Head of RI-Lab, Ehsan Nabavi, Awarded ABC Residency
Head of RI-Lab, Dr Ehsan Nabavi, has been recognised as one of the Australia’s most promising academic communicators with a sought-after ABC Top 5 residency.
In a rapidly evolving world driven by technological advancements, the intersection of innovation and ethical and environmental concerns has become an indispensable focal point for society’s sustainable progress.
“I believe in the power of technology to transform lives positively, but it must be done responsibly, with ‘responsibility’ at the forefront,” says Dr. Ehsan Nabavi, Senior Lecturer in Technology and Society at the Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science (CPAS).
Dr. Nabavi has emerged as a visionary in this arena, earning a coveted spot in the prestigious 2023 ABC TOP 5 Media Residency Program – Humanities. His journey from civil engineer to sociologist and AI researcher showcases a unique blend of skills and expertise.
At the forefront of Dr. Nabavi’s accomplishments lies the establishment and leadership of ANU’s Responsible Innovation Lab, a research lab dedicated to research and experimentation in the realm of responsible innovation.
“I am deeply committed to advancing the ethical frontiers of computing and modeling, including the conversation around Responsible AI,” Dr. Nabavi elaborates. “By examining the delicate balance between technological advancements and socio-environmental considerations, I try to explore the profound implications of AI on society through a holistic lens. We all want to ensure that our technological progress aligns with ethical principles in the society and addresses existing societal inequalities, not exacerbating them.”
The ABC TOP 5 Media Residency Program provides Australia’s most promising academic communicators an extraordinary platform to share their trailblazing research with a broader audience.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity. We need a national conversation about responsible solutions for Australia’s most pressing and complex challenges, from AI to health and climate change” says Dr. Nabavi.
“Investigating the implications of technological advancements is crucial to ensure that they serve as a force for good rather than exacerbating existing inequalities.”
Dr. Nabavi believes that responsible thinking and engagement are paramount in bridging the gap between academia and the public to promote the responsible design, development, and deployment of any life-shaping innovation.
The recognition of Dr. Nabavi’s contributions underscores the growing importance of social, ethical, and environmental considerations in the technological domain, and the profound impact that effective communication can have in fostering responsible decision-making.
Link to ABC NEWS