Using advanced analytics and AI for a more efficient, informed and connected world

"Whether it's monitoring patients' progress in cancer therapies, promoting healthy living for the elderly, or creating a more sustainable world, my research's overarching objective is to empower organisations and individuals to harness the power of data for transformative impact."

Seeing the literal effects of his research fills Dr Saiful Islam with the most pride.

"To address real-world challenges, whether in healthcare, climate change, cybersecurity, or customer service, speaks to the practicality and relevance of my work," he says.

This work primarily involves utilising cutting-edge data analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques to solve intricate problems across a range of industries – he uses advanced methods "to make sense of large and diverse" data sets to allow them to achieve better outcomes in decision-making and advancement.

From local communities to the global arena

Most recently, practical applications of his work have included creating an AI solution that automatically detects defects in sports cards and developing an algorithm to estimate the probability of the success of therapy programs for osteoarthritis patients.

"In collaboration with a PhD student, I am also currently engaged in the development of AI and data-analytics-driven solutions aimed at characterising the biomarkers of EC cancer patients and evaluating the effectiveness of specific drugs," he says.

"From local communities to the global arena, my work demonstrates the tangible and far-reaching impact of data-driven solutions across diverse sectors."

"I am also deeply committed to ensuring ethical AI practices by addressing biases and promoting privacy, fairness, and transparency in AI systems through my ongoing research efforts."

Prior to joining the University of Newcastle, Dr Islam was a lecturer in big data analytics at Queensland’s Griffith University while he also undertook roles as a Research Fellow and Associate at La Trobe University and Swinburne University of Technology respectively.

The latter is where he completed his Doctor of Philosophy after initially obtaining a Bachelor and Master of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Dhaka – Bangladesh.

He is a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and a Fellow of Higher Education Academy.

Breaking down barriers

While his focus is solving complex problems, his research has also come with its own set.

"One of the most significant hurdles I encountered was dismantling the barriers between academic research and industrial R&D (research and development)," he says.

Bridging this gap was crucial, as industry challenges possess distinct nuances compared to academic research problems. This required me to immerse myself in industry engagement practices, undergoing training to understand the dynamics of industry R&D.

"Establishing trust and fostering partnerships emerged as a particularly formidable challenge, but the resounding success of my collaborative endeavors resonated through word of mouth, proving instrumental in surmounting this hurdle."

Progressing society

Dr Saiful says he finds “immense motivation” in breaking down the barriers between "academic research and industry needs" but his pursuits also extend to larger societal goals.

"I aspire to contribute to addressing critical issues such as climate change, cybersecurity, recycling, and healthcare advancement," he says.

"By utilising data-driven methodologies, I aim to facilitate progress as a society and contribute to solutions for these pressing challenges."

"Ultimately working toward a more efficient, informed and connected world."