Using AI for Suppliers' Modern Slavery Prevention

About this project 

Harness technology to help eliminate modern slavery

If you are driven to develop your career in artificial intelligence and machine learning and passionate about addressing the global issue of labour exploitation and modern slavery, the University of South Australia – Australia’s University of Enterprise – is offering a hands-on project-based PhD with real-world, societal impact within the Industrial AI (IAI) Research Centre, in partnership with SecuriCode.

Our project aims to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) tool with machine learning (specifically Natural Language Processing) capabilities to help companies detect, predict, and mitigate modern slavery risks in their operations and supply chains. By analysing supplier-related information from public/news media and social networks globally, the tool can help manage social risks quickly and efficiently.

This tool will provide real-time alerts to notify procurement, supply chain, and/or sustainability managers of potential labour exploitation and modern slavery risks in their supply chains. We also want to simplify and streamline complex analytics to help companies engage directly with suppliers on sustainability improvements.

Our technology should enable procurement and supply chain teams to promptly investigate issues and consider countermeasures. Our overarching aim is to help uncover violations and contribute to better social and environmental conditions (hence advancing ESG) among suppliers.

You will be co-located at the IAI research institute and the Centre for Enterprise Dynamics in Global Economies (C-EDGE). These institutes are both dedicated to advancing innovative solutions through AI and promoting inclusive and sustainable business practices globally. 

You will benefit from IAI’s cutting-edge research facilities, access to leading AI researchers, and opportunities to collaborate on projects that have significant industry impact. Both centres embody a collaborative approach, leveraging specialist skills across various fields to address complex technology, enterprise and economic challenges. 

You will receive mentorship and training from highly regarded researchers and experts in their fields. You will also benefit from collaboration with the Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML) at the University of Adelaide. AIML is renowned for its expertise in AI and machine learning and this partnership provides additional resources, expertise, and networking opportunities, enriching your research experience.

What you’ll do

In this project-based research degree, you will collect and analyse large datasets from sources like modern slavery statements and social/news media, and then develop machine learning models to identify risk patterns. 

Collaborating closely with our industry advisor, you will gain practical insights to ensure that the AI tool meets real-world needs. There may be opportunities to travel within Australia to meet with industry stakeholders and attend workshops. 

Subject to availability and approval, opportunities for placements or internships with partner organisations may arise, providing you with an immersive industry experience. Under the guidance of the supervisory team, you will also develop journal articles and industry reports and present your research findings at national and international conferences.

This is an opportunity to undertake meaningful research, working at the intersection of AI, supply chain management, ethics, and sustainability. Upon completion, your skills, knowledge and experience will put you at the forefront of AI applications in ethical supply chain management.

Where you’ll be based

You will be based within IAI. We bring together experts from across computer sciences to develop solutions for autonomous and augmented intelligence systems. We are a part of the global revolution in artificial intelligence, machine learning, Industry 4.0 and Internet-of-Things (IoT) technologies. 

Our researchers work with organisations around the world to develop solutions that cater to their specific needs. We have worked with Siemens, BP Australia, Yokogawa Electric and more, growing these partnerships over time to continually design sophisticated AI-driven solutions. 

The Industrial AI Research Centre has the skills and knowledge to meet demand and lead the next technological revolution. Financial Support

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $35,200 per annum (2025 rate) is available to eligible applicants. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $52,352 (2025 rate) per annum. A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship please refer to our scholarship information for domestic students or international students.
 
Eligibility and Selection

This project is open to applications from both Domestic and International applicants. 

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD. All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project.

Additionally applicants must meet the project selection criteria: 

• Strong background in Computer Science, Data Science, AI or Engineering
• Knowledge and experience in Natural Language Processing/Foundation Models and Machine Learning
• Demonstrated proficiency in Python Programming 

Applicants who can also demonstrate the following will be highly regarded:

• Knowledge of procurement/supply chain and modern slavery/labour exploitation
• Demonstrated experience in academic research

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and be based at our City West campus in the heart of Adelaide.

Essential Dates

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Wednesday 27 November 2024.