Education
- Ph.D. in Computer Science, Georgia State University, USA (2025)
Dissertation: Time Permutation Approaches to Self-Supervised Dynamic Neuroimaging - Ph.D. Coursework in Robotics and Intelligent Machine Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Pakistan (2019)
- M.S. in Software Engineering, NUST, Pakistan (2017)
Thesis: Improved Predictive Models for Thoracic Surgery using Data Mining Techniques - B.S. in Software Engineering, University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan (2014)
Final Year Project: Design and Development of Prototype Computed Tomography Machine
Biography
Dr. Zafar Iqbal is a computational neuroscientist and machine learning researcher with expertise in fMRI data analysis, self-supervised learning, and interpretable AI. He earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science from Georgia State University, where he developed a pioneering “Time Reversal” pre-training methodology for modeling temporal neuroimaging data, enhancing performance on biomedical datasets with limited samples.
His research bridges the gap between computational neuroscience and AI, with a strong emphasis on model transparency and real-world applicability. He has published in leading venues including IEEE IJCNN, Brain Sciences, and High-Confidence Computing, and has presented at prestigious forums such as the Organization for Human Brain Mapping and ICCABS.
Dr. Iqbal has taught courses in Machine Learning, Computer Networks, and Digital Logic & Design at Georgia State University, Karakorum International University, and other institutions. His teaching integrates theoretical foundations with hands-on application, fostering analytical thinking and problem-solving skills in his students.
Areas of Specialization
- fMRI Data Analysis & Computational Modeling
- Self-Supervised Learning & Model Interpretability
- Artificial Intelligence in Neuroscience
Areas of Competence
- Machine Learning Algorithms & Applications
- Statistical Modeling & Data Mining
- Digital Logic & Computer Networks
Professional Appointments
- Graduate Research Assistant, Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science (TReNDS), Georgia State University, USA (2019–2025)
- Visiting Lecturer, Georgia State University, USA (2024–2025)
- Visiting Lecturer, Karakorum International University, Pakistan (2017)
- Software Developer (Trainee), Oil & Gas Development Company Limited, Pakistan (2016–2017)
Teaching & Academic Contributions
- Designed and delivered graduate and undergraduate courses in Machine Learning, Computer Networks, and Digital Logic.
- Supervised semester-long student projects, fostering skills in research, presentation, and application of theory.
- Integrated research-led teaching, introducing students to current AI and neuroscience challenges.
Research & Industry Collaborations
- Time Reversal-based fMRI Analysis – TReNDS, Georgia State University
- Federated Transfer Learning in Vehicular Networks – University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
- Digital Twin-Based Cardiac Arrest Prediction – ICCABS Collaborative Network
Selected Publications
- Iqbal, Z., et al., “Self-Supervised Mental Disorder Classifiers via Time Reversal,” IJCNN, 2023.
- Iqbal, Z., et al., “Explainable Self-Supervised Dynamic Neuroimaging Using Time Reversal,” Brain Sciences, 2025.
- Zia, Q., et al., “Hierarchical Federated Transfer Learning in Digital Twin-based Vehicular Networks,” High-Confidence Computing, 2025.
Professional Service & Affiliations
- Reviewer for IEEE and related scientific conferences.
- Conference presenter at IJCNN, OHBM, ICCABS, and BHI.
Teaching Philosophy
Dr. Iqbal emphasizes a balance between theoretical depth and practical relevance. He believes in active student engagement through problem-solving, coding exercises, and research-led discussions, preparing students to apply AI and data science methods to interdisciplinary challenges.
Languages
- English (Fluent)
- Urdu (Native)
- Shina (Native)
- Punjabi (Conversational)
- Hindi (Conversational)
