MD. Sameer Iqbal Chowdhury

MD. Sameer Iqbal Chowdhury

Doctoral Student

Current Position: Doctoral Instructional Assistant, CS 2308 (Foundations of Computer Science II) - Fall 2025
Instructor: Dr. Jill M. Seaman

Research Focus: Application Deep Learning in Intelligent Sensing and Autonomous Navigation for Robotics

Elevator Pitch

Hey! I am a recent graduate in Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. I have passion for advancing autonomous robotic systems through the application of novel deep learning approaches. My expertise lies in integrating sophisticated sensing technologies with intelligent navigation algorithms to create more capable and reliable robotic systems. I'm currently a Doctoral student at Texas State University and serving as a Doctoral Instructional Assistant. I aim to contribute to the next generation of autonomous robots that can perceive, learn, and adapt to complex real-world environments.

Quick Overview

Biography

Professional Background

As a recent graduate in Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering from the University of Dhaka, I have developed a strong foundation in automated and industrial systems. My academic journey has been complemented by practical experience in IoT-based systems, sensor integration, and machine learning applications in robotics.

Texas State University

Texas State University Campus

I'm currently a Doctoral Student in the Department of Computer Science at Texas State University under the supervision of Dr. Tsz-Chiu Au, and I'm also a Doctoral Instructional Assistant for the CS 2308 (Fundamentals of Computer Science II) course under Dr. Jill M. Seaman for Fall 2025, where I help students understand fundamental computer science concepts while continuing to develop my own research interests.

Research Philosophy

My research focuses on the intersection of deep learning and robotics, specifically targeting improvements in sensing capabilities and autonomous navigation. I believe that the future of robotics lies in creating systems that can not only perceive their environment accurately but also learn and adapt their navigation strategies based on experience.

Technical Expertise

My expertise spans a wide array of sensors, actuation systems, microcontrollers, and single-board computers. I am also deeply interested in Industrial IoT (IIoT) and its transformative potential in industrial automation.

Future Goals

I aim to pursue graduate studies to further advance my knowledge in deep learning applications for robotics and make meaningful contributions to autonomous navigation systems. My goal is to develop more intelligent, adaptive robotic systems that can operate effectively in complex, dynamic environments.

Research Interests

Deep Learning in Robotic Sensing

My primary research interest focuses on leveraging deep learning techniques to enhance robotic sensing capabilities. This includes developing neural networks that can process multi-modal sensor data to create more accurate and robust environmental perception systems.

Key Areas:

  • Computer vision for object detection and recognition in robotic applications
  • Sensor fusion using deep learning for improved environmental understanding
  • Real-time processing of sensory data for autonomous systems
  • Adaptive sensing systems that can learn from environmental changes

Autonomous Navigation Systems

I am particularly interested in developing intelligent navigation systems that combine traditional path planning with modern deep learning approaches to create more adaptive and efficient autonomous robots.

Research Focus Areas:

  • Deep reinforcement learning for path planning and navigation
  • SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) using neural networks
  • Obstacle avoidance using predictive models
  • Multi-robot coordination and swarm navigation

Industrial IoT and Smart Manufacturing

Building on my background in IoT systems, I am exploring how deep learning can enhance Industrial IoT applications, particularly in smart manufacturing and automated quality control systems.

Areas of Interest:

  • Predictive maintenance using sensor data and machine learning
  • Quality control automation using computer vision
  • Smart factory optimization through intelligent sensor networks
  • Edge computing for real-time industrial applications

Current Research Activities

Currently working as a remote Research Assistant on the "Ma (Mother) Mental Health: Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Detection of Perinatal Depression" project at the University of Dhaka, where I manage multimodal data collection and curation for AI-based analysis. At this time, I am contributing towards the writing of a scientific paper for the work to be published in a high-impact journal.

Future Research Directions

I am particularly interested in pursuing doctoral research that combines deep learning with sensing technologies and practical robotic applications, focusing on creating more intelligent and adaptive autonomous systems for both industrial and service robotics applications.

