Introduction
- Dr. Muhammad Rashid is an accomplished academic and researcher specializing in computer science, with a PhD from the National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences, Islamabad. He currently serves as the Principal of the NUTECH School of Information Technology and Head of the Computer Science Department at the National University of Technology (NUTECH), Islamabad. With extensive experience in teaching, research, and administration, he has made significant contributions to areas like artificial intelligence, software development, and advanced computing techniques.
- Dr. Rashid has led multiple research projects, secured substantial grants, and published widely in prestigious journals. His expertise spans deep learning, cryptography, and neural network optimization, and he actively collaborates on national and international initiatives. Passionate about nurturing talent, he has also played a pivotal role in curriculum design, faculty development, and academic program management. His diverse career includes impactful roles in academia and industry, making him a thought leader in the field.
Experience
1. Professional Experience
National University of Technology (NUTECH), Islamabad, Pakistan. Principal, NUTECH School of Information Technology (February 2024 – Present)
- Leading the strategic direction and academic initiatives of the School of Information Technology.
- Fostering collaboration between academia and industry to enhance research output and employability.
Head of Department (Computer Science) (September 2018 – Present)
- Overseeing departmental operations, curriculum development, and accreditation processes.
- Mentoring faculty and students to achieve academic excellence.
Assistant Professor (September 2018 – Present)
- Teaching foundational and advanced computer science courses, including Object-Oriented Programming, Theory of Automata, and Computational Media Design.
Additional Responsibilities
- Convener, Faculty Development Committee.
- Chair, Departmental Tenure Review Committee.
- Member of the Industrial Advisory Board, Board of Studies, and Academic Council.
- Focal person for National Computing Education Accreditation Council and IGNITE Technology Fund NGIRI initiatives.
University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Oman. Head of Department (IT) (March 2016 – August 2018)
- Directed departmental programs, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and industry needs.
- Supervised software development projects, innovations, and IT systems coordination.
Assistant Professor (April 2012 – August 2018)
- Delivered courses on Artificial Intelligence, Database Development, Network and Security Programming, and Web Development.
- Coordinated final-year projects and quality assurance activities.
Additional Roles
- Chair of Software Development Major and Quality Assurance Committees.
- Local Coordinator for academic and administrative programs.
Foundation University, Islamabad, Pakistan. Assistant Professor (July 2010 – March 2012)
- Taught courses on Artificial Intelligence, Visual Programming, and Advanced Programming.
- Served as Final-Year Project Coordinator and Quality Assurance Committee Member.
University Institute of Information Technology, PMAS-AAUR, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Visiting Assistant Professor (March 2010 – June 2010)
- Conducted courses on Machine Learning.
2. Industry Experience
Aspose Pty Ltd, Islamabad, Pakistan. Senior Support Developer (October 2007 – June 2010)
- Led software development projects using C#, VB.NET, ASP.NET, and Java.
- Created user manuals, technical documentation, and tutorials.
Post Infotech, Pakistan Post Foundation, Islamabad, Pakistan. Senior Software Developer (February 2004 – September 2007)
- Spearheaded software development projects with expertise in Java, Visual Basic, and ASP.
- Designed and implemented solutions for complex IT challenges.
Qualification
Academic Qualifications
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science
- Institution: National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Year Completed: May 2010
- Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science
- Institution: International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Year Completed: August 2004
- Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computer Science
- Institution: International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Year Completed: September 2001
Taught Course
Introduction to IT
- Overview of fundamental IT concepts, including hardware, software, and networking.
Programming Fundamentals
- Introduction to basic programming constructs and problem-solving techniques using a structured approach.
Object-Oriented Programming
- Focus on object-oriented paradigms such as encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism using languages like Java or C++.
Data Structures
- Study of efficient data storage, retrieval, and manipulation techniques using algorithms and abstract data types.
Theory of Automata
- Exploration of formal languages, automata theory, and computational problem-solving techniques.
Discrete Mathematics
- Mathematical foundations for computing, covering logic, sets, functions, and graph theory.
Database Development
- Design, implementation, and management of databases using SQL and relational database systems.
Web Development
- Principles and technologies for creating dynamic and responsive web applications.
Network and Security Programming
- Application of programming techniques to develop secure communication systems and manage network protocols.
Application Software Development
- Practical software development techniques for desktop and mobile applications.
Artificial Intelligence
- Introduction to AI concepts, including machine learning, expert systems, and natural language processing.
Computer Graphics
- Fundamentals of graphical rendering, 2D/3D transformations, and image processing.
