PhD Scholarship: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence Technologies on Psychological Assessment

Company Description

The School of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at Griffith University is a leading institution dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation in the fields of computer science, information technology, and digital systems.

This opportunity will be primarily based at Gold Coast. As Griffith is a multi-site University you may be required to work across other locations.

Griffith University sites are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples.

Job Description

We are seeking a PhD candidate for a research project aiming to investigate the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in psychological assessment, with a particular emphasis on suicide intention detection and risk mitigation. By leveraging advanced machine learning models, knowledge graphs, and natural language processing, the study aims to create cutting-edge systems capable of analysing textual, verbal, and facial cues to identify suicidal tendencies.

A primary focus of this research is facial expression analysis, enabling deeper insights into non-verbal indicators of mental distress. In collaboration with psychologists, the project aspires to advance early intervention strategies, enhance the precision of risk assessments, and lay the groundwork for AI-driven mental health support systems that are both ethical and effective.

Qualifications

The selection of applicants for higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University considers academic merit and research background. To be successful in this role, you must demonstrate strong background in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, particularly deep learning techniques for sensor data, text, speech, and facial expression analysis. Strong programming skills in Python and experience with AI frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch are essential. A solid understanding of data science, including data collection, annotation, and model validation, is necessary, along with adherence to ethical guidelines in AI and psychological assessment. Experience in interdisciplinary collaboration with psychologists, mental health practitioners, and stakeholders is also valuable for integrating AI tools into real-world applications. Additionally, effective communication and project management skills are required to coordinate with the industry partner.

• Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants.  If you are an international applicant who is currently offshore please consider the viability of travelling costs before submitting an expression of interest. Please see the FAQs web page for requirements for offshore international applicants.
• Applicants must have completed, or expect to complete, a bachelors degree with honours equivalent to second class division A honours or a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a bachelor honours degree or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment in accordance with Schedule One of the HDR Scholarship Procedure.  For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.

International applicants should ensure that English Language Proficiency requirements for the program are met before formally applying. Applicants to research programs will need to show they meet:

1. A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0 OR
2. A minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE OR
3. A score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19

Additional Information

About the scholarship
The 2025 Griffith Industry PhD Scholarship Scheme has an annual stipend of $50,000 for a period of up to three years of full-time study. Please see the Industry PhD Scholarship for more information.

A successful International applicant will also be awarded a Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship to cover tuition fees for up to three years. Please see the GUIPRS Conditions of Award for more information.

What Griffith offers
As a scholarship holder, you will study with a University that ranks among the top 2% worldwide and spans across campuses in South East Queensland. At Griffith University, we’ve worked hard to create a culture that will challenge you to be curious, creative and courageous. We also support the professional and personal development of all our HDR candidates and invest in the skills of our people. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).

EoI process
Please do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest (EoI) must be submitted to j.jo@griffith.edu.au containing:

• Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
• Research proposal
• Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the about you section, including a  copy of your academic transcript
• A curriculum vitae (CV) using the Griffith CV template.
• Two reference letters

Closing date for expressions of interest is:  Friday 08 August 2025 5pm AEST

The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line

For project related enquiries please contact:
Associate Professor Jun Jo
Email: j.jo@griffith.edu.au

For administration enquiries please contact:
Griffith Graduate Research School
Email: hdr-scholarship@griffith.edu.au