YP Program

YP Session 1

How to Build and Develop a Research Group

Abstract: Today, I would like to share my experiences on the theme of ‘How to Build and Develop a Research Group.’ My relevant experience in this area spans 10 years starting around 2005. During that time, I established and led a research group focused on optical fiber sensing. What is necessary for this endeavor includes opportunities, ideas, competent staff, and funding. While there seems to be no definitive methodology to prepare these elements at a high level, I hope this session will provide some inspiration to young researchers.

Prof. Fumihiko Ito

Shimane University, Japan

Bio: Fumihiko Ito (M’10) received B. E. and Ph. D. degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan, in 1985 and 1999, respectively. Since joining NTT Laboratories in 1985, he has been engaged in various pieces of research on optical fiber communication systems and optical devices. His work includes semiconductor optical switches, holographic optical memory using photo-refractive effects, and their application to communication systems, and coherent demultiplexing and sampling for ultrafast signals. From 2000, he was with NTT Access Network Systems Laboratories and supervised a research group engaged in optical measurement technology for fiber network managements. Since 2014, he has been with Shimane University and engaged in education and research on optical fiber measurements and sensing. Prof. Ito is a member of the Institute of Electronics, Information, and Communication Engineers (IEICE) and the OPTICA.

How to Find a Research Topic and Evaluate Its Suitability

Abstract: Identifying and evaluating a suitable research topic is a critical first step in the research process. This process involves aligning personal interests with academic and societal needs, exploring broader themes within a field, and refining these ideas into focused research questions. Key steps in topic identification include reflecting on areas of curiosity, conducting a preliminary literature review, and considering the practical feasibility of the topic. The evaluation process assesses the novelty, scope, relevance, and potential impact of the research, ensuring it contributes meaningfully to the field. A thorough literature review helps identify existing gaps, while careful consideration of resources, data availability, and time constraints ensures the research is both achievable and impactful. Ultimately, the process culminates in a well-defined research question that serves as the foundation for the study. This approach not only increases the quality and relevance of research but also enhances its potential to address real-world problems.

Prof. Arockia Selvakumar Arockia Doss

Vellore Institute of Technology, India

Bio: Dr. Arockia Selvakumar Arockia Doss currently works as a Professor of Robotics in Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai, TN, India. He received a B.E in Mechanical Engineering from Bharathiar University in 2001, Tamil Nadu, India and M. E in Computer Aided Design from Anna University in 2004 with University Rank, Chennai, TN, India. He did Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (Robotics – Manipulator Design) from Madras Institute of Technology (MIT Campus), Anna University in 2013, Chennai, TN, India. From September 2023 to August 2024, he worked as Guest Lecturer at Bochum University of Applied Sciences, Germany under DAAD Scholarship. His research interests include Robotics and Automation, Design of Mechanisms, and Computer Aided Design. He has 21+ years of experience in Teaching and Research and published 100+ papers in national and international peer-reviewed Journals and Conferences. Filed 7 patents in the fields of Robotics and CAD/CAM/CAE and 5 patents are granted by Intellectual Property India. He is a senior member in IEEE. He was the Chairperson of the Indian Rover Challenge 2020 (IRC 2020) and Convener for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th International Conferences on Robotics, Intelligent Automation, and Control Technologies (RIACT 2020, RIACT 2021, RIACT 2022 & RIACT2023). He is an AICTE Model Curriculum committee member for the UG program Robotics and Artificial Intelligence.

How to Write a Research Paper

Abstract: The significance of communication in research – be it through conference or journal papers, presentations, or any other form of outreach – cannot be overstated. This talk underscores the importance of research communication by writing meaningful scientific articles not only as a mere tool for reporting research findings, but also as an integral process encompassing the whole research lifecycle. This talk aims to equip researchers with the essential skills and best practices to craft clear, concise, and impactful manuscripts. We will explore the key components of a research paper, with emphasis on the importance of clarity, coherence, and adherence to the need of potential readership. Practical tips for avoiding common pitfalls and enhancing the readability of papers by structuring a concise and compelling narrative will also be discussed. By the end of this talk, participants are expected to gain valuable insights and strategies to improve their scientific writing, ultimately contributing to the dissemination of high-quality research within the broader scientific community. Please note that the level of coverage and details will be subject to the time allotted to this talk.