Teaching Experience

Teaching Assistant - CS 2308 (Foundations of Computer Science II)

Institution: Texas State University
Semester: Fall 2025
Instructor: Dr. Jill M. Seaman

Responsibilities:

  • Assist students with programming assignments and course material
  • Hold office hours to provide one-on-one support
  • Help maintain course materials and resources

Teaching Philosophy

I believe in making complex technical concepts accessible through practical examples and hands-on learning. My approach focuses on helping students understand not just the "how" but also the "why" behind programming concepts, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Areas of Expertise in Teaching

Student Feedback Approach

I emphasize providing constructive, specific feedback that helps students improve their programming skills while building confidence. I encourage questions and create a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from them.

Service & Extra-Curricular Activities

Leadership Activities

Chair - IEEE Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering Student Branch

Institution: University of Dhaka
Duration: January 2023 - April 2024

Leadership Contributions:

  • Organized several workshops and interactive sessions (both online and in-person)
  • Coordinated industry expert experience-sharing sessions
  • Led student branch activities and member engagement initiatives
  • Developed professional development programs for engineering students

Volunteer Activities

Mentor - Bangladesh Robot Olympiad (BdRO)

Duration: September 2019 - September 2022

Volunteer Contributions:

  • Conducted robotics workshops in multiple high schools nationwide
  • Developed engaging quizzes and educational content for BdRO participants
  • Volunteered to organize national rounds of the 2nd to 5th editions of the BdRO
  • Mentored high school students in robotics concepts and competition preparation

Community Involvement

I believe in giving back to the academic and professional community through research collaboration, student mentorship, and knowledge sharing. My service activities reflect my commitment to advancing both education and research in robotics and artificial intelligence.

Future Service Goals

I aim to expand my service contributions through:

Projects

IoT-enabled Scalable Closed Hydroponics System with Smart Parameter Control

Duration: January 2023 - January 2024
Type: Undergraduate Thesis Project
Funding: ICT Division under the ICT Innovation Fund

IoT Hydroponics System Setup
Overall system setup before the first experiment
System Block Diagram
Full system block diagram
Lettuce Growth Results
Lettuce grown inside the system

Project Overview:

  • Designed and implemented an IoT-based scalable closed hydroponics system
  • Monitored and controlled physical parameters (pH, EC, CO2, Humidity, Temperature)
  • Utilized Arduino Nano and Arduino Mega as nodes for sensor and actuator management
  • Implemented XGBoost-based classification for independent control actions
  • Developed web-based dashboard with real-time monitoring and live video feed

Technologies Used:

  • Arduino (Nano, Mega), IoT protocols, sensor integration
  • Machine learning (XGBoost), web development
  • Data visualization and real-time monitoring systems

Status: Currently under first round of reviews at Smart Agricultural Technology journal

2 DOF Single Claw Crawler Bot using Q-learning

Duration: October 2022 - November 2022
Course: RME 3211: Intelligent Systems and Robots Lab
Type: Self-funded Lab Project

Front view of crawler bot
Front view of the 2 DOF single claw crawler bot
Top view of crawler bot
Top view of the 2 DOF single claw crawler bot

Project Details:

  • Designed and built a 2 Degree-of-Freedom single-claw crawler robot
  • Implemented Q-learning to optimize servo angle sequences for maximum displacement
  • Utilized epsilon-greedy algorithm for faster Q-learning convergence
  • Successfully demonstrated autonomous learning and movement optimization

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Reinforcement learning implementation in robotics
  • Robot kinematics and mechanical design
  • Algorithm optimization and convergence analysis

Publications

Exploring the Efficacy of NAO Robot as a Language Instructor

Authors: Ipshita Ahmed Moon, Humayra Rashid, Safayat Hasan, MD. Sameer Iqbal Chowdhury, Shifat-E-Arman, and Lafifa Jamal

Conference: 10th International Conference for Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (ICRAI), 2024

Status: Accepted and published

Abstract:

This research investigates the effectiveness of humanoid robots, specifically the NAO robot, as language instructors for Japanese language learning. The study employs a controlled experimental design comparing the NAO robot's teaching effectiveness against traditional methods including human tutors and mobile language learning applications.

My Contribution:

As a joint first author, I contributed to the experimental design, data collection methodology, and analysis of the robot's performance as a language tutor. This work demonstrates the potential of social robotics in educational applications.

