Lakshmanan Nataraj is an AI researcher and technology leader who will lead the IFMR AI Center at Krea University. He brings over 15 years of experience across artificial intelligence, signal processing, cybersecurity, and computer vision, with a focus on developing innovative approaches to complex real-world problems and translating research into practical technologies.
His pioneering work on malware visualization has had a significant impact on cybersecurity research, while his broader contributions span deepfake detection, media forensics, and satellite image authentication. His research has resulted in over 25+ publications, 5,000+ citations, and 8 US patents. He has served as PI/Co-PI on major U.S. government research programs funded by DARPA, ONR, and NGA, including contributions to the DARPA MediFor program on media integrity. He was recognised as a Dagstuhl Scholar in 2022 and has held research and senior technical roles in both academic and industry settings.
At IFMR AI Center, Lakshmanan will bring together his experience in AI research, technology development, and interdisciplinary collaboration to advance impactful AI initiatives. His current interests include AI for Science, AI adoption, and AI safety. He has also been actively involved in research outreach and science communication through national initiatives with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), including the Saral AI Democratising Research Initiative and the MAHA AI for Science and Engineering program.