PhD Title Bank | Asia Pacific University (APU)

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PhD Title Bank



Work with our senior academicians to further your research.

Our senior academicians @ APU have developed a list of titles in Technology & Business which you may use for your PhD research paper. You will be working in collaboration with our experienced team, who will act as your academic supervisors, in completing the research process and producing a research paper.

Item

Core Area

Title

Synopsis

Expected Outcomes

Postgraduate School of Business

1

Project Management/Strategic Mgmt

Strategic Framework for SDG6 Adoption - Malaysian In-Bound Technology Transfer Model.

Learning from a Developed Nation's SDG6 Success Experience and the Malaysian Not Achieving Challenges.

Model for Adoption of a Developed Nation's SDG6 Experience on to the Malaysian Implementation Strategy.

Student Mobility and Internationlisation in a Post Pandemic World.

Exploring the use of technology to enhance the student experience by simulating a student's involvement in international mobility, to achieve the same outcomes as a physical experience.

A model for technology enhanced learning to provide a virtual mobility experience to enhance international skills.

2

HRM/Mgmt

An exploratory sequential study on Intrapreneurship skills that employers seek in fresh graduates in the post Covid 19 environment.

The intrapreneurship phenomenon is important for organizations as implementing it accelerates organizational growth, profitability and renewal as well as it helps secure the organizations survival in the business. The main purpose of this study is to assess the intrapreurship skills taught in instituitions and the skills gap that exist.

From the employers perspective, what are the Intraprenuership skills and dimensions that employees seek in graduates today.  Include dimensions such as innovativeness, proactiveness and risk taking.  From the educators perspective, what are the skills that are currently taught. As a conclusion, what is the gap.

Mindfulness, emotional intelligence and employee work engagement among employees working remotely today in the services industry. The moderating role of perceived organizational support.

Research on mindfulness has burgeoned recently. Nevertheless, very little empirical research has investigated mindfulness from a workplace perspective. This study will  address this oversight by examining workplace mindfulness – the degree to which individuals are mindful in their work setting. In addition EI will be included and in this causal research, it is hypothesizes that, in a dynamic work environment, workplace mindfulness and EI are  positively related to employee engagement.  The dimensions of work engagement (vigor, dedication, and absorption) will be incuded. The role of POS will further strengthen this study.

Testing these claims in a dynamic service industry context, the study will test to find the relationship between workplace mindfulness, EI and work engagement that include all three work engagement dimensions. The study will also add POS as a moderating construct.

Antecedents and Motivation for Knowledge Hiding Among Senior Employees in Organisation - A Perspective of Organisation in Malaysia

Challenges faced by fresh graduates upon joining organisations resulting from knowledge hiding practise by senior employees

Contributions to policy makers in organisation  (HR department) in minimizing the challenges faced by fresh graduates while at the same time promotes better mentoring process by senior employees

Well-being and Humanisation in the Workplace: The Automation-Augmentation Paradox

Explore the effect of automation and/or augmentation on the wellbeing of blended workforce in contemporary workplace and the possible complementarities  that benefit business and society

A relatively new research area that is expected to develop important insights in the management/ HR/ Technology fields. Hence, it is expected that the findings from the research are to be published in at least 2 top-tier academic journals

Green HRM (Area of research)

Linking specific HRM functions and environmental management

Identify whether specific HRM initatives can contribute towards environmental management

Creating Learning Organisation through Innovative Behaviour, Knowledge Management and Technology Based Job Characteristics towards Effective Remote Workplace Adaptability

Organisations are moving towards HR Analytics in processing the right pool talent. These talents need  cohesiveness in directing towards organisational performance. In achieving ultimate organisational performance, organisational knowledge assets need to enhance the storage, assessment, sharing, refinement, and creation of knowledge. Knowledge management leads towards effective innovation through innovative behaviour. Alongside, technology has augmented job to fit the current work setting. Job characteristics takes needs a relook. An organisation manages these components well known as Organisational Learning

Creating a Learning Organisation in the current Technology Based Job design

Generation Z and Human Capital Management

The relevant skills and knowledge reuqired by the generation Z.

Useful for employers in hiring and developing human capoital in the future.

