IIT Gandhinagar Doctoral Scholar Invited to Heidelberg Laureate Forum

Rishiraj Adhikary, a PhD scholar in Computer Science at IIT Gandhinagar, has been invited to participate in the prestigious Heidelberg Laureate Forum (HLF). The forum, to be held in Heidelberg, Germany, from September 21 to 28, 2024, is widely recognised as one of the most esteemed platforms for knowledge exchange. It brings together young researchers and laureates of the highest accolades in Computer Science and Mathematics, including the Abel Prize, the Fields Medal, and the ACM Turing Award.

With his participation fully funded by the HLF Foundation, Adhikary is among 30 researchers chosen to present their research posters at the event from a global pool of 200 select invitees. “This rare opportunity, allowing emerging researchers like myself to interact with pioneers in the field, is truly a dream come true!” he said, sharing his excitement. “I am eager to exchange ideas with these leading experts and discover how their work and experiences can inspire new approaches to my research.”

This annual networking event offers a rich array of activities designed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration. Over the week, attendees will engage in lectures held by laureates, panel discussions, interactive workshops, poster presentations, career-guiding sessions, and a public exhibition. “What interests me the most about this forum is the chance to connect with experts from a broad spectrum of subdomains within Computer Science and Mathematics, ranging from Artificial Intelligence to theoretical research and Material Science,” said Adhikary. “While I work at the intersection of healthcare and Computer Science, I look forward to exploring how different areas of expertise complement each other to drive innovation and solve complex problems.”

Currently pursuing his doctoral research under the guidance of Prof Nipun Batra at IIT Gandhinagar, Adhikary is working on the development of non-intrusive healthcare monitoring systems using wearable and unobtrusive devices. “The aim is to create health monitoring tools that integrate effortlessly into daily life, providing critical health insights without disrupting the user’s routine,” he explained. “The work has the potential to significantly improve the management of chronic health conditions that require constant monitoring.” Two of his key projects that he will present at the HLF include ApneaEye, a collaborative effort with AIIMS New Delhi and Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), and JoulesEye, developed during his Fulbright Scholarship at CMU under the guidance of Prof Mayank Goel. While the former is a low-cost, AI-driven solution for diagnosing sleep apnea, the latter integrates machine learning and thermal imaging to improve the accuracy of wearable devices in estimating energy expenditure or calories burned.

Reflecting on the support he has received throughout his academic journey, Adhikary credited his advisors for their mentorship. “I owe much of my growth to my mentors, particularly Prof Nipun Batra and Prof Mayank Goel. Their guidance has been crucial in shaping my research career and pushing me to seize opportunities like the HLF.” He added, “Representing IIT Gandhinagar and India at this prestigious forum is both an honour and a responsibility, and I look forward to forging sustainable collaborations that will lead to meaningful advancements in the field.”