through multiple prestigious awards and accolades. Notably, she won several editions of the NOI Hackathon, including the SFSCON Edition (2021, 2022, 2024) and the Open Data Hub Edition (2022), showcasing her ability to create cutting-edge solutions in AI and data science. Her contributions to research and development in AI for sports activity analysis and computer vision have been published in highly regarded journals and conferences, such as the ACM Conference on Recommender Systems and IEEE Conferences. Iustina has also received recognition for her teaching contributions, inspiring future generations of data scientists. Her projects, especially those related to sports climbersโ€™ recommender systems and sensor data analysis, have received wide acclaim for their innovation and real-world impact.

๐ŸŒ Research Skills On Computer Science

Iustina Ivanovaโ€™s research expertise spans artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, and recommender systems. She is particularly skilled in using AI techniques to solve complex problems in real-world applications. Her work with neural networks for object detection and sensor data analysis has led to significant advancements in both sports and smart agriculture sectors. Iustina is proficient in Python, OpenCV, machine learning frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow, and data analysis tools such as Jupyter Notebook and Git. She is well-versed in the development of recommender systems and has implemented innovative solutions for outdoor sports, including climbing crag recommendations. Her interdisciplinary approach combines knowledge from software engineering, data science, and AI to design systems that enhance user experience and improve decision-making. Iustina is committed to the continual development of her skills, evident in her participation in advanced data science and deep learning courses, as well as her extensive practical work in AI.

๐Ÿ“– Publication Top Notes

  • Climbing crags repetitive choices and recommendations
    • Author: Ivanova, I.
    • Citation: Proceedings of the 17th ACM Conference on Recommender Systems, RecSys 2023
    • Year: 2023
    • Pages: 1158โ€“1164
  • How can we model climbers’ future visits from their past records?
    • Authors: Ivanova, I., Wald, M.
    • Citation: UMAP 2023 – Adjunct Proceedings of the 31st ACM Conference on User Modeling, Adaptation and Personalization
    • Year: 2023
    • Pages: 60โ€“65
  • Introducing Context in Climbing Crags Recommender System in Arco, Italy
    • Authors: Ivanova, I.A., Wald, M.
    • Citation: International Conference on Intelligent User Interfaces, Proceedings IUI
    • Year: 2023
    • Pages: 12โ€“15
  • Climbing crags recommender system in Arco, Italy: a comparative study
    • Authors: Ivanova, I., Wald, M.
    • Citation: Frontiers in Big Data
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume: 6, Article: 1214029
  • Map and Content-Based Climbing Recommender System
    • Authors: Ivanova, I.A., Buriro, A., Ricci, F.
    • Citation: UMAP2022 – Adjunct Proceedings of the 30th ACM Conference on User Modeling, Adaptation and Personalization
    • Year: 2022
    • Pages: 41โ€“45
  • Climbing Route Difficulty Grade Prediction and Explanation
    • Authors: Andric, M., Ivanova, I., Ricci, F.
    • Citation: ACM International Conference Proceeding Series
    • Year: 2021
    • Pages: 285โ€“292
  • Climber behavior modeling and recommendation
    • Author: Ivanova, I.
    • Citation: UMAP 2021 – Proceedings of the 29th ACM Conference on User Modeling, Adaptation and Personalization
    • Year: 2021
    • Pages: 298โ€“303
  • Knowledge-based recommendations for climbers
    • Authors: Ivanova, I., Andriฤ‡, M., Ricci, F.
    • Citation: CEUR Workshop Proceedings
    • Year: 2021
    • Volume: 2960
  • Climbing activity recognition and measurement with sensor data analysis
    • Authors: Ivanova, I., Andric, M., Janes, A., Ricci, F., Zini, F.
    • Citation: ICMI 2020 Companion – Companion Publication of the 2020 International Conference on Multimodal Interaction
    • Year: 2020
    • Pages: 245โ€“249
  • Video and Sensor-Based Rope Pulling Detection in Sport Climbing
    • Authors: Ivanova, I., Andriฤ‡, M., Moaveninejad, S., Janes, A., Ricci, F.
    • Citation: MMSports 2020 – Proceedings of the 3rd International Workshop on Multimedia Content Analysis in Sports
    • Year: 2020
    • Pages: 53โ€“60