The Sydney Informatics Hub at the University of Sydney is playing a pivotal role in integrating generative artificial intelligence into research across Australia. As these advanced AI tools become more prominent, the Hub is assisting researchers in understanding and utilizing the opportunities they present, as well as navigating associated challenges.
Generative AI technology enhances machine capabilities to perform tasks that typically require human cognition, such as pattern recognition and decision-making. This technology extends beyond traditional AI, enabling the creation of text, images, code, and music by analyzing and recombining patterns from vast datasets. Tools like Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT are examples of how this technology is transforming writing, design, research, and problem-solving.
Academics have long engaged with AI, utilizing it to analyze large datasets while also reflecting on the ethical implications, particularly concerning bias and accountability in decision-making. Dr. Darya Vanichkina, who leads the Data Science Group at the Hub, has extensive experience in applying AI to biomedical research, including genomics and bioinformatics. She has also consulted on a variety of projects, ranging from assessing gambling-related harms to predicting patient outcomes in healthcare settings.
“There”s a huge amount of interest from the research community to adopt the latest developments in generative AI,” Dr. Vanichkina noted. “This technology can enhance personal productivity, improve analysis and communication, facilitate the development of new diagnostics or software, and even serve as a subject of research.” The Hub continuously seeks out new users and applications for these technologies, offering support to ensure responsible and effective usage.
The University of Sydney is recognized nationally and globally for its leadership in deploying generative AI within educational settings. Its innovative Cogniti AI program for educators has received national acclaim and is being implemented by many higher education institutions across Australia. Students are encouraged to utilize AI in their assessments and have contributed to shaping the University”s guidelines on AI application.
While the integration of generative AI into research holds promise, it is also accompanied by complexities such as varying copyright laws, data sovereignty, and obtaining consent from human research participants. “For instance, in partnerships with NSW Health, we must ensure that data remains within NSW and does not leave the country,” Dr. Vanichkina explained.
To aid researchers in navigating these intricate issues, the Sydney Informatics Hub has organized training sessions since July, attracting over 1200 participants, including researchers at various career stages and professional staff. More training sessions are slated for November, with plans already underway for a comprehensive schedule in 2026, according to Dr. Angus Fisk, the Hub”s Data Science and AI Training Lead.
“This year, the demand for training has been exceptionally high,” Dr. Fisk stated. “Researchers recognize the importance of using AI both ethically and effectively.” Although the Hub has not recorded its training sessions for on-demand access due to the rapidly evolving nature of the field, it consistently updates its curriculum to reflect the latest developments in generative AI.
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with 95 percent indicating they would recommend the workshops to peers. One attendee commented, “The session was a timely and thought-provoking exploration of AI in the context of disability. It deepened my understanding of the structural vulnerabilities of large language models and ethical concerns around data protection.”
The Sydney Informatics Hub serves not only as a training facility but also as a crucial access point to the University”s digital research infrastructure, providing consultancy in data science, statistics, AI, bioinformatics, and software engineering. The Hub also facilitates high-performance and cloud computing access, alongside a dedicated AI-native GPU cluster set to be available to researchers in early 2026.
Through collaborations with various research and industry entities, including the Australian Research Data Commons and the National Computational Infrastructure, the Hub is a vital contributor to Australia”s digital research ecosystem. Drs. Vanichkina and Fisk frequently share their insights at conferences such as the ARDC Digital Research Skills Summit and eResearch Australasia 2025.
“Generative AI presents numerous opportunities for researchers, enhancing productivity and aiding in data synthesis and communication of findings,” Dr. Vanichkina remarked. By working closely with Australia”s research and industry communities, as well as legal experts on AI ethics, the Hub aims to maintain Sydney”s leadership in this domain and ensure that researchers have access to essential tools and support.
