Atilla Sivri - ECE PhD Student of the Month - October 2023
Atilla Sivri is a Ph.D. student in the Helen and John C. Hartmann Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). He has the privilege of working under the guidance of Dr. Moshe Kam, who is his Ph.D. advisor, and the Dean of the Newark College of Engineering (NCE). His primary research focus is on refining pulse oximetry sensors. These sensors play a pivotal role in health monitoring and are often used by nurses and doctors to quickly assess the condition of a patient presented to them. He is deeply committed to enhancing the robustness and reliability of oximetry sensors.
In addition to this endeavor, I'm also actively involved in another research project focused on improvement of Computer Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA) systems. CASA systems are a widely used tool for reproductive health studies. Through both these domains (pulse oximetry and CASA enhancements), I aspire to make meaningful contributions to healthcare and patient well-being. Alongside my research, I am also serving as a teaching assistant for ECE 421 - Digital Data Communications, where I get to interact and share knowledge with senior-level engineering students.
What would you say that could be the next big thing in your area of research?
For CASA systems, the future lies in the integration of advanced AI and machine learning algorithms in image analysis. These innovations can allow the systems to discern subtle patterns and anomalies, thus improving diagnostic precision. In the realm of pulse oximetry, the evolution is towards developing sensors that can function accurately even under challenging conditions such as low perfusion states or when the patient is in motion. The integration of advanced materials, improved algorithms, and innovative sensor designs might be the game-changer, offering ultra-sensitive sensors that can pick up even the slightest variations in oxygen saturation. These accurate and frequent measurements allow medical professionals to have the most precise data on an examined patient “at their fingertips.”
You joined NJIT's PhD program after attending the dual degree program jointly offered by NJIT and Istanbul Technical University. Please briefly share your experience in the dual degree program and tell us what made you decide to continue to study at NJIT for a PhD.
My association with NJIT began in 2018 through the dual degree program that NJIT conducts in collaboration with Istanbul Technical University. The dual degree program offered by NJIT and ITU was a transformative experience for me. Not only did it provide me with a comprehensive academic foundation, but it also exposed me to diverse research methodologies and a multicultural academic environment. Collaborating with peers and mentors from two esteemed institutions expanded my horizons and reinforced the universal nature of scientific inquiry. The hands-on experience, coupled with the nurturing environment at NJIT, instilled in me a desire to delve deeper into my chosen field. As a result, pursuing my Ph.D. at NJIT felt like a natural progression, given the state-of-the-art facilities, accomplished faculty, and a research ecosystem that promotes innovation and discovery.
You were a prize winner in the ECE PhD Stories contest Spring 2023 "Live with Research". Please share some advice with our new PhD students who will participate this event for the first time in Fall 2023.
Participating in the ECE Ph.D. Stories contest was both insightful and rewarding. For those new to the event, it's crucial to speak from the heart and be authentic in sharing your experiences. The theme for last time was “Live with Research”, and I chose to explain how I used research methodologies while producing a podcast. While clarity in explaining research is essential, always approach your presentation as a conversation, ensuring it's engaging and relatable. Regular preparation and rehearsal can enhance your delivery, and seeking feedback for your presentation and materials allows for valuable refinements. Above all, remember that the contest is about sharing, learning, and growing, so cherish every step of the process.