Umair Iqbal

Dr. Umair Iqbal is a Researcher in the School of Engineering at the University of Newcastle, specializing in Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) with a focus on Computer Vision and Edge-Computing solutions for real-world challenges like disaster management and water resource optimization. He holds a PhD from the University of Wollongong and is an NVIDIA DLI Ambassador, delivering workshops on deep learning and AIoT technologies. His research emphasizes AI-driven video analytics for infrastructure monitoring (e.g., culvert blockage detection), public safety (e.g., violence detection in transit systems), and environmental applications (e.g., flood risk mitigation).

His work combines interdisciplinary approaches, leveraging tools like TensorFlow, NVIDIA frameworks, and edge devices (Jetson platforms). Key contributions include developing an AIoT solution for pipeline protection, a real-time edge-computing system for public transport safety, and bibliometric reviews on drones and computer vision in flood management. Dr. Iqbal has secured $114,814 in grants, including a 2023 project on floodborne debris identification and a 2025 initiative for kerbside waste management. He actively supervises graduate students and leads projects like StopBlock (culvert blockage detection) and iMOVE (transport safety analytics).

Research interests span AIoT frameworks, generative AI, and geotechnical applications. His publications (23+ journal articles, 3 conference papers, 2 book chapters) address hydraulic infrastructure resilience, machine learning in civil engineering, and disaster response technologies. He collaborates with industry partners like Remondis and fosters innovation through workshops and course coordination at undergraduate/postgraduate levels.