Sailin Zhong | Intelligent control systems | Best Researcher Award

 

Dr. Sailin Zhong | Intelligent control systems | Best Researcher Award

University of Fribourg, Switzerland,Switzerland

Sai Lin Eicher is a rising interdisciplinary researcher with an impressive academic journey across Switzerland, Singapore, and the United States. His work in fluid human comfort, ambient intelligence, and extended reality bridges the gap between humans and intelligent environments. With top-notch institutional affiliations, funded international projects, and practical impact, his career trajectory is both innovative and globally relevant.

Publication Profile

Education 🎓:


Sai Lin Eicher earned his Ph.D. in Informatics with a specialization in Human-Computer Interaction from the University of Fribourg, Switzerland (July 2019 – December 2023). His doctoral thesis, titled “Fluid Human Comfort in Built Environments with Ambient Intelligence”, was advised by Prof. Denis Lalanne and Prof. Hamed S. Alavi, with a committee that included Prof. Adrian Friday, Prof. Andrew Vande Moere, and Prof. Marilyne Andersen. The research was partially funded by Innosuisse 30076.1 IP‑ICT in collaboration with Logitech.
During his Ph.D., he also served as a visiting Ph.D. student at the MIT Media Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA (August 2022 – April 2023), working on AirSpecs, a novel smart eyewear system for habitat comfort interactions, under the supervision of Prof. Joseph A. Paradiso. This research was supported by the Swiss Doc.Mobility Fellowship.
Prior to that, he completed his Master of Computing with a specialization in Computer Science at the National University of Singapore (August 2017 – January 2019), with a thesis on “Effective Smartfan Deployment in NUS SDE Net-Zero Building” under Prof. Roger Zimmermann.
Sai Lin holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Information Engineering and Media from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (August 2012 – July 2016), graduating with First Class Honours and a CGPA of 4.56/5.00. His undergraduate thesis, “Sociofeedback by Google Glass”, was supervised by Prof. Justin Dauwels.
He also spent a semester as an undergraduate exchange student at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland (February – July 2014), studying Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

Work and Research Experience 💼:


Sai Lin Eicher is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in Human-Computer Interaction at ETH Zürich (March 2024 – March 2025), where he is contributing to the 3D Sketch Map project by designing and developing a collaborative and generative AI 3D sketching game in VR and AR. He also provides technical consultancy and research guidance on user experiences for Lufthansa Group’s D‑CEET cabin digital twin training.
Previously, he served as a Work Package Lead at the Singapore-ETH Centre (November 2017 – July 2019), where he led the user interface design and development of spatial visualizations and interactive decision-support tools using Sketch and Unity 3D, aimed at enhancing data representation for policymakers.
From June to August 2015 and again from July 2016 to October 2017, he worked as a Software Engineer at IHS Markit in Singapore, supporting financial processing software (TradeSTP) and designing a centralized platform for product access and sales enhancement.
He also interned at Apple Inc., Singapore (August – December 2014) as a Business Intelligence Intern, where he optimized web applications for supply chain automation using PHP and Ruby on Rails.
As a Research Assistant at Nanyang Technological University (August 2013 – June 2014), he developed an Android application capable of separating audio signals from ambient sound using Delay-And-Sum-Beamforming.

Grants, Awards, and Fellowships 🏆:


In 2023, Sai Lin received the MIT MISTI-Switzerland Seed Grant (USD 27,100). In 2022, he was awarded the Swiss Doc.Mobility Fellowship (CHF 25,900). Earlier in his academic journey, he was recognized as a URECA President Research Scholar with Distinction in 2014. He was also the recipient of the Singapore Government Link Company SM3 Full Undergraduate Scholarship (SGD 210,000) in 2012.

Skills 💻:


Sai Lin’s expertise spans user experience research using both quantitative methods (surveys, eye-tracking, usability tests) and qualitative techniques (user interviews, diary studies), as well as mixed methods. He is proficient in user interface design tools such as Sketch, Photoshop, InVision, HTML, CSS, hardware prototyping (Raspberry Pi, Arduino), Autodesk Inventor, and Miro.
He is skilled in statistical analysis techniques including bivariate correlation, factorial analysis, clustering, and both parametric and non-parametric tests, using tools like R, STATA, and SPSS.
Sai Lin has strong programming capabilities in Python, C# (Unity3D), Swift (iOS), JavaScript (Web, React Native), R, SQL, and Java (Android). He is also experienced with AI methodologies, including supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and generative AI.

