Eric Howard | Artificial Intelligence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Eric Howard | Artificial Intelligence | Research Excellence Award

Honorary Research Fellow at Macquarie University | Australia

Dr. Eric Howard is a distinguished multidisciplinary scholar whose contributions span quantum computing, artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, theoretical physics, and scientific philosophy, recognized for advancing both foundational research and transformative technological innovation. His work integrates quantum information theory with machine learning, leading to pioneering developments in quantum-classical neural networks, AI-enhanced intrusion detection models, quantum Bayesian inference frameworks, and advanced simulation methods for exploring molecular systems and emergent physical phenomena. With expertise that bridges scientific rigor and applied innovation, he has contributed significantly to research on quantum graph neural networks, holographic beam shaping, variational algorithm design, and AI-driven optimization for next-generation computational systems. His scholarly output includes a substantial body of peer-reviewed publications across major scientific outlets, along with editorial leadership in physics and theoretical sciences, where he supports global research through special issues, journal editing, and peer-review responsibilities. As an author and thought leader, he has produced influential academic texts and continues to develop works that deepen the understanding of machine learning theory and the evolution of quantum scientific paradigms. His professional impact extends into industry through leadership roles in AI-enabled cybersecurity and digital intelligence ventures, translating advanced theoretical models into practical solutions for threat analytics, secure digital infrastructures, cloud intelligence, and automated decision systems. Actively involved in leading scientific societies across computing, optics, physics, mathematics, and interdisciplinary research, he contributes to knowledge communities that shape the future of computational science and emerging technologies. Across academia, research, and innovation ecosystems, he is recognized for his ability to unify quantum science, intelligent computation, and high-impact problem solving, establishing a reputation as an influential figure driving progress at the intersection of advanced physics, machine intelligence, and next-generation technological development.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Ackley, K., Adya, V. B., Bailes, M., Blair, D., Lasky, P., & Howard, E. (2020). Neutron Star Extreme Matter Observatory: A kilohertz-band gravitational-wave detector in the global network.

Xue, X., Bian, L., Shu, J., Yuan, Q., Zhu, X., Bhat, N. D. R., Dai, S., Feng, Y., … (2021). Constraining cosmological phase transitions with the Parkes pulsar timing array.

Yoshiura, S., Pindor, B., Line, J. L. B., Barry, N., Trott, C. M., Beardsley, A., … (2021). A new MWA limit on the 21 cm power spectrum at redshifts ∼13–17.

Xue, X., Xia, Z. Q., Zhu, X., Zhao, Y., Shu, J., Yuan, Q., Bhat, N. D. R., Cameron, A. D., … (2022). High-precision search for dark photon dark matter with the Parkes Pulsar Timing Array.

Rahimi, M., Pindor, B., Line, J. L. B., Barry, N., Trott, C. M., Webster, R. L., Jordan, C. H., … (2021). Epoch of reionization power spectrum limits from Murchison Widefield Array data targeted at EoR1 field.

Devarajan, H. R., Singh, S. B., & Howard, E. (2024). Explainable AI for cloud-based machine learning interpretable models and transparency in decision making.

Dr. Manisha Nene | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Manisha Nene | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award 

Seasoned Leader, Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, India

Dr. Manisha Nene, a seasoned leader at the intersection of research, academia, and industry, holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science and has devoted over two decades to advancing artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Throughout her career she has held key leadership roles, including Director of the School of Mathematical Sciences and Computer Engineering and Head of the Department of Computer Science & Engineering at DIAT-DRDO. Her professional experience spans guiding doctoral and master’s scholars, leading national-level research projects, and founding MAJINE Systems Pvt. Ltd., which develops cybersecurity and AI-based solutions rooted in her patented innovations. Dr. Nene’s research interests lie in secure AI, trustworthy computing, digital transformation, and responsible infrastructure. She is proficient in advanced research skills such as machine learning, adversarial defense, threat modeling, deep neural networks, cryptographic protocols, and data analytics. Over her career she has received numerous awards, including IETE’s Smt. Triveni Devi Award for her contributions to ICT for society, the Future Crime Research Foundation’s Award of Excellence for PAN-India cyber security training, institute-level Researcher of the Year awards, and multiple Best Paper Awards at international conferences. Her Scopus profile reflects 129 documents, over 716 citations, and an h-index of 13 (Scopus ID: 35488434700).

profile: GOOGLE SCHOLAR | SCOPUS | ORCID 

Featured Publications

  • Nene, M. A secure AI framework for adversarial attack mitigation in critical infrastructures. (202, 45 citations)

  • Nene, M. Trustworthy deep learning in cyber-physical systems: techniques and challenges. (2022, 55 citations)

  • Nene, M. Privacy-preserving machine learning with homomorphic encryption in cloud environments. (2020, 38 citations)

  • Nene, M. Blockchain-enabled authentication protocols for Internet of Things security. (2019, 29 citations)