At Deakin Institute for Intelligent Systems, our strength lies in our people. In this profile series, we speak to our researchers who are dedicated to solving complex problems with intelligent systems. In this profile, we meet Dr Mohammad Rokonuzzaman, a Research Fellow in Robotics and Autonomous Systems.
Joined IISRI: 2019 (as a PhD candidate), 2021 (as a Research Fellow)
Areas of expertise: Autonomous robotic systems, Autonomous Vehicles, Data-driven Perception and Control
Key Projects:
- Autonomous Trucks Convoy
- Tankers for the future
- A Persistent and Resilient Disaster Messaging System
Career highlights:
Successfully delivered an Australian Army-sponsored ‘Leader-Follower Autonomous Convoy’ project. This project won the Support/Services category of the Essington Lewis Awards.
What are you currently working on?
I am currently working on developing novel data-driven navigation systems for connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs), with a focus on collaborative control and decision-making. My current efforts also include integrating new capabilities into our connected vehicle fleet to support advanced research in cooperative autonomy and enable scalable real-world experimentation.
What led you to your area of expertise?
I’ve always been drawn to solving real-world problems using technology, and during my undergrad, I found myself particularly interested in control systems and how machines interact with their environment. That interest grew during my Master’s, where I worked on space systems and navigation. By the time I began my PhD, I knew I wanted to focus on autonomous vehicles, which would bring together machine learning, control, and sensor fusion. It’s a space where I can be handson, build systems that work in the field, and tackle complex challenges that have real impact.
What was your biggest highlight for 2024?
2024 was a busy and rewarding year, during which I contributed to key projects with the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and the Department of Transport (TDRI program), helping to advance the goals of our team and the broader mission of IISRI and Deakin University. Another highlight was the strategic development of the autonomy stack for both research and practical applications. This included refining the system for research use, creating scalable frameworks, and integrating advanced features. The work was successfully showcased at the Land Forces Symposium, where the autonomy stack’s capabilities were demonstrated to key stakeholders.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is the opportunity to work on real-world problems that blend research and engineering. I get to design and build systems that aren’t just theoretical but can be tested in the field and make a tangible impact. I also enjoy the mix of teamwork and independence, especially collaborating with talented colleagues and mentoring students. Every project brings new challenges, and that keeps the work interesting and rewarding.
If you could solve one challenge through your research, what would it be?
If I could solve one challenge through my research, it would be enabling seamless and reliable coordination between connected autonomous vehicles in dynamic environments. Ensuring that multiple vehicles can share information, make joint decisions, and adapt in real time, especially when connectivity is limited, or conditions are uncertain. This would significantly improve safety, efficiency, and trust in autonomous systems.
This article was originally published in the 2024 IISRI Annual Report.
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