Publication : 

. ilo-wear: Exploring wearable interaction with indoor air quality forecast

  • Authors: S. Zhong, H.S. Alavi, D. Lalanne

  • Year: 2020

  • Venue: CHI Extended Abstracts (CHI EA 2020)

  • Citations: 26

2. The complexity of indoor air quality forecasting and the simplicity of interacting with it – A case study of 1007 office meetings

  • Authors: S. Zhong, D. Lalanne, H. Alavi

  • Year: 2021

  • Venue: CHI 2021

  • Citations: 17

3. Already it was hard to tell who’s speaking over there, and now face masks! Can binaural audio help remote participation in hybrid meetings?

  • Authors: L. Rosset, H. Alavi, S. Zhong, D. Lalanne

  • Year: 2021

  • Venue: CHI Extended Abstracts (CHI EA 2021)

  • Citations: 13

4. Reflecting on hybrid events: Learning from a year of hybrid experiences

  • Authors: A.A. Ansah, A.S. Vivacqua, S. Zhong, S. Boll, M. Constantinides, H. Verma, …

  • Year: 2023

  • Venue: CHI Extended Abstracts (CHI EA 2023)

  • Citations: 12

5. Proxy methods for detection of inhalation exposure in simulated office environments

  • Authors: S. Yun, S. Zhong, H.S. Alavi, A. Alahi, D. Licina

  • Year: 2023

  • Venue: Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, Vol. 33(3)

  • Citations: 11

6. Predictive Models of Indoor CO₂ Concentration: Toward Context-Aware Occupant Support in Offices

  • Authors: H.S. Alavi, S. Zhong, D. Lalanne

  • Year: 2020

  • Venue: SmartPhil@IUI 2020

  • Citations: 11

7. A novel decision support tool for climate-responsive urban design

  • Authors: S. Zhong, I. Nevat, J.A. Acero, L.A. Rüfenacht, P. Jan, E. Koh

  • Year: 2019

  • Venue: Journal of Physics: Conference Series, Vol. 1343

  • Citations: 7

8. Airspec: A smart glasses platform, tailored for research in the built environment

  • Authors: P. Chwalek, S. Zhong, D. Ramsay, N. Perry, J. Paradiso

  • Year: 2023

  • Venue: ACM IJCAI Adjunct

  • Citations: 6

Sai Lin Eicher meets and exceeds the criteria for a Best Researcher Award in a design-tech-HCI-focused category. His work is not only innovative and interdisciplinary but also strongly backed by funding, collaborations with premier institutions, and real-world applications.

 

VIPIN PACHOURI | Continuum Robotics | Best Researcher Award

 

Dr. VIPIN PACHOURI | Continuum Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Dr.VIPIN PACHOURI ,IIT Roorkee, India

Dr. Vishal Pachouri is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his exceptional contributions in robotics, control systems, and medical device technology. His patents, research funding, industrial experience, and leadership in academia set him apart. To further solidify his candidacy, expanding high-impact publications, industry collaborations, and patent commercialization would enhance his research legacy.

Publication Profile

Education:

Dr. Vishal Pachouri has an extensive academic background in mechanical and robotics engineering. He completed his Ph.D. (submitted in 2024) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee with a CGPA of 7.8/10, focusing on model-based development of robotic systems. Prior to this, he obtained his M.Tech in Machine Design from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Uttarakhand in 2018 with a CGPA of 8.2/10. His undergraduate studies were in Mechanical Engineering at Uttar Pradesh Technical University, Lucknow, where he graduated in 2014 with an 80% score.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Pachouri has a robust industrial and research background. Currently, he serves as a Specialist and Configuration Controller at Tata Elxsi’s Healthcare and Life Science Business Unit (HLSBU), where he leads robotic development for medical devices, including AI-integrated nursing robots and robotic medical beds. His responsibilities encompass product ownership, DFMEA, risk assessment, and software development under the V-model framework.Previously, as a Doctoral Researcher at the Robotics & Control Laboratory, IIT Roorkee (2018-2023), he worked extensively on Model-Based Design (MBD) of robotic systems, focusing on inverse kinematic control, stiffness-based flexible arm control, and developing a patented soft robotic arm. Additionally, he has held research positions at CRIStAL UMR-CNRS, University de Lille, France, conducting workspace evaluation and Hardware-In-Loop (HIL) simulations for robotic manipulators.

Skills and Expertise:

Dr. Pachouri specializes in robotic system kinematics, dynamics, and control, mechatronic systems, model-based development (MBD), and medical robotics. He is proficient in computational tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, SimScape, Python, and SolidWorks, along with project management tools like JIRA and Gerrit. His expertise extends to design, risk analysis (DFMEA), system architecture, and control algorithms for robotic applications.

Research Focus:

His research centers on the design and control of robotic and mechatronic systems, including soft robotics, tendon-driven manipulators, and mobile bionic robots. He has contributed significantly to inverse kinematics, workspace optimization, and AI-driven robotic applications. His patented work includes a tendon-driven continuum robotic arm and an AI-based tomato harvesting mobile bionic robot for uneven terrains.

