At the VinUni-Illinois Smart Health Center (VISHC), every researcher has a story that reflects both scientific pursuit and personal growth. For Nguyen Tran Huu Thinh, now a PhD researcher at the center, the path has been far from linear. From experimenting and failing in his early days, to making a detour as a designer, and eventually finding his calling in Artificial Intelligence (AI) for healthcare, Thinh’s journey shows how resilience and discipline can turn uncertainty into purpose.
Finding His Path at VISHC
Thinh began at VISHC as a Research Assistant, where he was first exposed to the challenges of research.
Thinh Nguyen presenting his research on overcoming catastrophic forgetting in federated learning at VinUniversity
Now pursuing his PhD under Professor Kok-Seng, his research focuses on Trustworthy AI in healthcare systems – ensuring that AI not only performs accurately but also protects security and privacy.
Thinh Nguyen presenting his paper on multi-label classification at the IEEE KSE 2023 in Hanoi
Lessons Beyond Accuracy
One of the most valuable lessons he learned at VISHC is that research is not just about pushing accuracy higher with new methods.
This mindset, shaped by feedback from mentors and peers, helped him transform from a hesitant beginner into a confident researcher.
Detours and Discipline
Thinh’s journey also includes bold detours. After finishing his undergraduate degree, he spent a year working as a Designer. At first glance, it looked like a break from science, but it gave him clarity.
Beyond academia, powerlifting has been another teacher. It instilled in him discipline and time management – qualities that have become essential in balancing research and life. Meanwhile, design and art remain creative outlets that provide relaxation and inspiration.
Beyond research, Thinh Nguyen shows equal dedication in powerlifting competitions, reflecting strength and discipline
Interestingly, the competition that left the biggest mark on him was not academic at all. A traffic safety contest in elementary school gave him his first taste of achievement, showing him that with effort, he could accomplish something meaningful. That sense of self-belief has fueled his motivation ever since.
Looking Ahead
Thinh’s short-term goal is to publish impactful scientific papers. Long term, he hopes to become a university professor, lead applied AI projects, and bring research benefits to the wider community.
Thinh Nguyen during his Master’s thesis defense on the relationship between transferability and continual learning
Words for Young Dreamers
Looking back on his journey at VISHC and beyond, Thinh shares:
Thinh Nguyen (right) at CECS Day 2024, celebrating innovation and collaboration in computer science
