PhD candidate Hasindu Gamaarachchi has been passionate about computer science and engineering since he was a teenager. He is now three years into his research combining his enthusiasm for biology and computer engineering.
Profile
I chose UNSW mainly due to the very positive recommendations from CSE alumni about the embedded systems research group and the reputation of my supervisor, Professor Sri Parameswaran. Also, Sydney's climate (no sub-zero temperatures!) and UNSW's campus location were an added plus.
My thesis project is architecture-aware performance optimisation of compute and memory intensive DNA analysis software. The aim of the project is to optimise the associated DNA analysis algorithms and data structures, that were originally developed for high-performance computers, to a level that allows them to run on lightweight embedded systems.
I have a strong interest in biology as much as for computer engineering. This multi-disciplinary project which is an overlap in biological DNA analysis and hardcore computer engineering was an ideal match for me. Additionally, this project has the potential to change the direction of healthcare through the provision of DNA analysis based medical diagnostic tests in-the-field and point-of-care.
I hope to achieve a fully-fledged prototype of a portable embedded system capable of processing third-generation nanopore DNA data in-the-field (remote locations without the Internet) or point-of-care (hospitals or clinics). The prototype will include both the hardware and software that performs the analysis.
My goal after studying is to pursue an impactful research career in the same research area, an overlap of DNA analysis and computer engineering fields, and to take part in interesting projects that intrigue me.
If you are interested in learning more about this research or other projects please contact the School of Computer Science and Engineering.