Company Description
The University of New England (UNE) is recognized as the only public university in Australia to have been awarded five stars for Overall Experience by the Good Universities Guide for 20 consecutive years. Offering a rich history of academic excellence and innovation, UNE continues to provide students with high-quality education and support services. Situated in Armidale, New South Wales, UNE is committed to research and programs that contribute to global and societal progress.
UNE is proud to partner with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the NSW Police Force (NSWPF) to deliver the CSIRO Next Generation Graduates Program, focused on developing ethical and effective AI solutions for modern law enforcement challenges.
Role Description
This is a full-time, 2-year Master's Research Scholarship with flexible delivery options (on-campus in Armidale, NSW or online). Three positions are available.
The scholarship recipient will undertake a research-focused Master's degree on the project "Next Generation Policing: Effective and ethical use of AI and data science in law enforcement." This groundbreaking program sits at the intersection of technology, ethics, and public safety, addressing the critical need for smart, ethical, and efficient AI solutions as data sources grow rapidly and operational demands on police intensify.
Key Responsibilities
* Conduct high-quality research in AI applications for law enforcement, co-designed with NSW Police Force specialists
* Complete a 3-month industry placement embedded within NSW Police Force
* Develop innovative AI solutions in areas such as video/image analysis, digital forensics, deepfake detection, LLM integration, forensic link analysis, or drone analytics
* Collaborate with leading academics, CSIRO researchers, and a national cohort of students across diverse disciplines
* Participate in CSIRO's Next Gen coursework and cohort activities
* Prepare academic reports, research outputs, and contribute to policy development
* Work with NSWPF to ensure solutions are transparent, fair, and maintain public trust
* Present research findings through publications, conferences, and stakeholder briefings
Potential Research Areas
* AI-powered video and image analysis for investigations and digital forensics
* Fingerprint quality assessment using on-device AI
* LLM-enabled interrogation of large documents and entity extraction
* Deepfake detection for child protection and domestic violence contexts
* Cross-discipline forensic link analysis
* AI-assisted drone video analytics for search and rescue
* Predictive workload and staffing analysis
* Report-taking assistants and automated data population systems
* Validation and court admissibility of AI-enhanced digital media
* High-volume disparate video processing and analysis
Financial Support
* $43,333 annual stipend (tax-free, indexed annually)
* $10,000 training allowance (total)
* $5,000 travel allowance (total)
* $420 thesis allowance
* $2,000 cost of living support
Program Highlights
* World-class mentorship from UNE academics and CSIRO AI researchers
* Embedded training in AI and emerging technologies
* Real-world industry experience with NSW Police Force
* Flexible working arrangements (online or on-campus options)
* National research network and collaboration opportunities
* Contribution to ethical AI governance and policy development
Qualifications
Essential
* Australian citizen or permanent resident (security vetting required by NSWPF)
* A strong academic background in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Criminology, Criminal Justice, Information Technology, Engineering, or related fields
* Bachelor's degree with Honours (or equivalent)
* Proven research, analysis, and critical thinking skills
* Strong written and verbal communication abilities, with experience in preparing academic reports or publications
* Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as within multidisciplinary teams
* Proficiency with research tools, data analysis software, and research methodologies
* Commitment to advancing ethical AI in policing and contributing to innovative, socially responsible solutions
* Passion for working at the intersection of technology, ethics, and public safety
Desirable
* Experience with machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, or AI development
* Programming skills in Python, R, or similar languages
* Understanding of law enforcement operations, criminal justice systems, or public safety challenges
* Prior research experience or academic publications
* Engagement in law enforcement, community safety, digital forensics, or related professional fields
* Experience with responsible AI development, ethics in technology, or policy work
How to Apply
Applications are managed by:
Dr Kyle Mulrooney, Chief Investigator
University of New England
Email: kmulroon@une.edu.au
Closing Date: Open until filled
Learn More
* CSIRO Next Gen Program: https://vimeo.com/852584622
* Project Details: https://www.csiro.au/en/work-with-us/funding-programs/funding/next-generation-graduates-programs/awarded-programs/next-generation-policing-effective-and-ethical-use-of-ai-and-data-science-in
* Scholarship Information: https://www.une.edu.au/scholarships/higher-degree-research-scholarships/next-generation-policing-scholarship2
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