Bias in Data Pipelines and Artificial Intelligence Systems

Being trained with massive amounts of human-generated content, AI may reflect and reinforce human bias and stereotypes and may be used for malicious purposes. The goal is to support the average person in better understanding whether the output of AI systems can be trusted or not. This project builds and evaluates novel methods to track, quantify, and deal with bias rather than to mitigate or remove it. This will empower end-users to make informed data-driven decisions.

The University of Queensland, Australia, is a world top 50 university (QS World University Rankings 2025). Embedded in the Data Science discipline at The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, you will be part of a world-leading research group in Data Science and AI with research funding coming both from the industry sector (e.g., Meta, Google) and the public sector (e.g., Australian Research Council, Swiss National Science Foundation).

Host for the 2032 Olympic Games, Brisbane is one of the fastest-growing capital cities in Australia in terms of population and employment. Brisbane residents are young and skilled, highly educated and culturally diverse. With 12 months of sunshine-filled days and clear blue skies, Brisbane has a climate that sets the scene for year-round alfresco activities. Even in the midst of a Brisbane winter, you’ll be yearning to play in the parks and dine outdoors. As the most biologically diverse capital in Australia, Brisbane is a green city with clean, healthy air and a clear commitment to its environment. The Brisbane City Council achieved carbon-neutral status for its operations in 2017. Brisbane’s public transport system is a clean and green network of trains, ferries (CityCats) and buses that have been integrated so commuters can travel seamlessly between each service. Brisbane's nightlife is extensive, spread across both sides of the River, and packed with variety and options.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history

A working knowledge of data science would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of data science and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of computer science is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 28 November, 2025 28 November, 2025.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Professor Gianluca Demartini (g.demartini@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: BIAS-DEMARTINI
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/bias-data-pipelines-and-artificial-intelligence-systems

Submit an EOI