Umar Raza

Dr. Umar Raza serves as a Senior Lecturer in Networking, IoT and Smart Systems at Manchester Metropolitan University's Department of Engineering, where he concurrently manages the Cisco Network Academy. His academic career includes prior lecturing roles in Robotics and Computing at Staffordshire University, with research spanning industrial applications of emerging technologies.

His educational credentials include a PhD in Wireless Sensor Networks from the University of Bradford (2014), Postgraduate Certificates in Research Methods and Professional Higher Education from Staffordshire University (2005, 2007), an MSc in Electronics and Computer Systems from Huddersfield University (1995), and a BSc in Engineering Electronics from DeMontfort University Leicester.

Dr. Raza's research centers on Internet of Things applications integrated with Machine Learning across industrial, agricultural, and healthcare domains. Current projects address IoT/ML solutions for domicile care monitoring, cognitive impairment assistance, natural disaster early warning systems, and smart farming in Pakistan, with emphasis on practical implementations in real-world environments.

His recent publications demonstrate a pronounced interdisciplinary trajectory, particularly at the IoT-Machine Learning nexus for healthcare innovation (cardiac diagnostics, autism support wearables) and agricultural technology. Significant contributions also appear in blockchain scalability, vehicular network security, and 5G propagation modeling, reflecting both theoretical rigor and industry-relevant problem solving.

Professional recognition includes:

• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)

Dr. Raza actively supervises two MSc and two PhD candidates while leading multiple funded projects:

• Principal Investigator for KTP projects with Kindus Solutions (completed) and Trumeter Ltd
• Project Advisor for KTP with RAIT Ltd
• Lead researcher on NATO Science for Peace Security grant for natural disaster warning systems
• Principal Investigator for Ignite National Technology Fund smart farming initiative in Pakistan

As Cisco Network Academy Manager, he drives industry-academia collaboration in networking education, developing curricula that integrate cutting-edge IoT and cybersecurity concepts while maintaining strong professional engagement through IEEE, IET, and BCS memberships.