3

Tourism

Developing a Sustainable Community-based Tourism Development Framework for Malaysia Post Covid-19 Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic has made us rethink of how to function in the face of new normal and to ensure it bounces back upon the lifting of travel ban by the governments

A Tourism Development Framework for B40 Communities in Malaysia to elevate them from the Poverty Line

4

Digital Marketing/Marketing/IR

The influence of social media marketing activities on branding and customer satisfaction

With the prevalence of Internet, social media has become an important means for online marketing events. 
Individuals and companies both create fan pages on online platforms and develop business opportunities using 
social media. While many past studies have investigated social media, few have mentioned the effects of social 
media marketing activities.

Develop a theoritical framework on Social media marketing actvities, branding and customer satisfaction

Transitioning to the digital workplace in a disruptive environment: Reflections and perceptions from graduates

Better understand perceptions of graduates as they transition to the digital workplace, investigating preparedness and the implications of the transition on performance.

Develop a framework which assists academics and practitioners better prepare graduates for employment and their individual and collective interactions with the ‘new normal’ workplace, providing insight into the digitalisation of learning and its impact on work prepardness and performance.

Making Global Sustainable Policy Matter Locally: The Role of Global Coalitions in localising SDGs

Learning from successful examples of international coalitions that have catalysed policy results locally

Modelling the process in which international coalitions can shape policy outputs at local level

5

Fintech/Finance

FinTech Regulation

FinTech has emerged as an essential part of Finserv ecosystem. The study should explore regulatory concerns of FinTech

Building a comprehensive Regulatory model for Fin Techs

Innovation in Financial Market

With advent of ICOs and alternative finance, does the capital raising ecosystem is changing

Evaluate the pros and cons of ICOs and alternative finance

1-Derivative usage and firm performance in small, medium and large firms

2-Hedging capacity of crypto currencies

1-Using historical data (Time Series or Panel Data)

2- Using historical data (Time Series Data)

1-Modelling the performance of the firms based on derivative usage according to the firm size

2-Modelling the crypto currencies and conventional assets to find any short term and long term relationship and concluding if any hedging capacity 

6

Sustainable Finance, Banking Performance Analysis, Islamic Banking and Finance

Islamic Finance Development and Social Sustainabiltiy, The role of Fintech

How the development of Islamic Finance promotes sustainability and the role that alternative finance could play to promote social sustaibaility

Performance of Islamic Finance in enabling social inclusion and the gaps that Fintech may fill in this perspective

7

Leadership - Sustainability Practices

The Role of Leadership in Driving Sustainable Supply Chain Management

This research project aims to investigate the pivotal role of leadership within organizations in the context of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM). In an era where businesses are increasingly focused on minimizing their environmental footprint and promoting social responsibility, effective leadership is recognized as a critical driver of sustainable practices. This study will explore how different leadership styles, strategies, and approaches influence the adoption, implementation, and success of sustainability initiatives within supply chain management.

By examining case studies, survey data, and interviews with industry leaders, this research seeks to provide insights into the ways in which leadership can shape and advance sustainable
 supply chain practices, contributing to both corporate sustainability goals and broader environmental and social objectives. Ultimately, the findings of this study aim to inform businesses and  leaders about the best practices in sustainable supply chain management and help guide future efforts in this critical area of sustainability.

8

Leadership and CSR

Leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility: A Cross-Industry Analysis of Sustainable Practices.

This research project seeks to conduct a comprehensive cross-industry analysis of the relationship between leadership  and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the context of sustainable business practices. Corporate social responsibility has evolved into a central aspect of modern business, encompassing environmental stewardship, ethical labor practices, community engagement, and more. Leadership plays a crucial role in shaping a company's CSR initiatives and their impact on society and the environment. This study will examine how different leadership styles, values, and organizational cultures influence the development and execution of CSR strategies in various industries. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including surveys, interviews, and case studies, this research aims to identify best practices and common challenges in leadership's role in CSR.

The findings will not only enhance our understanding of the interplay between leadership and CSR but also provide valuable insights for businesses, leaders, and policymakers striving to foster more sustainable 
and socially responsible business practices across diverse sectors.

9

Supply Chain and Warehouse Management

Warehouse Inspection Automation for Inventory Processes in Supply Chain Operation.

Leaning from the industry practice on severl factors influencing the warehouse automation practice.

Warehouse automation model in logistics industry.

10

Strategic Management and Sustainable Supply Chain

Shaping the influential strategy model affecting firms' performance: A comparative between Strategic Orientation and  A Sustainable Supply Chain Approach.

A comparative analysis on the strategic management elements and sustainable supply chain approach.

