Dr. Helard Becerra is currently a Postdoctoral Research Associate at QxLab, University College Dublin. Current research interests include audio-visual quality of experience, machine learning, and immersive media. He was a researcher at Samsung R&D Institute Brazil, in 2019. He obtained his B.Sc. degree in computer science from Universidad Nacional San Antonio Abad del Cusco (UNSAAC), Peru, in 2010. He received his MSc and PhD degrees in computer science from Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brazil, in 2013 and 2019. He was a visiting researcher between 2017 and 2018 at University College Dublin (UCD, Dublin).

What do you most enjoy about your research with Insight?
The first thing that comes to my mind is the variety of projects I have engaged in since I joined Insight Centre. Insight Centre undertakes a wide range of research projects, covering a diverse range of topics. During my time in Insight I have worked with projects that ranged from artificial intelligence and machine learning to social sciences and humanities. This diversity allows me to learn about and apply my knowledge to a wide range of areas, keeping my work challenging and engaging.

What is the most challenging aspect of doing a Postdoc?
There are several challenges while doing a Postdoc, but the first one that comes to my head is the time constraints that you have when you engage in a project. You need to learn how to balance your time. In addition to research, you probably need to dedicate time to teaching and admin work activities. You probably need to work on research proposals and think of what to do next.

When you’re not working on your post doctoral project, what pastimes do you enjoy?
Spending time with friends is always nice. I also enjoy reading or doing some exercise. I guess that helps refresh your mind and keep you engaged with work.