Prof. Fahim Khan

Toyo University, Japan

Bio: Dr. Fahim Khan is a Professor at the Department of Information Networking for Innovation and Design (INIAD) in Toyo University, Tokyo, Japan. Prior to joining Toyo University, he served as a faculty member at the University of Tokyo, from where he also obtained his MS and PhD in Applied Computer Science. His current research focus includes developing security measures for IoT and smart spaces; designing distributed systems using machine learning, generative AI, and blockchain; and leveraging EdTech and learning sciences for CS, STEM and SDGs education. His research publications have won multiple best paper awards at IEEE conferences. He actively serves as a committee member at numerous IEEE and ACM conferences. A Senior Member of IEEE, Khan is a recipient of IEEE Japan Medal. He is also a globally selected member of ACM Future of Computing Academy (ACM-FCA), an initiative that brings together next-generation leaders in computing to carry the computing community into the future.

YP Session 2 (on-demand videos)

How to Write an Application for Research Grant with International Collaboration

Abstract: The first part focuses on how to build a research group from the ground up in the highly international environment of Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan. Establishing a successful research group requires securing research grants and fostering strong collaborations, particularly with international scholars. This process is not only about individual expertise but also about teamwork, networking, and strategic planning.
I will begin by discussing the global research landscape and the specific context at Nazarbayev University. Today, interdisciplinary research is becoming a dominant trend in obtaining funding, meaning that forming collaborations across different fields is crucial. To achieve this, we must actively seek partners who complement our expertise. However, collaboration is not just about academic alignment—it also requires mutual trust, shared goals, and effective communication.
To build strong international partnerships, researchers must be proactive, inclusive, and culturally aware. Understanding different work cultures, being professional, and fostering a welcoming and respectful research environment are key factors in long-term collaboration. Additionally, building a solid research reputation through publications, conferences, and networking opportunities helps attract potential collaborators. I will also present strategies for identifying and engaging with reliable and effective international research partners.
In summary, securing research grants and forming successful international collaborations depend on assembling a strong and diverse team, maintaining transparency and professionalism, and cultivating trust within the research community.

Prof. Ton Duc Do

Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan

Bio: Ton Duc Do (SM’19) received the B.S. and M.S. degrees from Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam, in 2007 and 2009, respectively, and the Ph.D. Degree from Dongguk University, Seoul, Korea, 2014 all in Electrical Engineering. From 2008 to 2009, he worked at the Division of Electrical Engineering, Thuy Loi University, Vietnam, as a Lecturer. He was a postdoctoral researcher at the Division of Electronics and Electrical Engineering, Dongguk University, in 2014. He was also a senior researcher at the Pioneer Research Center for Controlling Dementia by Converging Technology, Gyeongsang National University, Korea from May 2014 to Aug. 2015. Since Sep. 2015, he has been an assistant professor and promoted to associate professor in the Department of Robotics and Mechatronics at Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan. His research interests include the field of control engineering, electric drives, renewable energy conversion systems, and nanorobots. He has been an Associate Editor of IEEE Access sfrom April 2017 to August 2024 and IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters since August 2023. He has been promoted to be a Senior Editor of IEEE Access since May 2024. He has been also a Guest Editor for special issues of several journals such as Mathematical Problems in Engineering, Electronics, Energies, and Sensors, Fractals & Fractional, and International Journal of Advanced Robotic Systems. He received the Best Research Award from Dongguk University in 2014, the Most Cited Paper Award from Wind Energy in 2020-2021, and the Outstanding Associate Editor Award of IEEE Access in 2021, 2022, and 2023. He has been listed in the top 2% of scientists based on the citation on the single-year table from 2019 to now, and career-wide table from 2021 to now.

How to Write an Application for Research Grant – Experience Sharing from a Japanese Researcher

Abstract: Researchers are expected by their affiliated institutions to obtain as much research funding as possible and to manage it appropriately. In fact, most universities require academic researchers to apply for Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (also known as KAKENHI), and winning such grants is often considered a key achievement of the researchers. On the other hand, because the operating subsidies provided by the affiliated institutions are limited, the funds acquired are of great use in supporting activities of the researchers, such as publishing journals and participating in academic conferences. This talk aims to share how to write an application for research grant. Unlike having acceptance by journals or international conferences, winning a grant requires writing skills that stand out in competition with other researchers. For example, reviewers are not necessarily experts in the same field as us, so readability for non- experts is often prioritized over academic accuracy. The speaker hopes that this talk will contribute to participants’ challenges in grant applications.

Prof. Hirotaka Takano

Gifu University, Japan

Bio: He received his Doctor of Engineering degree from University of Fukui, Japan, in 2006. He then became an assistant professor at the National Institute of Technology, Gifu College, until 2011. From 2011 to 2015, he worked as an assistant professor at Kyushu University, and from 2015 to 2018, he was a senior assistant professor at University of Fukui. In 2018, he transferred to Gifu University as an associate professor. His research interests are advanced operation and planning of electric power systems, and applications of optimization techniques and machine learning, especially to energy management systems.