Machine Learning
- Core concepts of machine learning, algorithms, and real-world applications in data analysis.
Concurrent Programming
- Design and implementation of programs that run simultaneously on multicore and distributed systems.
Computational Media Design
- Techniques for creating interactive digital media applications combining computation and design principles.
Advanced Programming
- Development of complex applications using advanced programming methodologies and tools.
Multicore Programming
- Programming and optimization techniques for applications in multicore and parallel computing environments.
Research
Dr. Muhammad Rashid has a prolific research record, demonstrating expertise in artificial intelligence, optimization algorithms, and computational applications in various domains. Below is a detailed summary, including key statistics and areas of contribution:
Statistical Overview
- Total Journal Publications: 18 (9 in W-category, 9 in X-category journals).
- Conference Contributions: 10+ international conference papers.
- Research Impact:
- Publications in high-impact ISI-indexed journals, including IEEE Access (Impact Factor: ~3.5), Computers, Materials & Continua (Impact Factor: ~3.9), and Membranes (Impact Factor: ~4.5).
- Key contributions in fields like medical diagnostics, deep learning, and optimization algorithms.
Key Areas of Research
- Deep Learning and Healthcare Applications
- Developed advanced AI-based diagnostic tools for healthcare, including:
- Brain Tumor Detection: Enhanced detection using EfficientNet-B7 models.
- Breast Cancer Detection: Investigated DDSM datasets using AlexNet and SVM.
- ECG Classification: Classified atrial fibrillation using customized deep learning models.
- Optimization Techniques
- Proposed innovative hybrid optimization methods:
- Honey Bee Foraging Algorithms: Modeled optimization inspired by natural swarm behavior.
- PSO-GP Frameworks: Combined particle swarm optimization with genetic programming for adaptability in dynamic scenarios.
- IoT and Smart Systems
- Designed practical frameworks for IoT-based applications:
- Autonomous Environment Monitoring: Leveraged deep learning for smart indoor management.
- Fault Detection in Vehicles: Developed intelligent sound-based systems for early anomaly detection.
- Computer Vision and Human-Computer Interaction
- Advanced applications in computer vision and accessibility:
- Face Mask Detection: Implemented robust detection systems using deep learning in complex scenes.
- Omani Sign Language Recognition: Utilized Kinect technology to develop gesture recognition systems for sign language.
- Security and Cryptography
- Pioneered techniques for secure communication:
- Optimized neural networks for cryptographic key exchange systems.
- Designed chaotic cryptography mechanisms for e-commerce security.
Projects
Notable Research Projects
- Autonomous Indoor Environment Management System (AIEMS): PKR 14.493 million funded by NCAI, Pakistan.
- Neural Network Optimization for Key Exchange: OMR 2,347 funded by TRC, Oman.
- Omani Sign Language Recognition Using Kinect: OMR 1,772 funded by TRC, Oman.
Dr. Rashid’s research integrates theoretical advancements with impactful applications, focusing on improving healthcare systems, optimizing computational frameworks, and enhancing secure communications. His publications and contributions underscore his role as a thought leader in computer science research.
Autonomous Indoor Environment Management System (AIEMS)
- Role: Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI)
- Funding Agency: National Center of Artificial Intelligence (NCAI), Pakistan
- Duration: 18 months (May 2021 – October 2022)
- Budget: PKR 14.493 million
- Summary: Developed an IoT-based system leveraging AI to optimize indoor environment management for energy efficiency and comfort.
Optimizing the Architecture of Neural Network for Key Exchange
- Role: Faculty Mentor
- Funding Agency: The Research Council (TRC), Oman
- Duration: 9 months (September 2015 – May 2016)
- Budget: OMR 2,347 (PKR 1.7 million)
- Summary: Focused on optimizing neural network architectures to enhance security in cryptographic key exchange systems.
Omani Sign Language Recognition Using Kinect
- Role: Faculty Mentor
- Funding Agency: The Research Council (TRC), Oman
- Duration: 8 months (October 2014 – May 2015)
- Budget: OMR 1,772 (PKR 1.3 million)
- Summary: Developed a gesture recognition system using Kinect technology to translate Omani sign language into text.
Development of FPGA – Hardware-Software Based Chaotic Cryptography for E-Commerce
- Role: Co-Investigator
- Funding Agency: The Research Council (TRC), Oman
- Duration: 2 years (September 2014 – August 2016)
- Budget: OMR 38,500 (PKR 27.7 million)
- Summary: Designed FPGA-based cryptographic systems for secure and efficient e-commerce transactions.
