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Deakin Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative
Artificial intelligence built by humans, for humans
Research that explores machine learning problems and invents novel solutions
The Deakin Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative is a globally recognised research initiative dedicated to exploring new frontiers of AI and machine learning. We translate research into pioneering technologies that solve real-world industry challenges and benefit society.
Our research themes
We combine industry leading experience with world-leading research capabilities across key research themes to drive cutting-edge research.
- Generative AI
- Foundation models
- Agentic AI
- Decision support systems
- AI Safety and assurance
- Sample-efficient optimisation
- Complex system design
- Probabilistic methods
- Deep learning
- Computer vision
- Reinforcement learning
- Human-machine teaming
- Rapid prototyping
Our partnerships
We collaborate with industries and sectors to drive innovation, delivering patented products and transformative solutions across a range of areas including health, materials and sustainability, defence and safety, social impact, and education and training.
About the Initiative
Our researchers are pioneering methods and approaches for AI and machine learning problems with high potential impact.
Be at the forefront of AI innovation
As a PhD student at Deakin, you’ll learn alongside the sharpest minds in the field of AI. Be part of a diverse, passionate community solving society’s toughest challenges with AI built by humans, for humans.
In the future, AI will become ubiquitous. With this vision in mind, we aim to build AI that is useful to society, reliable, and aligned to our core human needs and values.
Our researchers
We bring more than 100 of the world’s brightest minds with expertise in a diverse range of areas including AI algorithms, decision support for critical systems, and accelerated design and discovery.
Deakin Distinguished Professor Svetha Venkatesh is the Co-Director of the Deakin Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative. Professor Venkatesh’s work is focused on developing cutting-edge solutions to problems of societal importance in critical areas like health, security, manufacturing and aged care. Her work has resulted in the ability to detect potential security threats in large data sets; health analytics that help doctors predict risk; and accelerated the scientific method of discovery.
Deakin Distinguished Professor Kon Mouzakis is the Co-Director of the Deakin Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative. Professor Mouzakis’ research involves studying how the implementation of AI into complex systems can improve our understanding of some of the more difficult problems we all face in this challenging world.
Professor Sunil Gupta is the head of Optimisation and Materials Discovery at the Deakin Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative. Professor Gupta’s research interests include development of theory and practice for sample-efficient AI and machine learning such as Bayesian optimisation, multi-arm bandits, and reinforcement learning. He has focused on applications in healthcare, computer vision, advanced manufacturing and materials discovery.
Professor Rajesh Vasa is the Head of Translational Research at the Deakin Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative. Professor Vasa’s research focus is on robust AI-infused technology that assists decision making in real-world contexts. His work has led to the creation of two start-ups, and his research outcomes have delivered consumer facing products and commercial systems that are in production.
Featured research
Our research tackles real-world problems using methods grounded in modern machine learning and deep learning, to make discoveries, advance knowledge and build systems that can benefit society.
Trauma Reception and Resuscitation System
We developed the Trauma Reception and Resuscitation System to support trauma teams in the first 30 minutes of care. By providing real-time decision support, the system reduces errors of omission by 21%, blood transfusions by 30% and ICU time by 26 hours.
Revolutionising dementia education with VR training
We partnered with Dementia Australia to create D-Esc, a VR training program that equips aged care staff with de-escalation skills for behavioural emergencies. This immersive experience builds empathy, improves communication and enhances safety in dementia care.
New AI model advances battery and materials research
We’re advancing battery and materials research with smarter AI simulations that predict how new materials behave at the molecular level. By virtually testing polymers beyond lithium, we’re designing safer, greener and more affordable energy solutions.
Our facilities
Our state-of-the-art facilities help us to conduct transformative work. Access the latest technology in our world-class facilities at our Melbourne Burwood Campus and Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus.
High-performance AI computing
We have advanced facilities designed to support innovative AI research. Equipped with powerful servers, it enables researchers to run complex models and large-scale experiments, accelerating innovation across machine learning and data science.
Mission control and decision systems
Explore our purpose-built laboratory for research into mission planning and execution. It supports applications across emergency services, health and defence, helping researchers develop new tools and processes for critical decision-making.
Simulation Infrastructure
Our simulation facilities support the design and visualisation of 3D environments in augmented and virtual reality. Using advanced equipment, researchers can develop, test and refine immersive simulations in collaboration with industry partners.
Contact us
Visit the Deakin Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative website
