Welcome Interview: Dr B B V L Deepak, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India

Dr B B V L Deepak will begin their term as Editor of International Journal of Intelligent Unmanned Systems on 1 January 2026. We asked them to about their background, research interests and goals for the journal.

Q1: Can you tell us a bit about your academic and professional background?
A: I am working as an Associate Professor in the department of Industrial Design, NIT Rourkela. I am with 15 years of teaching and research experience in the field of Design for Manufacturing and Assembly, Human Machine Interaction and Industrial Robotics. I published more than 110 research publications in peer-reviewed journals along with 11 edited books and one adapted book in my re search areas.

Q2: What attracted you to the role of Editor for IJIUS?
A: The prime reason for becoming the journal Editor-in-Chief (EIC) to get knowledge on updated research in the field of intelligent systems around the globe. Since, I have experience of around 15 years in the field of intelligent manufacturing systems and the vital role of any EIC is to take an apropriate decision towards the research publication, I am able to uphold high standards for this journal.

Q3: What is your vision for the journal in the coming years?
A: First, I concentrate on the enhancement of impact factor of IJIUS and make the journal most influential and widely read. Further, I will contact to world reputed researchers to propose special issues on cutting edge research. I also promote the journal through inviting the organisers of ‘high h-index conference / workshop’ to propose special issue on thematic research area of IJIUS.  

Q4: Are there any particular topics or trends in the field that you are excited to see more of in the journal?
A: I am excited to see the research in the most impactful and emerging technologies which are shaping the industries and daily life. The integration of these immersive technologies like Agentic AI, AR/VR/XR, wearable technology and biodegradable electronics will enhance the daily life and redefine the industrial sectors.  

Q5: What advice would you give to authors who are considering submitting to IJIUS?
A: My advice for the authors is to make sure the paper has a strong match with journal’s research topic before submission to avoid desk-rejection. To have higher chance of paper acceptance, it is advised to highlight the novelty of the methodology followed by results which have practical and the theoretical impact.  

Q6: How do you see the role of academic publishing evolving, and how will IJIUS support its community?
A: A diverse editorial board and Community-driven publishing models are essential to increase visibility, citation potential, and global equity for any journal. IJIUS concentrates on real-world relevance and interdisciplinary research which can enhance more engagement and innovation. In addition, I want to propose special issues by eminent researchers focusing on cutting-edge areas in unmanned systems.

Q7: What do you enjoy doing outside of your academic work?
A: It gives me the best opportunity to get deeply rooted in advancing cutting-edge research. Further, I enjoy engaging in interdisciplinary reading which helps broaden my perspective on the implications of intelligent systems. I also value the time for mentoring emerging researchers and fostering collaborative networks across IJIUS disciplines.

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Closing:
Thank you for sharing your insights and aspirations. The Emerald Publishing team look forward to partnering with you to grow IJIUS!