Pragalathan Apputhurai

Dr. Pragalathan (Prahan) Apputhurai is a Lecturer in Applied Statistics at Swinburne University of Technology's School of Health Sciences. With a PhD in Applied Statistics from Swinburne and prior degrees from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, his expertise spans Bayesian Statistics, Structural Equation Modeling, and Extreme Events Data Modelling. He teaches undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Applied Statistics and supervises PhD/Master's students in areas including Factor Analysis and Social Determinants of Health.

Education:

• PhD in Applied Statistics, Swinburne University of Technology, Australia
• Bachelor of Science & Applied Statistics, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka

Research Interests: Specializing in statistical methods for health and social sciences, Dr. Apputhurai's work addresses issues including intimate partner violence, mental health in chronic disease populations, and empathetic AI in healthcare. His recent publications focus on structural equation modeling applications, psychometric validation in gastrointestinal disorders, and conversational agent empathy assessment.

Grants:

• Rome Foundation (2025): Dietary interventions for IBS pain management
• Civil Aviation Safety Authority (2022-2024): Bayesian methodology in aviation safety
• Department of Communities and Justice (2018-2019): Indigenous women's reintegration through empowerment pathways

Professional Recognition:

• Vice Chancellor's Teaching Excellence Award (2016)
• SUPRA Scholarship Recipient (2009)
• Academic Excellence in B.Sc. Examinations (2003)

Academic Supervision: Currently supervising research projects in inflammatory bowel disease mental health support, conversational agent development, and trauma impact on quality of life across various health conditions.