Staff Profile
Dr Rebecca Balasundaram
Lecturer
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I am a highly regarded academic and researcher, boasting over two decades of teaching experience and a decade devoted to groundbreaking research in the fields of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. I earned my Ph.D. in Computer Science from Bharathiyar University, Tamil Nadu, India, in 2017, and my M.Phil in Computer Science from Periyar University, India, in 2008. Additionally, I obtained my master's degree in computer applications in 2000 from Bharathidasan University, India. Recently, I assumed a new role as a Lecturer and Module Director at York St John University in London, UK. Concurrently, I serve as an adjunct professor at Vellore Institute of Science and Technology, India. My commitment to shaping the next generation of computer scientists is evident as I share my extensive knowledge.
In my previous role, I held the position of Associate Professor at SRMIST, India. My expertise spans various domains, including Machine Learning, Blockchain technology, Cryptography, Network Security, and the Metaverse, with a Machine Learning approach aimed at enhancing and transforming immersive learning in the education sector. Driven by a passion for education, I have achieved numerous academic milestones and consistently strive to push the boundaries of knowledge. I lead the research group "MetaLearn AI Innovators Research Group," which has emerged as a dynamic hub for forward-thinking visionaries and technology enthusiasts.
My impactful career extends to participating in panel discussions on AI, delivering keynote speeches at international conferences, and actively contributing as a reviewer for esteemed journals. I stand as a respected figure in the academic community and have garnered attention for executive training and funding opportunities.
Research areas:
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
- Blockchain Technology
- Cryptography and Network Security
- Metaverse
- School – London
- Email – r.balasundaram@yorksj.ac.uk
- Research - View my work in RaY
Teaching
I have over 20 years of teaching experience, and during that time, I've had the opportunity to teach a diverse range of subjects, including:
- Python and R for Data Analysis in Machine Learning and Deep Learning.
- HTML, XML, and JavaScript for Web Applications Development.
- MATLAB for Image Processing.
- C and Java for Programming Languages.
- Cryptography and Network Security,
- Computer Networks,
- Software Engineering,
- Object-Oriented Analysis and Design (OOAD).
Currently, I am the module director for Machine Learning and Big Data Modules,
and these experiences have allowed me to contribute to the education of students in these critical areas of computer science and data science.
Research
With a decade of dedicated research experience, I have made substantial contributions to peer-reviewed journals, both at the international and national levels. Additionally, I have presented my work at conferences worldwide and authored chapters in esteemed books.
I have filed five patents for my original research, featuring novel and innovative solutions, with one successfully granted at the national level.
I have created opportunities for my students as researchers through SAAR projects and successfully secured in-house project funding from the Quality Research Funding at York St John University in 2023.
Professional Activities
I was invited as a keynote speaker and delivered a talk on the importance of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at the International Conference on Resilience Management, Sustainability & Radical Strategies held on March 27, 2023, at the Faculty of Management, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, India.
I presented my research on Blockchain technology at The School First Research Seminar, which took place in May 2023 at York St John University's London campus.
I have been involved as an active reviewer for Elsevier Journals.
In August 2023, I showcased my research at the "Research Group Summer Showcase" held at York St John University's York campus.
During September 2023, I conducted a training session for the Forensic and Police Department from Nigeria, focusing on "Security, Safety, Policy, and Strategic Planning for Security Operatives."
I had the opportunity to present my research, titled "Integrating AI-Powered Chatbots with Blockchain Technology for Enhanced Security and Trust in Data Transactions," at the workshop on "AI Technologies and the Future of Management" hosted by Liverpool University in Liverpool in September 2023.
My project, "Teachable Machine Using Mixed Reality: A New Educational Paradigm," was approved and published as part of the SAAR project in 2023, creating opportunities for the York St John University student community.
I secured the QR-funding project for 2023, titled 'Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence for Prediction, Risk Assessment, and Enhancement of Womb and Fetal Growth to Mitigate Premature Birth of Babies,' from Research at York St John University.
