Professor of Computer Science, Faculty Lead for AI,Digital and Cyber Physics Systems Theme
Manchester Metropolitan University
Manchester, United Kingdom
7 profile visits
Specialise AI & big data with 20+ yrs experience in academia &industry; building scalable, impactful digital solutions across sectors(e.g.agriculture, health).
Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) is one of the largest universities in the UK, with a strong international reputation for research, innovation, and societal impact. With roots dating back to 1824, MMU is ranked among the top 200 young universities worldwide and is committed to addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research and strategic partnerships. In the UK’s latest Research Excellence Framework (REF2021), 90% of its research impact was recognized as either 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent', reflecting MMU’s strong research environment and impact agenda.
Within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the AI, Digital and Cyber-Physical Systems research theme (https://www.mmu.ac.uk/about-us/faculties/science-engineering/research/themes/ai-digital-cyber-physical-systems)) brings together a multidisciplinary team of researchers working at the cutting edge of intelligent systems to deliver sustainable and ethical technological solutions for real-world challenges.
Key research areas include:
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Cybersecurity and Blockchain
• Natural Language Processing and Computer Vision
• Robotics and Autonomous Systems
• Neuromorphic Computing and Smart Infrastructure
• Internet of Things (IoT), Digital Twins, and Edge Computing
• Serious Games, Gamification, and Human-Centred Computing
The theme spans multiple sectors — including healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, energy, transport, smart cities, education, and creative industries — with research aligned to European strategic priorities such as the Green Deal, AI for Good, Next Generation Internet, and Digital Europe. The theme addresses key Horizon Europe pillars — including digital transformation, climate action, health, and inclusive society — by developing responsible, human-centred and sustainable solutions.
Manchester Met University is an experienced Horizon 2020 participant and continues to be an active partner in Horizon Europe. The University’s dedicated research and innovation support teams provide strong administrative and strategic capacity to support international collaboration and project delivery.
I am Professor of Computer Science, Faculty Lead for AI, Digital and Cyber Physical Systems, and Deputy Director of the Big Data Centre. With over 20 years of experience across academia and industry, I lead transformative research in scalable big data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Having worked in both academy and industry settings, LH specializes in developing AI-powered, big data solutions that leverage a wide range of datasets to address critical challenges across healthcare, precision agriculture, smart cities, and cybersecurity. With over 20 years of experience, as PI or Co-I, I have successfully led and managed multi-disciplinary, multi-partner projects (>24M), bridging pioneering research and real-world applications, driving significant advancements in technology.
My interdisciplinary approach bridges deep tech and domain knowledge, delivering impactful, scalable solutions with global reach. I am enthusiastic about building further partnerships under Horizon Europe to co-develop innovations that support people, planet, and prosperity.