Awards and Recognitions:

Dr. Pachouri has received numerous accolades, including:DST NIDHI PRAYAS Grant of INR 10 Lakh for innovative robotic solutions.,Mitacs Globalink Research Award (2023) worth $6000 CAD.,Runner-up in Poster Presentation at the MIED Department Research Scholar Day (2022).,MHRD scholarships during his Master’s (2 years) and Ph.D. (5 years).,GATE-qualified in 2015 and 2016.

 

Publication : 

 

  • Kinematics Model of Bionic Manipulator by Using Elliptic Integral Approach

    • Authors: MK Mishra, AK Samantaray, G Chakraborty, V Pachouri, PM Pathak, R Merzouki

    • Published In: Machines, Mechanism and Robotics

    • Pages: 319-325

    • Citations: 5

    • Year: 2022

  • Inverse Kinematic Model of a Cable-Driven Continuum Manipulator

    • Authors: V Pachouri, PM Pathak

    • Published In: Advances in Industrial Machines and Mechanisms

    • Pages: 553-564

    • Citations: 4

    • Year: 2021

  • Design and Modeling of a Planar-to-Spatial Tendon-Driven Continuum Manipulator Subjected to Uncertain Forces

    • Authors: V Pachouri, PM Pathak

    • Published In: Robotics and Autonomous Systems

    • DOI: 170, 104551

    • Citations: 2

    • Year: 2023

  • Workspace Evaluation of Robotino-XT Under Reconfiguration

    • Authors: V Pachouri, PM Pathak, MK Mishra, AK Samantaray, R Merzouki

    • Published In: Machines, Mechanism and Robotics

    • Pages: 281-288

    • Citations: 2

    • Year: 2022

  • Active Vibration Suppression of Smart Plate Structure with Fractional-Order PID Controller

    • Authors: V Pachouri, A Sharma

    • Published In: International Journal of Mechanical and Production Engineering Research and Development

    • Citations: 2

    • Year: 2018

  • Controlling Tendons to Modulate Stiffness of a Planar-to-Spatial Tendon-Driven Continuum Manipulator Under External Uncertain Forces

    • Authors: V Pachouri, PM Pathak

    • Published In: Journal of Bionic Engineering

    • Volume: 21 (2), 821-841

    • Citations: 1

    • Year: 2024

  • Dynamic Modeling of Planar Multi-Section Tendon-Driven Continuum Manipulator (TDCM) Using Euler–Lagrange Formulation

    • Authors: V Pachouri, PM Pathak

    • Published In: Recent Advances in Machines and Mechanisms: Select Proceedings

    • Year: 2022

  • Kinematics Model of Bionic Manipulator by Using Elliptic Integral Approach

    • Authors: V Pachouri, PM Pathak, R Merzouki

    • Published In: Machines, Mechanism and Robotics: Proceedings of iNaCoMM 2019

    • Page: 319

    • Year: 2021

conclusion:

  • Sadjad’s overall profile is well-rounded with strengths across research, academia, technical skills, and professional experience.

  • Continued focus on expanding publication reach, collaboration, and public speaking could further elevate his visibility and impact in the research community.

  • With his dedication and achievements, Sadjad is well-positioned for recognition in research excellence.

In conclusion, Sadjad is a strong candidate for the award, and with a few adjustments in outreach and collaboration, he could continue to make significant strides in the research world.

 

Dr . Vikas Panwar | Automation| Best Researcher Award

Dr . Vikas Panwar | Robotics, Automation| Best Researcher Award

Dr . Dr . Vikas Panwar ,Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Technology, Pimpri, Pune,India

Dr. Vikas Panwar is a distinguished faculty member at Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Technology, Pimpri, Pune, India. He holds a Ph.D. in his field of expertise and has made significant contributions to the academic and research community. Dr. Panwar specializes in [insert specific field of expertise, e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, etc.], with a focus on [insert specific research interests or specializations, e.g., renewable energy systems, advanced manufacturing techniques, artificial intelligence,

 

Professional Profiles:

Scopus

Education :

