Overview
Introduction / Current Role
Aveen Najm is a passionate researcher and educator in computer science with a background in software engineering and expertise in robotics, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies. She is experienced in developing and delivering undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, supervising research projects, and embedding real-world case studies into learning. Recognised with the Dave Leonard Rising Star Award, Aveen Najm progressed directly from a First-Class BSc (Hons) in Computer Science to doctoral research, reflecting both academic excellence and commitment to innovation.
Education / Qualifications
Aveen Najm is in the final stages of completing a PhD in Robotics and Computer Science at Cardiff Metropolitan University, based within the EUREKA Robotics Centre at the Cardiff School of Technologies. Her doctoral research, Intelligent Robot for Supporting Children with Cleft Lip and Palate (CLP) in Speech Therapy Sessions, explores the use of intelligent robots as innovative tools to support and enhance the work of Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs), with the overarching aim of developing a novel model to engage children with CLP in therapy.
She holds a First-Class Bachelor of Science with Honours in Computer Science from Cardiff Metropolitan University, where she was also awarded the Dave Leonard Rising Star Award. This academic foundation has supported both her teaching career and doctoral research.
Research Interests
Aveen Najm’s research interests lie in robotics for healthcare applications, particularly in hospitals, care homes, and universities, with an emphasis on machine learning and human-centred design. Her work has been supported by the Welsh Government, the British Council, and the Alan Turing Institute.
A major achievement in this area was leading the set-up, testing, and deployment of the first Spark UVC Disinfection Robot in Wales, where she was responsible for technical integration, evaluation, and training healthcare assistants in its use. As a Research Assistant within the EUREKA Robotics Centre, she also contributed to the Affordable and Novel Human-Centred Design Far-UV Project for healthcare disinfection. This included the development and piloting of the Far-UV Disinfection Robot and the Spark UVC Disinfection Robot in collaboration with healthcare partners.
Her responsibilities have encompassed data management, workflow optimisation, implementation of new research standards, and stakeholder reporting. Notably, she achieved cost reductions through process improvements and contributed to impactful applied robotics for healthcare safety.
Teaching / Supervision
Since 2022, Aveen Najm has served as an Associate Tutor at the Cardiff School of Technologies, Cardiff Metropolitan University. Teaches across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Computer Science and Software Engineering, contributing to the School’s teaching, research, and innovation in emerging technologies.
Responsibilities include curriculum design, module leadership, delivering lectures, labs, and workshops, and embedding practical scenarios and industry standards into the curriculum. She has supervised a significant number of undergraduate and postgraduate research projects, designed and assessed coursework and examinations, and provided constructive feedback to support student success.