Startegic Management and Sustainable Suplly Chain Practice model in Enhancing firm's performance.

11

Digital Marketing, Sustainability and Green Marketing

Unlocking Sustainability in Digital Marketing: The Role of AI Integration in Enhancing Corporate Green Practices.

This research explores the synergy between digital marketing and corporate sustainability, with a focus on AI integration as the key mediator. Investigating how AI-driven digital marketing strategies can promote and enhance corporate green practices, this study seeks to illuminate the transformative potential of technology in advancing sustainability initiatives.

The anticipated outcome of this research is to provide actionable insights for businesses, demonstrating how AI integration in digital marketing can serve as a potent mediator in promoting and enhancing corporate sustainability practices. This study aims to empower organizations with effective strategies to align their digital marketing efforts with eco-friendly initiatives, fostering a more sustainable future.

Blockchain-Enhanced Digital Marketing Campaigns: An Investigation into Their Impact on Corporate Sustainable Branding.

This study delves into the transformative potential of blockchain-infused digital marketing campaigns on corporate sustainable branding. Through comprehensive analysis, it examines how these innovative campaigns influence consumer perceptions, trust, and loyalty, shedding light on the evolving landscape of sustainable branding in the digital age.

The anticipated outcome of this research is a comprehensive understanding of how blockchain-integrated digital marketing initiatives can effectively bolster corporate sustainable branding efforts. This knowledge will empower businesses to develop more impactful and transparent marketing strategies, fostering greater sustainability awareness and engagement among consumers while enhancing their brand image.

12

International Entrepreneurship, Born Global, SMEs internationalisation and SMEs Performance

Create a business model tailored for SMEs that integrates resources, capabilities, digitalization, and institutional support as key drivers of SMEs' performance.

This research project explores and examines the critical subject of SMEs and their competitive advantage in the context of internationalization. This research contributes to SMEs and startups aiming to thrive in foreign markets, aligning with SDGs related to economic growth, innovation, and partnerships for sustainable development.

Aligned with SDG 8 & 9, this research project presents a framework aimed at bolstering the competitive advantage of SMEs. The framework seeks to advance decent work, spur economic growth, foster job creation, and promote economic development while also promoting innovation and the establishment of robust infrastructure.

Postgraduate School of Technology

1

Data Analytics/Data Mgmt

Early detection of colorectal cancer using effective deep learning techniques

In recent years, few countries are facing the highest rate of colorectal cases than all other cancers. This study aims to develop an expert system for early prediction of colorectal cancer using deep learning techniques based on some uniques senarios

A model for early colorectal cancer diagnosis which highly reduces the spatial complexity

Market research on the adoption of end to end analytics in organizations and the impact on ROI

Investigating end to end processes in a business sector - adoption of data analytics in decision making - analyzing the impact on ROI

Model evaluating the analytics approach - 360 degree review framework for analytics adoption

An Efficient Approach for Skyline Queries over Uncertain Data

Massive exploitation and analysis of uncertain data by querying data in a flexible way. Modeling and querying uncertain data (e.g. multisensor data)

A model to exploit, extract, and recommend uncertain data that is interesting to users

Condition Monitoring of Plants based on Data Analytics and Machine Learning

By using collected data from various processes of an identified manufacturing/process plant, deploy data analytics techniques for feature extraction and develop appropriate model using Machine Learning for condition monitoring of the plant.

A model that is capable of monitoring the condition of various machineries within the plant and to provide suggestion on the health/status of the machineries.

Predicting Time series classification using Artificial intelligence (AI) in Healthcare

Learning from existing model and improved the model in Healthcare data analytics

Model the Time series classification using AI in disease diagnosis

2AI

Computer-aided Diagnosis of Medical Problems in Healthcare

Due to the voluminous medical data, and sometimes difficult anatomical differences, accurate diagnosis of medical problems can be very tedious and time consuming. There is widespread recognition of the benefits in using artificial intelligence to aid medical practitioners in quickly highlighting potential diagnosis, especially in difficult cases that may take many parameters into consideration

The development of novel strategies and algorithms related to the use of artificial intelligence in aiding medical practitioners diagnose diseases and medical problems in healthcare that are still unsolved or suffer from low accuracy

1. Medical Image Processing Bound Disease Detection and Classification Analysis (Alzeimer's Disease, Tumor Analysis, Diabetic Retinopathy).

