Keerthana VELLAYAPPAN

Employment experience: 

2025 – 2026: Research Associate (National University of Singapore, Singapore)

2023 – 2025: Research Engineer (National University of Singapore, Singapore)

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Education: 

2026 – Now: Doctor of Philosophy in Photovoltaic Engineering (UNSW)

2021 – 2023: Master of Engineering in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (National University of Singapore, Singapore)

2016 – 2020: Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering (National Institute of Technology, India)

Research interests: 

• Dynamic and continuous-time modelling

• Process modelling and simulation

• Machine learning, physics-informed modelling, and transfer learning

• Real-time control and optimisation

• Renewable energy and photovoltaic systems

Why is your research important? 

As solar PV becomes an increasingly important part of our energy system, improving the efficiency, reliability and operation of large-scale PV systems is essential for making the most of the renewable energy we generate. My research explores how machine learning, dynamic modelling, and simulation can help us better understand these complex systems, improve their performance, and make more informed decisions about their operation.

Why do you like research?  

I enjoy research because I love solving puzzles, especially the ones where nobody knows the answer yet. There is something incredibly exciting and satisfying about exploring different possibilities and finally finding a piece that makes the puzzle come together.

What do you like to do when you are not saving the world?  

When I’m not saving the world, I enjoy watching movies and shows, travelling to new places, and exploring different cuisines. I’m always excited to try something new, whether it’s a new destination or a new dish!