Dr. Abhishek Appaji

Integrating data-driven intelligence into mental healthcare represents a pivotal shift from subjective observation to objective, non-invasive diagnostic precision. By leveraging multimodal signal processing and machine learning, my research focuses on extracting clinically relevant biomarkers from complex datasets—such as retinal imaging — to enhance early detection and longitudinal monitoring. At the HAI Conclave 2026, I will discuss how these computational frameworks can be optimized for clinical interpretation, transforming mental health assessment from a reactive process into a proactive, personalized intervention strategy. This approach not only improves diagnostic accuracy for diverse populations but also establishes a scalable foundation for accessible healthcare through technology-mediated intelligence.

Biography:

Dr. Abhishek Appaji, a passionate educator and researcher, currently serving as Professor at B.M.S. College of Engineering, Bengaluru. He is also serving as Guest faculty at Maastricht University, the Netherlands. He is a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Global Entrepreneurship Bootcamp specializing in new ventures leadership. He obtained his Bachelor of Engineering in Medical Electronics with University Rank from BMSCE, Masters of Technology in Information Technology, and a Masters of Engineering (M.E) in Bioinformatics from University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering, Bengaluru. His Ph.D. was in Mental Health and Neurosciences from Maastricht University, the Netherlands which received the best thesis award and his postdoctoral fellowship from Ohio State University, USA. Abhishek is a Senior Member of IEEE and has held various volunteering positions within IEEE. Currently, he is the Treasurer of the IEEE Education Society, and Chair, IEEE Computer Society Bangalore Chapter. He is also in MGA, EAB and Global Conference committees of IEEE. Abhishek has received various grants from Indian agencies like DST, DBT, BIRAC, and from abroad. Abhishek has also worked as a research associate at the Centre for Nanoscience and Engineering (CeNSE), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. He has a patent granted in Medtech Space. He has more than 100 International/National journal publications and conferences to his credit. He has been a part of more than 200+ Invited expert talks at various conferences, forums, and events. He has renowned laurels including IEEE International Best Paper Award in Malaysia, MGH CamTech Jugadathon Awards, Best Nodal Coordinator award, Gandhian Young Technological Innovation Award at Rastrapathy Bhavan (President of India House) New Delhi, Elderly care Hackathon (the Netherlands), Winner of Class 5 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Global Entrepreneurship Bootcamp, IEEE MGA Young Professional Achievement Award, R10 YP achievement award, DST Inspire Award, IEEE CS Chief of Disruption Award, IEEE SPS Bangalore Outstanding Award, IUCEE TLC Award, IEEE MGA Achievement Award, etc. Recently he was awarded with 2026 Theodore W Hissey Young Professionals Award from IEEE Board of Directors. His research interest includes Neuroscience, AI, Deep Learning and Entrepreneurship.

Address:Professor, B.M.S. College of Engineering, , Bengaluru, Karnataka, India