Dr Phyo Phyo San
Doctor of Philosophy, 2013
Dr Phyo Phyo San is a globally recognised expert in artificial intelligence and data science, with a career spanning over 15 years across defence, energy, healthcare, and finance. As Lead Research Scientist at the Australian Government, she leads the Machine Learning and Edge Analytics team, developing AI-enabled solutions for Maritime Autonomy and national defence capability.
My name is Dr Phyo Phyo San and I graduated from UTS in 2013. I got my PhD with a specialization in AI and machine learning.
I feel very proud about getting this international award. It gave me a moment to pause and thinking about my journey from my home country to Singapore until Australia where I am now.
I had learned a lot of lesson in UTS. I got more confident when I have to work with people from different cultural background. After I graduated from UTS, I feel like the world is very welcoming to me. I was trained not only to concentrate on my research experience but also I got opportunity to learn soft skills as well. This experience actually helped shape me and allow me to contribute in my work community.
To my fellow UTS international alumni, don't be afraid uh to take a new challenge. It is a great opportunity for you. At the same time, they will get a kind of full energy like to push yourself beyond the limit and I think this is all the way to the success.
Her work applies machine learning to real-time sensor data, predictive maintenance, fraud detection, solar energy optimization, and COVID-19 treatment rollouts. These innovations have supported strategic national objectives and improved operational performance across sectors. Her academic research, including her PhD from UTS, has earned over 2,500 citations and an h-index of 14, demonstrating her global impact and commitment to high-impact, rigorous science.
Dr Phyo’s doctoral research at UTS focused on computational intelligence and biomedical applications, including groundbreaking work in hypoglycaemia monitoring systems. Her research advanced the development of intelligent algorithms to detect and predict hypoglycaemic events, improved patient safety, and enhanced quality of life for individuals with diabetes. Her career includes leadership roles at A*STAR Singapore, Standard Chartered Bank, Suncorp Group, MSD Pharmaceutical, and Essential Energy, where she delivered transformative AI solutions tailored to each sector’s unique challenges. From fraud detection and customer analytics to energy grid optimisation and pharmaceutical forecasting, her work consistently bridges technical innovation with strategic outcomes.
Dr Phyo is also a dedicated mentor and educator. She has supported teaching at UTS, led internal training programs, and contributed to Defence STEM initiatives, helping shape the next generation of AI professionals.
With courage, determination, and the unwavering support of UTS, I turned every challenge into an opportunity — fulfilling my dream, transforming my research into reality, and shaping the person I am today.