Our PhD Profiles series spotlights our emerging researchers and the awesome discoveries they are making in the field of intelligent systems. In this article, we speak to graduate researcher Danial Sharifrazi.
At a glance
Joined IISRI: 2023
Supervisor: Professor Asim Bhatti and Dr Roohallah Alizadehsani
Research specialty: Artificial Intelligence, Signal and Image Analysis, Vector-Borne Disease Detection
Research project: Developing deep learning models for the classification and analysis of disease-carrying mosquitoes based on flight behaviour and spike neural signals, aiming to enhance early vector surveillance systems.
What led you to this topic?
I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of biology and artificial intelligence. After working on biomedical signal processing and publishing several papers in the field, I became deeply interested in how AI could contribute to real-world health challenges. The global burden of mosquito-borne diseases—especially in regions with limited resources—motivated me to explore intelligent, low-cost detection methods using AI.
Why is your research important and how will it make a difference?
Mosquitoes transmit diseases like dengue and Zika, affecting hundreds of millions each year. My research introduces a novel AI-driven approach that can detect disease-carrying mosquitoes by analysing flight patterns and neural activity. This Innovation has the potential to enable earlier, more precise vector control and reduce reliance on expensive, large-scale chemical interventions, adversely impacting the environment.
What inspired you to start a career in research?
Growing up, I was always driven by curiosity and a desire to solve meaningful problems. Over time, I realised research allowed me to explore unanswered questions and contribute knowledge that could improve people’s lives. Research provides the freedom to ask original questions, test ideas, and build solutions that can make a real difference in the world. The intellectual challenge and the opportunity to contribute lasting knowledge are what drew me to this path.
Why did you choose to complete a PhD at IISRI?
IISRI offered the perfect combination of interdisciplinary expertise and real-world application. The opportunity to work at the interface of AI and biology, supported by strong academic supervision and research infrastructure, made it an ideal environment for turning complex ideas into tangible solutions.
What have been your highlights so far?
I’ve had the chance to publish and present my work at international venues, collaborate with researchers across disciplines, and contribute to the field through academic publications. The support I’ve received at IISRI has enabled me to turn abstract ideas into real-world applications. Personally, adapting to a new academic culture have also been meaningful milestones.
What would you like to do once your PhD is completed?
After completing my PhD, I plan to pursue a postdoctoral position, continuing my work at the intersection of artificial intelligence and biological applications. My goal is to contribute to impactful research that supports public health and environmental monitoring, while also building collaborations across academia and industry.
Watch Danial at work
Mosquitoes are the world’s deadliest animal. Spreading diseases like malaria, dengue and zika, mosquito-borne pathogens claim up to a million human lives every year. When mosquitoes carry diseases, the tiny electrical signals in their nerve cells show characteristic signals, and their flight behaviour changes too. Daniel hopes that his research could help the global fight against mosquito-borne disease.
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