Harmony Day: Meet some smart sensing researchers from diverse backgrounds

As we celebrate Harmony Day, we recognise the breadth and depth that cultural diversity brings to the NSSN, and the valuable contributions that researchers from all different backgrounds bring to smart sensing research.

Dr Ketema Zeleke from Ethiopia (left) says water is a scarce resource which should be properly managed. His research involves soil and water management, crop modelling and hydrology (right). Credit: Supplied.

Dr Ketema Zeleke, Senior Lecturer in Agricultural Water Management at Charles Sturt University

I am originally from Ethiopia. Before joining Charles Sturt University in 2009, I was an Associate Professor in the department of Soil and Water Engineering at Haramaya University in Ethiopia. My research involves soil and water management, crop modelling, and hydrology.

Soil water content and crop growth data is used in understanding the impact of different management factors and calibrate and validate simulation models. Accurate measurement of these parameters is required to reach reliable conclusions. Soil water content and soil water potential sensors give continuous data monitoring which cannot be obtained by traditional methods such as taking soil samples using augers.

Sensors record data in times scale of minutes while the soil samples can be taken only certain number of times during the crop growing season. Once installed, soil water sensors can be used for several years at deeper depths. Crop canopy growth, health and nutritional requirement can be determined from green canopy sensors.

As a scarce resource, water should be properly used and managed. Soil measurement and monitoring is important as we cannot manage what we cannot measure.

Dr Shuying Wu grew up in China and is a materials engineer at the University of Sydney. Credit: Supplied

Dr Shuying Wu, Senior Lecturer in the School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering,University of Sydney

I grew up in a small city in southeast China and came to Australia about 15 years ago. Having had the opportunity to pursue my education in both China and Australia, I've had the privilege of immersing myself in diverse cultural and linguistic environments. This unique journey has not only broadened my understanding of different cultures but has also honed my ability to navigate and appreciate the intricacies of various languages and traditions.

I am a Materials Engineer by training, specialising in polymer science and engineering. My research endeavours are dedicated to advancing functional polymer nanocomposites for various applications ranging from strong, stiff structures for aerospace, automotive, marine industries to flexible, soft sensors tailored for wearable technology, human-machine interfaces, and robotic systems.

Graphic shows the various applications of Dr Wu’s specialisation in polymer science and engineering.
Credit: Supplied

I have recently developed highly elastic polymer nanocomposites for creating high-performance sensors. The sensors enable continuous detection of vital signs such as heat rate, respiration rates, and body temperature. Beyond the realms of traditional healthcare applications, the transformative potential of this technology is immense. It lays the groundwork for a new era of personalised health management, where individuals can proactively monitor their well-being in real-time, leading to more informed healthcare decisions and improved quality of life.

Dr Mehrdad Amirghasemi (right) has a Persian heritage. He is a Lecturer in Business Analytics at University of Wollongong.
The image (left) is AI generated and captures the fusion of smart sensing technology in business analytics with inspirations from Persian culture. It showcases an office setting where modern data analysis tools and dashboards are beautifully integrated with elements of Persian art and architecture, symbolising the blend of tradition and innovation. Credit: OpenAI/DALL-E

Dr Mehrdad Amirghasemi, Lecturer in Business Analytics, University of Wollongong

My research centres on the intricate world of Business Analytics, with a special focus on Operations Research, exploring how smart sensing technology can revolutionise these fields. Smart sensing technology, pivotal in gathering and analysing vast amounts of data, enable businesses and organisations to optimise their operations, make data-driven decisions, and enhance their efficiency and sustainability. My involvement in smart-sensing and AIoT has spanned multiple research projects: from analysing wearable and other sensor data to assess the health impacts of infrared sauna usage, to leveraging sensor data for predicting flooding levels and identifying urban infrastructure at risk.

Having lived in both Sweden and Australia, my multicultural background, enriched by Persian heritage, has greatly influenced my research. For instance, I have been inspired by the intricate beauty of this classic Persian literature, with its focus on themes such as unity, exploration, and the interconnectedness of all things, which aligns closely with the foundational principles of Business Analytics. In classic literature, poets like Hafez and Rumi delve into the very essence of existence, using rich metaphors to unveil deeper truths. Similarly, Business Analytics is dedicated to deciphering the complexities of data, identifying patterns and insights that are crucial for making strategic decisions. This pursuit of finding harmony amidst complexity mirrors the analytical endeavour of achieving clarity out of data chaos.

Zakria Qadir, PhD Candidate in the School of Engineering Design and Built Environment, Western Sydney University

Zakria Qadir is a PhD Candidate at Western Sydney University

I've taught and conducted research in places like Asia, Europe, and Australia, soaking up the diverse cultures along the way. These experiences have shaped me and how I approach my work. 

When it comes to smart sensing, my project at Western Sydney University,  UAV trajectory optimization for pre- and post-bushfire disaster assessment using artificial intelligence,  extends my PhD research to improve the implementation of a global-scale Artificial Intelligence model for analysing the impacts of bushfires. This includes detection in pre- and post-bushfire phases, tracking fires, and sharing useful information with stakeholders to mitigate impacts. I use cutting-edge technologies like sensor localisation and Artificial Intelligence to make this happen. This research work could change how we deal with natural disasters.

Australia often has bushfires, so what I do is very important for keeping everyone safe and could make a big difference in keeping us all out of danger. With my mix of cultural know-how and tech skills in smart sensing and AI, I'm kind of a leading figure in my field. I am also a part of Natural Hazards Research Australia. By sharing what I learn in top journals and conferences, I'm making sure we are all ready for whatever disasters come our way.

Graphic shows how Zaria Qadir’s research work utilises smart sensors to analyse bushfire impacts.
Credit: Supplied