My research examines how human movement can be transformed into analytical signals without losing meaning.

A central concern is validation. Wearable devices generate continuous streams of data, but the presence of data alone does not guarantee that meaningful activity has occurred. Movement must be distinguished from pauses, artefacts, environmental noise, and non-human transport, using rules that are explicit, explainable, and auditable.

I focus on locomotion data as a tractable and socially relevant domain. Walking, in particular, provides a rich balance between regularity and variability, making it suitable for studying thresholds, segmentation, and behavioural patterns over time.

Beyond validation, my work explores how verified movement can be interpreted through both data and economic lenses. The aim is not monetisation for its own sake, but the investigation of incentive mechanisms and policy-relevant models that recognise activity while maintaining ethical boundaries.

This research trajectory is oriented toward applications in public health, inclusion, and data-driven decision-making, and is developed within Australia with the intention of formal doctoral supervision.

Research is the engine of discovery. It turns questions into answers and ideas into impact. For me, it’s the key to unlocking new driving meaningful change.

  • Academic Thesis
    NIERO, Breno
    "Developing and Deploying Integrated Security Systems for Small and Medium Enterprises"
    Supervised by Dr. Kami Sivaguranathan
    Published as part of BSc (Hons) Business Computing Degree, University of Westminster, London, UK, in collaboration with the University of Westminster Business School, the Departments of Engineering and Computer Science, and the University of Westminster Fabrication Labs
    First Class Honours
    Publication Date: May 7, 2003

    Abstract
    The rapid evolution of digital technologies has presented both opportunities and challenges for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly in safeguarding their business operations against increasing security threats. This thesis explores the development and deployment of integrated security systems tailored for SMEs, focusing on cost-effective, scalable, and user-friendly solutions that can mitigate the risks posed by cyberattacks, data breaches, and unauthorized access. By combining methodologies from business computing, engineering, and computer science, the research provides a comprehensive framework for the implementation of security protocols across diverse SME environments.

  • MBA Thesis
    NIERO, Breno
    "An Overview of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) Technology: Applications and Impact on Business Analytics"
    Supervised by Prof. Nicolau Reinhard, PhD
    Published as part of MBA in Information Technology, School of Economics, Business and Accounting at the University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
    High Distinction
    Publication Date: December 18, 2004

    Abstract:
    This thesis explores the potential of RFID technology in modern enterprise systems and its significant applications in optimizing business analytics. By integrating RFID with data-driven decision-making processes, the research provides insights into improving operational efficiency, enhancing inventory management, and driving analytics-based business strategies.

  • MSc Research (Capstone) Project
    NIERO, Breno
    "Beyond the Surface: Strategic Insights into Australia’s Mining Support Services Industry for International Firms"
    Supervised by Dr. Somo George Marano, PhD
    Published as part of MSc in International Business, The University of Sydney, Australia
    Distinction
    Publication Date: February 2024

    Abstract:
    This research (capstone) project provides a comprehensive analysis of Australia’s Mining Support Services industry, leveraging strategic business frameworks such as SWOT analysis to build actionable insights for international companies. The study examines critical industry factors, including regulatory challenges and capital expenditure trends, offering recommendations for firms aiming to expand in Australia’s highly specialized and fragmented mining sector. By employing advanced data analysis techniques and combining theoretical knowledge with practical business applications, the research serves as a robust tool for decision-making in global mining operations.

  • Niero, B. (2024). Empowering health ecosystems: Incentivizing wearable adoption through open innovation and tokenized platforms. PhD research proposal.

    As a distinction alumnus of the University of Sydney, I am currently discussing my research advancements with potential supervisors at the Business School.

    Abstract

    The primary aim of this research is to design and evaluate a framework for a tokenized health platform that incentivizes individuals to adopt wearable technologies and share anonymized health data. By integrating principles of open innovation, the framework will foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including individuals, healthcare providers, and research institutions. This collaboration is intended to bridge gaps in data accessibility, incentivization, and scalability, addressing persistent barriers to wearable adoption.

    One key focus of the study is to examine how financial incentives, delivered through tokenization, can influence individuals’ willingness to adopt wearable health technologies. This aspect seeks to uncover the relationship between economic incentives and behavioral change, specifically in the context of contributing personal health data to broader public health initiatives.