Phyo Phyo San smiling and looking at the camera

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.

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Transcript

My name is Dr Phyo Phyo San, and I graduated from UTS in 2013. I got my PhD with a specialisation in AI and machine learning. I feel very proud about getting this international award. It gives me a moment to pause and think about my journey from Myanmar, my home country, to Singapore and to Australia, where I am now. I had learned a lot of lessons at UTS. I became more confident when I had to work with people from different cultural backgrounds. After I graduated from UTS, I felt like the world was very welcoming to me. I was trained not only to concentrate on my research experience, but I also had the opportunity to learn soft skills as well. This experience actually helped shape me and allowed me to contribute in my work community. To my fellow UTS international alumni, don't be afraid to take a new challenge. It is a great opportunity for you. At the same time, you will get a kind of full energy to push yourself beyond the limit. And I think this is the way to 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."