Manisha Dubey

Research Associate in Generative Modelling of Human Behaviour

I am a postdoctoral research associate at Institute of Perception, Action and Behaviour in School of Informatics and College of Science and Engineering at University of Edinburgh. My research focuses on developing algorithms for machine learning and demonstrating the practical impact of these innovations in diverse applications. I have worked on a variety of methods like Bayesian techniques, deep learning, stochastic processes and graph neural networks. My research interests and experiences include Human-AI collaboration, Bayesian optimization, temporal point processes and sequential modeling. I am interested in developing methods for interdisciplinary research areas as well, where she can utilize her research knowledge of machine learning models for solving real-world challenges.

Tell us about your journey before you joined the Centre for AI in Assistive Autonomy?

Previously, I worked at the University of Manchester, where I developed models for Bayesian optimization with a human-in-the-loop perspective. Before that, I completed my PhD at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, India, on the topic ‘Improving Temporal & Spatio-Temporal Event Modeling using Hawkes Processes and Neural Networks.

What motivates you to work in this area?

I have always been intrigued by the ways human make so many decisions in everyday life – how their surroundings, past experiences, internal thoughts and so many external factors come together in shaping decisions. And generative modeling provides a powerful lens for reverse-engineering those mechanisms. Moreover, it perfectly aligns with my interest and background knowledge on probabilistic modeling and decision theory. I see human-AI collaboration has transformative potential, hence building a socially-aware AI.

What do you love about Edinburgh?

When I’m not working, I connect to friends and family. In my spare time, I usually practice yoga, go for running, cook, or read non-fiction. I also enjoy picking up new hobbies—recently, I’ve been learning to play the ukulele.