Canadian University Dubai Students Lead the Charge in Undergraduate Research

Pioneering Innovation in Engineering

At Canadian University Dubai (CUD), students are making significant strides in the fields of engineering and technology. Karthika Manoj and Anthony Ibrahim, two standout students, are showcasing how undergraduate research can drive global innovation. Their projects in robotics and data science highlight the potential of the next generation to influence technological advancements.

Karthika Manoj: A Journey into Robotics

Karthika Manoj, a dedicated student in the Computer and Networking Engineering program, recently completed a transformative three-week research traineeship in Germany. She collaborated with the Department of Automated and Autonomous Systems at the Technical University of Freiberg. During her time there, Karthika worked on a simulator for the Unitree G1 U-6 humanoid robot, which is designed to replicate human anatomy for various tasks.

Under the guidance of esteemed academics Dennis Bäcker and Amir Nemati, Karthika applied her classroom knowledge to real-world challenges in robotics. She expressed her gratitude for the experience, stating, “This opportunity has added a practical, research-oriented dimension to my studies at CUD. It allowed me to see how the concepts I study can be applied in advanced fields like robotics and automation.”

Expanding Academic Partnerships

Karthika’s traineeship is just the beginning of a broader collaboration between CUD and TU Freiberg. Dr. Arash Kermani Kolankeh, an associate professor at CUD, emphasized the importance of this partnership. He noted, “This collaboration is part of a broader strategy to immerse our students in the production-oriented research cultures of industrialized nations. We’re working on expanding this collaboration to include official internships and faculty exchanges in the near future.”

Anthony Ibrahim: Advancing Data Science

Meanwhile, Anthony Ibrahim, a third-year Mechatronics Engineering student, is also applying his academic learning to real-world scenarios. He recently presented his research at the 7th HCT International Multi-Conferences on Advances in Science & Engineering Technology (ASET 2025). His paper, titled ‘Empirical Analysis of Feature Selection Methods under Varying Selection Thresholds,’ offers a thorough evaluation of techniques crucial in fields such as biomedical science.

Guided by faculty mentor Dr. Firuz Kamalov, Anthony’s research contributes significantly to the academic community. Dr. Kamalov remarked, “Anthony’s work exemplifies the critical inquiry we encourage at CUD, combining rigorous data analysis with practical applications. His study not only advances academic knowledge but also paves the way for innovations in biomedical sciences and artificial intelligence.”

Leaving a Lasting Impact

Anthony has made all related code publicly available on GitHub, ensuring that his contributions benefit the global research community. He continues to explore innovations in AI and robotics through ongoing projects and competitions at the university. Reflecting on his experience, Anthony said, “Working on this paper alongside Dr. Kamalov and presenting at an international conference like ASET was a rewarding milestone. It enhanced my research skills and reaffirmed my commitment to expanding my knowledge through innovative projects.”

Commitment to Experiential Learning

Dr. Sherif Moussa, professor and dean of the School of Engineering, Applied Science and Technology, highlighted the significance of these initiatives. He stated, “These efforts exemplify CUD’s commitment to experiential learning, international collaboration, and academic mentorship. Karthika and Anthony are demonstrating the real-world impact that undergraduate students can have, setting the standards for the next generation of tech leaders.”

Through their groundbreaking research and international collaborations, Karthika and Anthony are not only advancing their fields but also inspiring their peers to engage in meaningful, impactful work. Their achievements reflect the vibrant academic environment at Canadian University Dubai, where innovation and practical application go hand in hand.