Key Findings:

  • Demonstrated measurable effectiveness of NAO robot as language instructor
  • Compared performance against human tutors and digital applications
  • Identified optimal interaction patterns for robot-assisted learning
  • Contributed to understanding of social robotics in education

Papers in Review

IoT-enabled Scalable Closed Hydroponics System with Smart Parameter Control

Journal: Smart Agricultural Technology

Status: Under Review - First Round

This paper presents the complete design, implementation, and evaluation of our IoT-based hydroponics system, including machine learning integration for autonomous parameter control.

Research Impact

My research contributes to two important areas:

Future Publications

I am currently working on several research directions that will lead to future publications:

Education

B.Sc. in Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering

Institution: University of Dhaka
Duration: 2019 - 2024
CGPA: 3.36 / 4.00

Relevant Coursework:

  • Fundamentals of Mechatronics Engineering
  • Linear Algebra and Mathematical Analysis
  • Instrumentation and Measurement
  • Microcontroller and Programmable Logic Controller
  • Advanced Mechatronics Engineering
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Intelligent Systems and Robotics
  • Digital Image Processing and Robot Vision
  • Digital Signal Processing

Thesis Project:

IoT-enabled Scalable Closed Hydroponics System with Smart Parameter Control - A fully funded project that demonstrated integration of IoT, machine learning, and agricultural technology.

IGCSE Advanced Subsidiary & Advanced Level

Institution: SFX Greenherald International School
Duration: 2016 - 2018
Grades: 3 A*, 1 A, 1 B (Equivalent GPA: 5.00 / 5.00)

Subjects:

  • Advanced Level: Mathematics, Physics, Economics
  • Advanced Subsidiary Level: Further Mathematics, Chemistry

IGCSE Ordinary Level

Institution: Sunnydale School
Duration: 2015 - 2016
Grades: 4 A*, 4 A (Equivalent GPA: 5.00 / 5.00)

Subjects:

  • Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology
  • English Language, Economics, Accounting, ICT

Academic Skills Developed

Academic Achievements

Awards & Recognition

ICT Innovation Fund Grant

Awarding Body: ICT Division, Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, People's Republic of Bangladesh
Year: 2023 (Fiscal Year 2022-2023)

Project: "Design of an IoT-enabled Scalable Closed Hydroponics System with Smart Parameter Control"

This prestigious grant recognizes innovative ICT projects with potential for significant impact. The funding enabled complete development and testing of our hydroponics system.

Highest Mark in the Country - Economics

Awarding Body: Cambridge International Examinations
Year: 2018
Achievement: Highest Mark in Bangladesh (96%) in Advanced Subsidiary Level Economics
Session: May/June 2017

This award recognizes exceptional academic performance at the national level in Cambridge International Examinations.

The Daily Star Award for A Level

Awarding Body: The Daily Star
Year: 2018
Achievement: Obtained 3 As or better in IGCSE Advanced Level
Session: May/June 2018

Awarded for outstanding performance in Cambridge International A Level examinations, recognizing academic excellence at the highest level.

The Daily Star Award for O Level

Awarding Body: The Daily Star
Year: 2016
Achievement: Obtained 6 As or better in IGCSE Ordinary Level
Session: May/June 2016

Awarded for exceptional performance in Cambridge International O Level examinations, demonstrating consistent academic excellence from an early stage.

Contact Information

Get in Touch

Email: vsj23@txstate.edu

Phone: (+1) 737-213-7648

Location: San Marcos, Texas, USA

Academic Affiliation

Institution: Texas State University (Current TA Position)

Department: Computer Science

Current Position: Doctoral Student and Doctoral Instructional Assistant for Fall 2025

Supervisor: Dr. Tsz-Chiu Au

Research Collaboration

Previous Institution: University of Dhaka

Research Area: AI-Enabled Detection of Perinatal Depression

Status: Ongoing collaboration (December 2023 - Present)

Professional Profiles

Areas of Interest for Collaboration

  • Deep Learning in Robotics
  • Autonomous Navigation Systems
  • Sensor Fusion and Multi-modal Perception

Available for

  • Research collaboration and joint projects
  • Industry partnerships in robotics and IoT
  • Technical consulting in automation and robotics

Response Time

I typically respond to emails within 24-48 hours. For urgent matters, please indicate "URGENT" in the subject line.

Office Hours (Teaching Assistant)

As a Teaching Assistant for CS 2308, I hold regular office hours on Tuesdays (1:30 PM to 4:30 PM) to assist students. Please contact me via email to schedule appointments or check current office hours.