2019-2022: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (Robotics), Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.,2013-2016: M.E. in Mechanical Engineering (Design Engineering), N.D.M.V.P.’s College of Engineering, Nashik, Maharashtra, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune. CGPA: 7.31,2007-2011: B.E. in Mechanical Engineering, S.N.J.B.’s College of Engineering, Nashik, Maharashtra, University of Pune, Pune. Percentage: 69.60%,2006-2007: H.S.C. (12th), Kendriya Vidyalaya Nasik Road Camp, Nashik, Maharashtra, Central Board of Secondary Education (C.B.S.E.). Percentage: 68.20%,2004-2005: S.S.C. (10th), Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 04, Jalandhar Cantt, Punjab, Central Board of Secondary Education (C.B.S.E.). Percentage: 58.60%,Ph.D. Thesis Detail:,Title: Design and Analysis of a Solar Powered Four-Wheeled Wet and Dry Floor Cleaning Robot Controlled Autonomously using Soft Computing Algorithms.,Supervisor: Dr. Anish Pandey, Assistant Professor, School of Mechanical Engineering, KIIT Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar.,M.E. Thesis Detail:,Title: Multi-Fault Diagnosis of Gear System using Vibration-Based Signal Processing Technique.,Supervisor: Dr. Shyam P. Mogal, Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, N.D.M.V.P.’s K.B.T. College of Engineering, Nashik, Pune University.,B.E. Project Detail:,Title: Valeo Clutch Plate: Cell Mapping & Layout,Supervisor: Mr. Jitendra S. Pagar, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, S.N.J.B.’s College of Engineering, Nashik, Pune University.

Work Experience:

Assistant Professor, Department of Automation and Robotics, Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Technology, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra (February 2023-Present).,Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Matoshri College of Engineering & Research Centre, Nashik, Maharashtra (May 2018-January 2023).,Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Marathwada Mitra Mandal’s Institute of Technology, Lohgaon, Pune, Maharashtra (August 2017-April 2018).,Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Matoshri College of Engineering & Research Centre, Nashik, Maharashtra (June 2013-July 2017).,Graduate Engineer Trainee, Quality Assurance Department, Mungi Engineers Pvt. Ltd., Chakan, Pune, Maharashtra (August 2011-August 2012).

Research Interests:

  • Mobile Robot Navigation
  • Cleaning Robot
  • Soft Computing Techniques
  • Optimization Algorithm
  • Micro Robots
  • Vibration Analysis & Measurement

Professional Objective: :

To work in an institute where I can learn and contribute to my knowledge and skills as a professor, researcher, and administrator, while being challenged to reach my full potential.

 

Publications :

  • Panwar, V. S., Moujan, I., Kazi, A., Kale, P., Rode, S., Pandey, A., & Mogal, S. (2024). A Review on Design and Characteristics of Landmine Detection Robot. EVERGREEN Joint Journal of Novel Carbon Resource Sciences & Green Asia Strategy, 11(2).
  • Kapade, T.T., Shah, S.K., Shah, D.S., Kumar, N.S., Bhor, J.K., Panwar, V. S., & Singh, G. (2024). Thermal analysis of v-cut twisted tape fitted heat exchanger: A numerical approach. International Journal on Interactive Design and Manufacturing (IJIDeM), Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12008-024-01883-2
  • Panwar, V. S., Pandey, A., & Hasan, Md. E. (2022). Design and Fabrication of a Novel Concept Based Autonomous Controlled Solar Powered Four-Wheeled Floor Cleaning Robot for Wet and Dry Surfaces. International Journal of Information Technology, Springer, 14, 1995-2004. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41870-022-00893-1
  • Panwar, V. S., Pandey, A., & Hasan, Md. E. (2022). E-Puck Motion Control using Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization. Engineering Review, 42(1), 66-76. https://doi.org/10.30765/er.1647
  • Panwar, V. S., Pandey, A., & Hasan, Md. E. (2021). Motor Velocity Based Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm Controlled Navigation Method for Two-Wheeled Pioneer P3-DX Robot in V-REP Scenario. International Journal of Information Technology, Springer, 13(5), 2101-2108. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41870-021-00731-w
  • Panwar, V. S., Pandey, A., & Hasan, Muhammad E. (2021). Generalised Regression Neural Network (GRNN) Architecture-Based Motion Planning and Control of an E-Puck Robot in V-REP Software Platform. Acta Mechanica et Automatica, 15(4), 209-214. https://doi.org/10.2478/ama-2021-0027
  • Pandey, A., Panwar, V. S., Hasan, Md. E., & Parhi, D. R. (2020). V-REP-based navigation of automated wheeled robot between obstacles using PSO-tuned feedforward neural network. Journal of Computational Design and Engineering, 7(4), 427-434, SCI Journal (IF: 3.408, Q1). https://doi.org/10.1093/jcde/qwaa035
  • Panwar, V. S., & Mogal, S. P. (2015). Multi-Fault Diagnosis of Gear System Using Vibration Based Signal Processing Technique. International Engineering Research Journal (IERJ), Special Issue 2, 1109-1112.
  • Panwar, V. S., & Mogal, S. P. (2015). A Case Study on Various Defects Found In A Gear System. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET), 2(3), 425-429.