2. Machine Learning/Deep Learning bound research on Prediction/Detection (AGVs, etc.)

1. Development of image processing algorithms for detection and classification of the disease.

2. Development of ML/DL based techniques/algorithms for prediction/Detection.

1. Computer Aided Diagnosis Model for the detection and Classification.

2. An AI Model for the usage on prediction and Detection 

An Improved Digital Angiographic Blood Vessel Classification Algorithm using AI System for Detection of Blocks and Coronary Artery Disease

The objective of this research work is to propose a novel automated Digital Coronary angiogram blood vessel classification algorithm using AI system

The algorithm developed must classify the 
types of blocks as minimal, mild, moderate or severe. Further, must classify the type I or type II CAD using 
AI System with more accuracy and reduced computational time

An Improved Framework of Emotional Recognition  Through EEG Using Deep Learning Neural Network for  Prisoner's

This research work is proposed to develop an improved framework for Emotion recognition through EEG using the deep learning neural network for classification of emotion, and to develop a new presentation method for a  prisoner to recognise or learn their emotions. Thus, the classified emotions and the raw EEG signals will be uploaded to the Node-RED IoT platform for real-time monitoring and controlling which the user can store and select the desired EEG signals and classified results through the Graphical user interface

This proposed research work is intended to overcome the three major problems, namely to identify the emotional recognition without human intervention (automatically), data to be fetched online and finally to reduce the computational time involved with high accuracy. Thus, the developed framework can be utilized by other researchers of same group across the globe and the outcome will be useful for psychologists to move forward in investigation of their criminal behavior for Societal well being

Development and Implementation of an Intelligent Algorithm for Sizing Battery Storage System under Microgrid Energy Management System Architecture

Incorporating battery storage system in order to perform peak shaving of load and reduce penalty. Combine with AI to predict which peak shall be shaved in order to minimize the penalty effect

A smart model which is able to switch to charging and discharging mode according to accurate prediction and perform peak shaving on power consumption

3

Cyber Security & Forensics

A Secure Symmetric Block Cipher Encryption Algorithm

The developed algorithm will be tested for its randomness. The generated plaintext and ciphertext will have to pass all 15 NIST test, avalanche effect test and cryptanalysis attempts to proof the security of the algorithm

A symmetric encryption algorithm that can be embedded in any hardware and software applications

A secure approach for exchanging medical records between healthcare providers

Taking advantages of the new advancement that have been introduced in various technologies including smartphones, cloud based services, various type of sensors and security functions.

Development of a framework with a proof of concept prototypic system that can be web based or mobile app.

Forecasting Reoccurances for CSI using Analytics

Using historical data of crime scene models, mapping exerices and develop algorithms for forecasting/predictions

A model for CSI usage on typical actions for Forensics Investigation on the future

4

IoT/Cloud Engineering/Intelligent Systems

IoT for Smart City

Develop framework, with hardware and software to be implemented in Smart City

A model and proof of concept for the implementation of Smart City

Quantum Genetic Algorithms

Investigate and design a lightweight python library/framework to facilitate the development of GA or Evolutionary algorithms on quantum simulators.

A high level framework for Quantum Genetic Algorithms

Crowd Density Analysis with the aid of Intelligent Systems 

Feature extraction from video footages to establish a density measure for a crowd in a geographical location

Working demonstration of a model that can determine the density of a crowd in a scenario and provide guidelines

Secure Internet of Things

Study and present the security issues associated with the current Internet of Things and develop a model to improvise security gaps 

Develop a model / framework to accomplish security in the Internet of Things and demonstrate it with suitable deliverables

5

VR/AR

Detection of ASD through  Extended Reality (XR) Educational Experiences

A system integrated with immersive learning experiences can be proposed to track the behaviour and interactions of the user in order to detect signs and symptoms of autism

A complete prototype of ASD detection system through extended reality (XR) educational experiences is expected to be developed

Supporting Active Engagement with ASD Children with Short Attention Span through XR Technology

Several ASD children is having difficulties in learning due to their short attention span. An interactive application integrated with XR technologies such as AR, VR and MR could be developed and improved their learning issues

A complete prototype of interactive application for ASD children in order to enhance and provide active engagement  by utilizing Extended Reality (XR) technology

6

Information Systems

Quantifying the Impact of Educational Technology on Higher Order Thinking Skills

As institutions across the globe transform their learning starategies to incorporate more technology focussed methods, what is the impact of the Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) that students need to enter the world of employment.

