From university research to real-world AI impact

For Alex Peng, the path to building artificial intelligence systems began at the University of Auckland. Now working as a senior AI engineer at Heidi, Alex says his time at the University played a defining role in shaping his technical foundation and his approach to AI development. During his PhD in Computer Science, he researched neural networks and machine learning in situations where annotated data is limited, a challenge that remains highly relevant in healthcare technology today.

Supervised by Prof Yun Sing Koh, Dr Patricia Riddle, and Prof Bernhard Pfahringer, Alex says the experience taught him the importance of rigorous evaluation and research-led thinking. Alongside machine learning, he also studied symbolic AI, expert systems, and case-based reasoning under academics including Dr Mike Barley, Associate Professor Ian Watson, and Professor Pat Langley, giving him a broad understanding of different approaches to artificial intelligence. 

"That journey deeply shaped my personal and professional growth," he says. "Most importantly, my supervisors instilled in me the absolute necessity of rigorous evaluation." 

Alex also credits Professor Michael Witbrock and the Strong AI Lab for influencing the way he approaches AI research and product development today. Working on language models at a foundational research level gave him insight into the technologies now driving modern AI systems, while also providing opportunities to mentor students and collaborate with leading researchers.

Today, Alex applies that research-driven mindset in industry, contributing to the development of healthcare-focused AI at Heidi. The University of Auckland’s Newmarket Innovation Precinct (NIP) has played a key role in enabling this shift, bridging the gap between the University’s research strengths and forward-looking industries. It brings together deep-tech ideas and commercial expertise in a way that benefits both sides.

For Heidi, establishing a physical footprint at NIP has changed how the team works together. Alex notes that having a dedicated office space within the Precinct has given the Auckland-based team the unique opportunity to collaborate together more in person, alongside other like-minded technology startups. This proximity encourages collaborative problem-solving, enhances the team's cohesion, and ensures their innovative clinical tools undergo robust validation. 

The relationship between Heidi and the University of Auckland extends beyond shared office space; it is a continuous loop between talent and innovation. To further strengthen these ties, Heidi recently hired an intern directly from the University's School of Computer Science.

Ultimately, Alex's journey and Heidi’s arrival at NIP reflect the essential role that modern universities play in equipping graduates and tech companies. By combining deep technical foundations, interdisciplinary thinking, and physical co-location spaces, the University of Auckland and NIP are helping research translate into real-world innovation with a global impact.