Winner. Scientist of the Year 2025

Naveen Kumar Bangalore Ramaiah

Academic title, degree: Master's
Fields of science: Advanced Image Processing and Artificial Intelligence
Research interest: Perception, 3D Computer Vision, Autonomous Systems, Pattern Recognition, Stereo Matching
Career Development: Senior
Organization: HP Inc.
Position: Senior Camera/Perception Engineer
City: Austin, Texas
Country: USA

Naveen Kumar Bangalore Ramaiah is an accomplished scientist specializing in Advanced Image Processing and Artificial Intelligence. He currently serves as a Senior Camera/Perception Engineer at HP Inc., where he leads the development of next-generation smart conferencing systems. His work focuses on enabling 360° viewing, AI-powered intelligent framing, and seamless multi-camera integration, driving innovation in hybrid meeting environments and shaping the future of digital collaboration.

Naveen’s career reflects a profound commitment to pushing the boundaries of perception technologies. He began his professional journey as a Software Engineer at KPIT Cummins, where he developed advanced computer vision algorithms for pedestrian detection utilizing near-infrared (NIR) cameras. His contributions significantly strengthened the safety features of automotive perception systems, setting the foundation for a career centered on engineering impactful, real-world solutions.

He further honed his expertise at San Jose State University, specializing in image processing, feature extraction, and matching. This rigorous academic training enabled him to make substantial contributions as a Researcher at Hitachi America Ltd., where he focused on stereo vision and AI-driven perception for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Autonomous Driving (AD). During this tenure, Naveen developed sophisticated vision-based sensing solutions capable of detecting critical road obstacles such as potholes and debris. His work was successfully integrated into commercial vehicles, directly improving road safety and ride quality.

In addition to obstacle detection, Naveen’s research extended into smart sensing and multimodal sensor fusion, incorporating LiDAR, radar, visible light, and thermal imaging technologies. His innovations addressed the complex challenges posed by adverse weather conditions, enhancing the reliability, safety, and scalability of autonomous systems and connected vehicles (V2X). His groundbreaking research was showcased at CES 2019 through a prototype vehicle equipped with his perception system, earning attention from leading automotive manufacturers, including GM, Ford, and Nissan. His expertise was further recognized when he was invited as a panelist at the WCX™ World Congress Experience Digital Summit in 2021 to discuss the future of ADAS and vehicle safety.

Today, at HP Inc., Naveen continues to drive technological advancements by developing intelligent vision systems that solve real-world challenges in video conferencing and remote collaboration. His professional journey exemplifies a rare blend of technical depth, innovative thinking, and a vision for transforming user experiences through engineering excellence.

Naveen Kumar Bangalore Ramaiah’s contributions to engineering and technology are widely recognized and celebrated. He is the recipient of the International Best Researcher Award and the International Research Star Award, honors conferred by the Indian government for his outstanding achievements in the field of Computer Vision.

He is a prolific inventor with five granted patents across the United States, Japan, and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in the areas of multi-camera perception for autonomous vehicles. His innovations have been widely cited by industry leaders, including Ford, Volvo, and Subaru, underlining their significance and impact in enhancing automotive safety and intelligent navigation. These patents have notably contributed to the advancement of perception technologies critical for detecting hazardous road conditions and improving route planning through integrated sensor observation zones.

In addition to his contributions to the automotive sector, Naveen has pioneered innovations in intelligent video conferencing systems. He holds a pending WIPO patent that introduces an AI-based solution for dynamic video stream selection. This technology identifies participants across multiple cameras, analyzes their poses, ranks the available streams, and seamlessly switches to the optimal view, enhancing the overall quality and intelligence of hybrid meetings.

Naveen’s research work is also well-represented in leading scientific journals, such as those published by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and the Institute of Physics (IOP), with a particular focus on perception systems and the application of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs).

Through a distinguished career marked by a series of impactful contributions, Naveen Kumar Bangalore Ramaiah has established himself as a leading figure in the fields of Advanced Image Processing and Artificial Intelligence, consistently demonstrating excellence in engineering, research, and technological innovation.