Miltos Petridis Fellowship

Overview

The Miltos Petridis Fellowship for Research and Innovation (MPFRI) is a prestigious fellowship established to honor the memory of Professor Miltos Petridis, a distinguished academic and researcher known for his groundbreaking contributions to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computer Science. Prof. Petridis’s career was marked by his dedication to advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and mentoring future generations of researchers. This fellowship will focus on supporting the UK-INDIA Knowledge Exchange Programme, designed specifically for Visiting Post-Doctoral Research Fellows.

This fellowship aims to continue his legacy by supporting researchers engaged in cutting-edge projects that reflect Prof. Petridis’s passion for solving real-world problems through AI, data science, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The MPFRI provides funding, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities to researchers committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and knowledge in ways that have the potential for significant societal impact.

This fellowship was initiated by Dr. Mithileysh Sathiyanarayanan, Scientist & CEO of MIT Square, a former research collaborator of Prof. Miltos Petridis, to honor his mentor's memory and ensure that his passion for research and innovation continues to shape the future. The fellowship was officially launched on World Teacher's Day (5th October 2024). Through this fellowship, Dr. Mithileysh aims to support exceptional researchers who share Prof. Miltos’s dedication to advancing knowledge and making meaningful contributions to society. 

About Prof. Miltos Petridis (15 August 1961 - 12 April 2020)

Prof. Miltos Petridis was a highly respected professor and Head of the Department (Computer Science) at Middlesex University, UK, renowned for his groundbreaking work in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Mining, and Knowledge-Based Systems. Over a distinguished career, he made lasting contributions to the fields of AI and Computer Science, driving innovation through both his research and teaching. Prof. MIltos was formerly a Head of the School of Computing, Maths & Engineering at the University of Brighton, UK.

Prof. Petridis was deeply committed to academic excellence and was known for his ability to inspire and mentor students and colleagues alike. His work was not only academically influential but also had significant practical applications, bridging the gap between theory and real-world solutions. He was an advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration and was dedicated to advancing AI research in ways that would benefit society.

Sadly, Prof. Petridis passed away due to complications from COVID-19, leaving behind a legacy of intellectual rigor, innovation, and generosity of spirit. His contributions to the academic community, particularly in AI and related technologies, continue to inspire researchers and students. The impact of his work lives on through the many individuals he mentored and the advancements he made in his field.

Prof. Petridis is remembered not only for his academic achievements but also for his warmth, dedication, and passion for fostering the growth of future generations of scholars. Dr. Yvonne Fryer, wife of Prof. Petridis, a mathematics lecturer at the University of Greenwich, UK, encourages young researchers to achieve great heights. 

Fellowship Purpose

This fellowship is for visiting researchers from India who like to carry out research in the UK. The fellowship aims to honour Prof Miltos's work by supporting exceptional researchers who are pursuing innovative projects that have the potential to impact society, science, and technology. Through the fellowship, we hope to empower talented scholars who embody the spirit of curiosity, perseverance, and innovation that Prof. Miltos so passionately championed.

The Miltos Petridis Fellowship for Research and Innovation (MPFRI) was created to:

• Support UK-INDIA Collaboration: Providing financial support to Indian researchers working on innovative projects to visit the UK and present their work either in conferences, symposiums, and/or at academic institutions. 

• Facilitate Groundbreaking Research: Providing technical support to researchers working on innovative projects with the potential to make significant contributions to their field.

• Encourage Innovation: Fostering creative thinking and groundbreaking solutions to global challenges, in line with Prof. Miltos’s vision for the future of research.

• Promote Mentorship and Collaboration: Honouring Prof. Miltos’s dedication to mentoring young researchers by providing mentorship opportunities and encouraging collaboration within the research community.

Eligibility Criteria for Researchers

To be eligible for the MPFRI, applicants must:

• Be actively pursuing research after PhD in any technology-based domain. 

• Must be an Indian Citizen residing in India who is keen to carry out research in the UK.

• Demonstrate a commitment to innovation and impactful research that aligns with Prof. Miltos’s legacy.

• Show a proven record of academic excellence and leadership within their field.

Fellows are expected to uphold the values that Prof. Miltos held dear: intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to advancing knowledge for the benefit of society.

Expected Outcomes from Researchers

The applicants are expected to deliver the following outcomes:

• Innovative Research: Researchers will be expected to produce original research that demonstrates creativity, rigor, and the potential to contribute to significant advancements in their respective fields.

• Impactful Publications: Fellows should aim to publish their findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals/conferences, ensuring that their work reaches a wide audience and makes a lasting contribution to the global knowledge base.

• Practical Applications: Wherever possible, the research should have practical implications that can address real-world challenges and bring about societal or technological advancements.

By achieving these outcomes, fellows will not only honor the memory of Prof. Miltos Petridis but will also contribute to his vision of a future where research and innovation improve the lives of people around the world.

Fellowship Benefits

Recipients of the MPFRI will receive:

• Research Funding: Financial support to help advance their research project. The funds will cover the following - flights, accommodation, conference registration fees, journal APC charges, and/or patent filing costs. 

• Mentorship: Access to a network of esteemed scholars and experts who will provide guidance and mentorship.

• Collaboration Opportunities: Opportunities to collaborate with other researchers and institutions to enhance the impact of their work.

• Recognition: Recipients will be recognized for their contribution to advancing knowledge, with their work showcased on a global platform.

(Note: UK/India tax rules may impact the fellowship grants).

How to Apply (for researchers)

The Miltos Petridis Fellowship for Research and Innovation (MPFRI) application process is straightforward and open to qualified candidates from India. Please email us directly. 

How to Become a Supervisor or Mentor

To become a supervisor/mentor for the Miltos Petridis Fellowship for Research and Innovation (MPFRI) is straightforward and open to qualified academicians from the UK. Please email us directly. 

Application Requirements for Researchers:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) with publication details.

• A research proposal outlining the project’s objectives, methodology, and potential impact.

• A personal statement reflecting on how your work aligns with Prof. Miltos’s values and contributions to the field.

• Letters of recommendation from academic mentors or professionals who can recommend your application.

For more information on the application process and deadlines, please email the contact details provided below. 

Support the Fellowship

The MPFRI is made possible through the Raj Square Charity Foundation, which collaborates closely with many academic institutions in India. If you would like to contribute to the fellowship and help foster the next generation of scholars, please email us.

Contact Us

For inquiries regarding the Miltos Petridis Fellowship for Research and Innovation (MPFRI), please contact us at:

• Email: director@raiseglobe.org / info.raiseglobe@gmail.com

• Phone: +44 7459 758879

GALLERY