Professor Tele Tan AM is a John Curtin Distinguished Professor at Curtin University. He is Deputy Head of the School of Electrical Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences and founder and Director of the Autism Academy for Software Quality Assurance (AASQA).

His work brings together artificial intelligence, engineering, education and social impact, with a strong emphasis on translating research and technology into practical outcomes for industry and the community. Through AASQA, he has led the development of neuroinclusive education, mentoring and employment pathways for autistic young people, working in partnership with universities, schools, industry and community organisations.

His work has received significant international, national and state recognition, including:

• ACSES Evidence and Research-Based Approach Award, 2026 – recognising the collaborative work of the Autism Academy, Autism-Specialist Mentoring Program and Curtin Autism Research Group.
• Engagement Australia Award for Excellence in Community Engagement, 2025 – recognising the work of the Autism Academy and Curtin Autism Research Group.
• QS Reimagine Education Awards – Gold, Access, Diversity & Inclusion, 2023 – for Empowering Neurodiverse Adolescents, Curtin University.
• Premier’s Science Awards – Chevron Science Engagement Initiative of the Year, 2022 (Joint Winner) – awarded to the Autism Academy.
• Business/Higher Education Round Table (BHERT) Award for Outstanding Collaboration for National Benefit, 2018 – recognising the Autism Academy and its industry and community partnerships.
• WAITTA INCITE Award for Most Impactful Social Benefit, 2016 – recognising the social impact of the Autism Academy.
• Australian Computer Society Gold Disruptor Award for ICT Education, 2016.

His research interests include artificial intelligence and machine learning, multimodal AI, robotics and autonomous systems, computer vision, AI for health and rare diseases, and neuroinclusive technologies. He is particularly interested in multidisciplinary research that brings together technology, health, education, industry and social impact.

In recognition of his contributions beyond academia, Professor Tan was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to information and communication technology and to people on the autism spectrum.