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AI award recognises life-saving impact of research

Steering research that contributed to the safety of underground miners has earned Australian Catholic University computational intelligence expert Niusha Shafiabady a 2025 APAC Women in AI award.

Associate Professor Shafiabady from ACU’s Peter Faber Business School was recognised in the AI in Mining category for her work that found artificial intelligence could reliably and quickly forecast gas-related incidents in underground coal mines.

The project was a rewarding one for the researcher because it highlighted how AI technology can impact safety in the workplace.

“My mining research was grounded in real-life scenarios involving gas incidents in underground mines—situations where seconds matter and lives are at stake,” Associate Professor Shafiabady said.

“Knowing that this work could contribute to saving lives or preventing harm is deeply humbling. It reminds me why ethical AI matters—not just in theory, but in practice.

“If our models can help predict and prevent dangerous conditions, then we’re not just advancing technology—we’re protecting people. That’s the kind of impact I strive for.”

Women in AI is a non-profit organisation that supports and celebrates women from diverse backgrounds who make significant advances in the field of artificial intelligence.

The awards highlight leadership, technical excellence, and the positive impact women are making across many sectors, including health, education, finance and technology.

“I'm honoured and humbled to stand for ethical innovation, community impact, and a future where everyone feels seen, heard, and included,” Associate Professor Shafiabady said.

Media Contact: Damien Stannard, 0484387349, Damien.Stannard@acu.edu.au