A framework for insitutions to enhance student employability skills

A trust-based framework for empowering users to battle fake news

Proposing a new trust-based framework by using blackchain/ ledger technology

The usage of blockchain and ledger technologies in formation of a new trust-based framework. The framework will help help users to evaluate the authority and correctness of the news

Detecting Organisational Non-Compliance through Artifical Immune Systems (AIS)

Developing an AIS model that will use Danger Theory to detect non-compliance of employees

An empirically tested AIS compliance model

Actor Network Theory (ANT) based Framework for Digital Learning Post Covid-19

Using ANT to investigate, appraise, and improve digital delivery

A model for the adoption/implementation of digital Learning

7

Electronics/Renewable Energy/5G

RF Energy Harvesting System in 5G Wireless Sensor Node for IoT Application

Developing integrated circuit RF energy harvesting system in CMOS platform will be essential for its low-cost implementation for mass production, small physical form factor, and system-on-chip integration with 5G WSN devices

Develop a high efficient integrated multiband RFEH system for 5G WSN applications. The scope encapsulate the development of new circuit design to achieve high harvesting sensitivity through Q-factor improvement, efficiency enhancement by reducing the forward conduction and leakage current of the RF-DC rectifier, and reducing the power consumption of the power management unit

Artificial Intelligence Based Maximum Power Point Tracking technique to Harness Solar Energy

Using artificial intelligence technique, develop algorithms for MPPT solution

Maximum power point is tracked in faster time response

Design of Next-Generation Power Electronics Converter with Wide Bandgap Technology

Using wide bandgap power devices, design and develop power electronics converter

Size and losses of the power electronics converter are halved

Telecommunications, 5G

A Self Organizing Solution For Interference Mitigation Scheme in 5G Networks 

In order to support the next generation wireless networks i.e. 5G mobile communication, and to satisfy the increasing demand for high-definition video, among other high data rate services, radically different network architectures, associated technologies and network operation algorithms, need to be developed compared to existing fourth generation (4G) cellular solutions. 

Achieving multi-Gbps data rate for future 5G networks by providing such services at low cost and high efficiency to the operators and end users are taken in to consideration. 

High Power Amplifier for THz Using HEMT

mm-wave and THz band are the frequency bands to fulfill the promise of future hetrogeneous networks. HPA design at both frequency ranges are yet at intial levels

HPA Design for THz frequency band that will be used in next generation mobile and other networks

Low Noise Amplifer for THz using HEMT 

mm-wave and THz band are the frequency bands to fulfill the promise of future hetrogeneous networks. LNA design at both frequency ranges are yet at intial levels

LNA Design for THz frequency band that will be used in next generation mobile and other networks

SDN Based RAN Architecture for Moble Hetrogeneous Networks at mmwave and THz Frequencies

SDN based RAN architecture for mm-wave and THz band is yet to reach its maturity level. No single architecture have exploited the potential of the enabling technologies.

Software Defined RAN Architecture that exploits the potential of enabling technologies

THz RRH for Moble Hetrogeneous Networks

mm-wave and THz band are the frequency bands to fulfill the promise of future hetrogeneous networks. Radio Remote Head design at both frequency ranges are challenging in terms of reconfigurability and RF to IF conversions.

THz RRH that is reconfigurable with minmum hardware infrastructure and virtualized network functions

Reconfigurable Radio Remote Head Design for 6G Networks

RRH that are realized on COTS platform are not flexible for expansion. A reconfigurable RRH with low hardware complexity and high virutalized network functionality that will reduce the cost of the network deployment is demanded by the fast expanding mobile networks

Reconfigurable RRH design that reduces the hardware complexity of RRH through virtualzation of network functions

Massive MIMO Antenna Array for THz Band

mm-wave and THz band are the frequency bands to fulfill the promise of future hetrogeneous networks. Massive MIMO design at both frequency ranges are yet at intial levels

64 x 64 Massive MIMO Antenna Array Design for THz frequency band that will be used in next generation mobile and other networks

Software Defined Virtualized End to End Hetrogeneous Network Architecture for 5G and Beyond

With latency critical, reliable, ultra speed high density network architecture demand grows with new use cases evolving day by day, an end to end network that is SDN and NFV based hetrogeneous network architecture that is highly reconfigurable and flexible is need of the hour.

SDN/NFV based end to end heterogeneous network architecture for 5G and beyond