Double Success at ‘Women in AI’ awards

Two researchers from the Faculty of Engineering and IT (FEIT) have been recognised for their contributions to research in artificial intelligence.

Associate Dean, Diversity and Inclusion, Associate Professor Renata Borovica-Gajic, who is also a researcher in the School of Computing and Information Systems, and Dr Mandana Ghanavati, a FEIT alumna and Honorary Fellow in the Department of Infrastructure Engineering, were recognised at the ‘2026 Women in AI Asia Pacific Awards’.

The awards honour women from diverse backgrounds who are making significant advances in the field of artificial intelligence.

Associate Professor Borovica-Gajic received the AI Academic Excellence and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leadership Award for her research focussed on improving data exploration and insight discovery in large, complex databases that are typically used in data-rich industries and scientific research, such as healthcare, finance and astronomy.

As Associate Dean, Diversity and Inclusion within the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, Associate Professor Borovica-Gajic is passionate about breaking stereotypes in technology.

Speaking at the award ceremony, she encouraged people of all backgrounds to explore the field.

"Computers know no gender. Algorithms know no gender," she said.

"Why should we as a society make this distinction and propagate these stereotypes and exclude women from the field? We need to build technology for all of society. And we can achieve that only if we work together and bring all of our voices together."

Dr Ghanavati was recognised for her impact on applied AI research over the past decade, winning the AI in Climate and Environment Category.

Her work has focused on the integration and application of AI systems across climate hazards, coastal risk and public safety.

She completed her PhD in Infrastructure Engineering in FEIT, researching the impact of global climate change on coastal erosion, and now maintains her connection as an Honorary Fellow.

She aims to use AI to help address challenges across climate, environment, geospatial science and public safety.

"I’m committed to advancing the practical and responsible application of AI to real-world challenges, and to contributing to a future where the success of women opens doors for those who follow,” she said.