Shyalan Ramesh has always been passionate about technology and problem-solving.
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) student’s research is focused on designing and building swarm robotic systems for underwater exploration.
“Swarm robotics enables large scale and efficient tasks like monitoring and protecting coral reefs, collecting marine environmental data, and supporting sustainable ocean management,” he explains.
“I focus on bio-inspired algorithms and engineering platforms that allow groups of autonomous underwater vehicles to coordinate and operate as a swarm. This approach is important because it overcomes the challenges of single robot missions, such as limited communication, navigation and endurance.”
Throughout his degree, Shyalan has gained extensive practical experience, including a six-month placement at Fraunhofer IESE in Kaiserslautern, Germany.
“During the placement, I got real-world experience as a Software Engineer Intern by working on applied research and development projects. It gave me the opportunity to contribute to innovative software solutions, experience an international workplace, and apply the skills I had developed at La Trobe in a professional and research driven environment.”
Closer to home, Shyalan leads the on-campus Google Developer Group and played a leadership role in organising the School’s 2025 Innovation Sprint.
When he graduates, he hopes to continue into research and pursue a PhD in areas such as swarm robotics and AI.
“I aim to build a career that combines research with industry practice, using my experience in teaching, international internships, and research projects to create solutions with real impact.”
