In a remarkable feat that has placed the Philippines on the global academic map, Dr. Alexander Co Abad, a gifted computer scientist from the Cordillera region, has secured the second spot in the prestigious Queen Mary UK Best PhD in Robotics Award. This achievement is not just a personal victory for Dr. Abad but also a historic moment, as he becomes the first Filipino and specifically a Cordilleran to earn such a high rank in the competition's storied history.
Breaking New Ground in Robotics
Dr. Abad's groundbreaking research, titled "Fine-grained Haptics: Sensing and Actuating Haptic Primary Colors," dives deep into the development of an innovative sensor technology. This sensor stands to revolutionize how humans interact with machines, particularly in the realms of telemedicine and telerobotics. The possibilities it opens up for enhancing remote medical procedures and robotic handling are vast and varied, promising to transform these fields in profound ways.
"After years of dedication, it's an honor to see our work recognized on such a prestigious platform," Dr. Abad reflects on his achievement. "This award is not just for me but for everyone who believes in pushing the boundaries of what's possible in robotics and technology."
The Journey of a Lifetime
Dr. Abad's path to success began with his passion for science and innovation. He received his B.S. degree in electronics and communications engineering (ECE) from Saint Louis University in Baguio City in 2002, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors in the field of computer science and informatics.
The support and guidance from his mentor, Dr. Anuradha Ranasinghe from the School of Maths, Computer Science, and Engineering, alongside the invaluable assistance from De La Salle University in Manila, were pivotal in his journey. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering at De La Salle University, Dr. Abad is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and the relentless pursuit of one's dreams.
A Beacon of Inspiration
Dr. Abad's story is a powerful motivator for aspiring inventors and scientists worldwide. His message to dream big and tirelessly work towards those dreams resonates deeply, especially in his heartfelt call to his fellow Filipinos and the youth:
"Mangarap tayo! Hindi iyan kaya ng mga hayop o ng mga robot kahit pa ng mga advanced AI! We need to dream big and do our best to fulfill that dream! Noong elementary pa lang ako ay gusto ko na maging scientist gaya nina Newton, Edison, at Einstein. Pangarap ko makagawa ng munting bagay na makakatulong sa tao. Mag-aral tayo maigi at magsumikap para matupad ang ating mga pangarap."
The Queen Mary UK Best PhD in Robotics Award
The competition, sponsored by the Center for Advanced Robotics at Queen Mary, University of London, is a beacon of excellence in the robotics community. Open to doctoral students from across the United Kingdom, it evaluates submissions through a rigorous process conducted by a panel of international experts in robotics. Dr. Abad's achievement in this arena underscores the significance of his research and its potential impact on future technologies.
A Journey of Perseverance and Excellence
Dr. Alexander Abad's remarkable achievement from envisioning a career in science to making significant strides in robotics illustrates the profound impact of persistence, innovation, and the quest for excellence. His narrative transcends technological progress, celebrating the human spirit's capacity to envision and realize the extraordinary. As Dr. Abad continues to inspire and lead in his domain, his contributions lay a solid foundation for future innovations, promising to redefine our engagement with technology in healthcare and beyond.
