At the head of the AI4LIFE Institute of Research and Application in Artificial Intelligence in Hanoi, Nguyễn Phi Lộ belongs to a new generation of scientists. Her research aims to put these advanced technologies at the service of health and the environment.
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Nguyễn Phi Lộ now leads one of the most advanced artificial intelligence research institutes in Vietnam. At 44 years old, the scientist dedicates her work to real challenges, from public health to the environment.
In a field still largely dominated by men, her career path is intriguing. As an associate professor, she currently serves as the acting director of the AI4LIFE Research and Application Institute attached to the Hanoi University of Science and Technology (Polytechnic University of Hanoi – HUST).
– AI in healthcare
Despite the small number of women in this field, she never makes a distinction among researchers. “AI research requires thoroughness, patience, and perseverance. In my team, the requirements are the same for everyone: only the work matters,” she emphasizes.
In recent years, Nguyễn Phi Lộ has spent a lot of time in hospitals. “For two years, our projects have focused more on health,” she explains.
Her research aligns closely with real societal needs.
Phi Lộ’s team recently developed an AI system to assist healthcare for Vietnamese patients. The project, funded by the VinIF Fund, stands out among over a hundred supported initiatives.
– Research aimed at real needs
Phi Lộ’s research always starts from concrete problems faced by society.
In the mountainous province of Điện Biên (North), doctors sought her team’s help to improve cancer diagnosis. Using AI, they aim to generate PET images from CT scans to identify suspicious cases.
“The images produced by AI cannot entirely replace real exams,” the researcher explains. “But they can help guide patients toward a more in-depth diagnosis when necessary.”
Additionally, her group works on environmental and climate-related projects, applying AI to predict typhoon and precipitation intensity.
For Phi Lộ, AI should not be seen as a magic solution. “AI is not a magical key,” she stresses. “Solid research and significant work on data are needed for it to become truly useful.” This belief guides her work today: leveraging technology to meet daily life’s needs and societal requirements.
– Thao Nguyễn/CVN
