Bin is determined to deliver translational research with real-world impact through deep engagement with industry.

Since graduating in the Charles Sturt University School of Computing, Mathematics and Engineering with a PhD in Computer Science in 2016, Bin has applied his extraordinary skills in predictive modelling, data processing, and data mining algorithms to solve multifaceted problems for business.

He did this firstly as a postdoctoral fellow in CSIRO’s data and digital specialist arm, Data61, and now as a senior lecturer and esteemed researcher in the Data Science Institute at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).

Bin has been awarded the Charles Sturt Distinguished Alumni of the Year – Research Excellence, announced as part of Charles Sturt Foundation Day on Wednesday 19 July.

This award recognises outstanding research leaders whose research is changing lives, or whose scholarly contributions have made a substantial impact in their field of research.

“Receiving this award is an extraordinary honour, affirming both my dedication to research excellence and the profound impact my work has had in the academic and industry communities,” he said.

“This prestigious accolade not only signifies the recognition of my achievements but also reinforces my commitment to fostering transformative research and inspiring future generations.

“This award fuels my drive to continue pushing boundaries, mentoring others, and making a lasting difference in the world through data analytics and machine learning.”

In his relatively young career, Bin has already earned a reputation for global leadership in his field for cutting-edge research and development (R&D) projects in partnership with diverse industries, from utilities and transport to earth sciences and sport.

He is perhaps best known for his ground-breaking work with Sydney Water, where he has analysed smart sensor data streams to save over 10,000 megalitres of water each year at a cost-saving of over $20 million.

Bin has also developed a novel water pipe failure prediction tool that has revolutionised maintenance strategies for anticipated savings of $2.6 billion over ten years.

The impact of Bin’s research on our economy, environment, and society will only continue to grow.

He is currently Chief Investigator on an array of transformative projects funded by competitive grants. These include exploring the potential of deep learning in the earth sciences, mapping tree coverage using high-resolution satellite imagery, developing a tool to unlock Australia’s landmass for carbon sequestration, and integrating leak sensing technology and leak break analytics into Sydney Water’s business-as-usual practices.

Bin has also recently had a collaborative proposal accepted by Connectivity Innovation Network to support a trailblazing PhD study on 3D flood mapping, leveraging the power of deep learning, advanced sensing techniques, sustainability, and data science to revolutionise the way we understand and respond to flood events.

Widely published in high-ranking journals, Bin also shares his research findings directly with industry through prominent industry events and trade publications.

He actively inspires other young researchers and is a dedicated mentor to research students, creating an inclusive, collaborative, and nurturing environment in which their research passions and contributions can flourish.

Bin’s research excellence has been recognised with a slew of awards, including the coveted Australian Museum Eureka Prize for Excellence in Data Science Award, AWA R&D Excellence Award (NSW), AWA Research Innovation Awards, UTS Mid-Career Researcher Capability Development Initiative Award, UTS Medal for Research Impact, and the Victorian iAwards Industrial and Primary Industries Merit.

He was also a finalist for the AWA Young Water Professional of the Year Award 2021-22 and for Best Paper at the 16th International Conference on Control, Automation, Robotics and Vision in 2020.

Bin continues to demonstrate admirable research leadership, collaboration, and academic rigour.

Through developing data-driven solutions to tackle critical challenges, he is contributing meaningfully to advancing scientific knowledge and enhancing the world we live in.

Read more about Charles Sturt’s amazing 2023 Alumni Award winners.

ENDS