Get to know our Cyber-Physical Systems Research Fellow, Dr Ali Rohan. Originally from Pakistan, Dr Rohan has been part of the Cyber-Physical Systems team at the NSC since February 2023. Prior to joining, Dr Rohan earned his doctorate in Electrical, Electronics and Control Engineering from the Kunsan National University in South Korea. Before the NSC, Dr Rohan worked as a Research Fellow at the University of Nottingham, UK. Contributing to achieving net-zero dairy emissions in the UK, he focused on developing AI and computer vision-based autonomous behaviour recognition and associated disease detection models for livestock. Before that, he worked as an Assistant Professor at Dongguk University, South Korea. He focused on developing intelligent machines for industrial AI and manufacturing digitisation. Dr Rohan's main research interests are in the domains of Robotics, AI, Computer Vision and Autonomous Systems.
What is your research all about?
At the NSC, my primary research focus is on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics and Autonomous Systems in complex environments, with a particular emphasis on underwater applications. Autonomous systems are intelligent machines designed to operate independently by perceiving their surroundings, processing information and making real-time decisions without human intervention. These systems leverage AI, sensor fusion and advanced control mechanisms to navigate and perform tasks efficiently in unpredictable and dynamic environments. In underwater robotics, these challenges are further amplified due to the harsh and unstructured nature of marine environments, where traditional technologies struggle with sensor degradation, communication limitations and environmental variability.
My research at the NSC specifically explores intelligent underwater robotics, focusing on enhancing perception, navigation and decision-making capabilities in subsea conditions. Underwater environments present unique challenges, such as poor visibility, varying turbidity levels and the inability to rely on traditional GPS-based localisation. To address these issues, I am developing AI-driven perception systems that integrate vision-based and sonar-based sensing technologies for robust depth estimation and object detection. Additionally, my work involves investigating sensor fusion techniques, where data from multiple sensing modalities are combined to improve the accuracy and reliability of underwater robotic systems. By leveraging deep learning and advanced SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping) approaches, my research aims to enable autonomous systems to map unknown environments, avoid obstacles and make intelligent decisions even in highly complex underwater conditions.
The long-term vision of my research is to create fully autonomous underwater systems that can operate in real-world scenarios with minimal human intervention. These intelligent robotic systems have significant applications in marine exploration, environmental monitoring, offshore infrastructure inspection and search-and-rescue missions.
What or who first sparked your interest in your research subject?
I have been fascinated by the field of robotics since my early school years. The idea of intelligent machines capable of performing tasks independently to minimise human burden has always intrigued me. As I progressed in my academic and research journey, this fascination evolved into a passion for developing autonomous systems that can perceive, learn and make decisions without human intervention. My work has spanned various domains of robotics, from aerial and industrial automation to autonomous underwater systems, all driven by the goal of creating intelligent machines that can operate in complex environments with minimal human oversight.
During my research career, I have worked on autonomous aerial drones equipped with hearing and vision capabilities, enabling them to perceive their surroundings and perform tasks autonomously. These systems were designed to operate in dynamic and complex environments, using AI-driven perception and decision-making algorithms. Additionally, I have developed intelligent industrial robotic systems with self-diagnostic capabilities, allowing them to monitor performance, detect faults, and optimise operations autonomously. By integrating machine learning and predictive maintenance algorithms, these robots could anticipate failures, improve efficiency, and reduce downtime in industrial settings.
What impact is your research having outside of academia?
My research in autonomous robotics and AI-driven underwater systems is making a significant impact beyond academia, particularly in marine industries, environmental monitoring and offshore infrastructure inspection. By developing intelligent underwater robotic systems, my work contributes to reducing the need for human divers in hazardous environments, improving the efficiency and safety of underwater operations. This has direct applications in sectors such as offshore energy, marine exploration and subsea asset management, where autonomous systems can enhance inspection, maintenance and monitoring tasks with greater reliability and lower operational costs.
Beyond industrial applications, my research is also contributing to environmental conservation and marine sustainability. Autonomous underwater systems equipped with AI-driven perception and sensor fusion can be deployed for ecosystem monitoring, pollution detection and marine biodiversity assessment. These technologies enable more effective and real-time data collection in remote or deep-sea environments, supporting efforts in climate research, habitat protection and ocean resource management. By bridging the gap between AI-driven autonomy and real-world marine challenges, my research is helping to shape the future of intelligent subsea technologies that benefit both industry and society.
Are there any role models or mentors who have helped you along the way?
Professor Sung-Ho Kim, my PhD supervisor, has been a pivotal mentor in shaping my research career, refining my abilities in both scientific inquiry and practical application. Under his guidance, I learned to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world implementation, ensuring that my work in AI-driven autonomous systems is both innovative and impactful. He emphasised the importance of critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration and perseverance, encouraging me to tackle complex research problems with a pragmatic approach. His mentorship has particularly influenced my ability to mentor and support junior researchers and PhD students, fostering a research culture that values both technical excellence and professional development.
What advice do you have for somebody embarking on a research career?
For anyone embarking on a research career, my biggest advice is to stay curious, be persistent and embrace challenges. Research is about exploring the unknown, which means encountering setbacks and uncertainties is inevitable. However, these challenges should be seen as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Developing a problem-solving mindset and maintaining intellectual curiosity will help you navigate the complexities of research and push the boundaries of knowledge in your field.
Favourite thing about the NSC?
If I’m being honest, my favourite thing about the NSC is probably the coffee machine! It’s a lifesaver during long research sessions and deep technical discussions. But on a more serious note, while research environments always have their challenges, I do appreciate the opportunity to work on cutting-edge problems in underwater autonomy and contribute to real-world applications in robotics and AI. Having access to facilities and industry collaborations also adds a practical dimension to research, making it more impactful beyond academia. But yes—without a doubt, the coffee machine keeps everything running smoothly!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I have a mix of interests that keep me balanced. Music and movies are a big part of my downtime—I’m a huge movie fan and always up for a good film. Travelling and exploring new places also excites me, as I enjoy experiencing different cultures and environments.
When it comes to staying active, I hit the gym regularly—you’ll often find me in a corner struggling against weights, but I keep pushing through! I also enjoy cricket and football from time to time. And of course, after all that, sleeping is one of my favourite ways to recharge!
