Benjamin Fonooni

Benjamin Fonooni, Ph.D.

I earned my Ph.D. in Cognitive Robotics at Umeå University, Sweden, where my doctoral research was conducted within the framework of the Marie Curie Initial Training Network INTeractive RObotics (INTRO) as an Early Stage Researcher. My primary research focus centered on the development of robot learning techniques derived from Learning from Demonstration and Imitation, leveraging various facets of human-robot interaction. My academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and culminated in a Master's degree in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, awarded in 2003 and 2006, respectively. During my undergraduate studies, I honed my programming and problem-solving skills, ultimately leading to the design and implementation of the first Iranian intelligent humanoid robot (Firatelloid).

Over the past two decades, I have had the privilege of collaborating with dynamic and accomplished teams, which have profoundly shaped my professional trajectory. My roles have spanned from full-stack developer and technical manager to researcher, primarily within the domains of AI and Robotics. Additionally, I have had the honor of instructing and mentoring recent graduates from esteemed institutions in Canada and the United States. My instructional responsibilities encompassed contemporary programming paradigms, prevalent enterprise application development frameworks, industry-standard software development practices, the construction of AI-based solutions, and the cultivation of professional ethics.

Currently, I serve as the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of AiZtech Labs Inc. Our company pioneers a groundbreaking category of digital health technology known as Selfie Diagnostics, a smartphone-based platform capable of screening various medical conditions by analyzing the eye and facial topography solely through the smartphone's camera. Our innovative solution necessitates no chemical agents or specialized equipment.

During my leisure hours, you may find me immersed in the acquisition of new languages or engaged in playing musical instruments, such as the Setar, Piano, or Flute, among others. Additionally, I possess a deep-seated passion for music composition, having successfully produced three albums to date.