AISOC’s research and activities are driven by a commitment to understanding and shaping the role of artificial intelligence in society. Our focus spans a wide range of thematic areas that reflect the complexity of AI’s interactions with individuals, communities, and institutions. From ethical design to global policy, public trust to environmental impact, we engage with the opportunities and challenges AI presents across diverse sectors and cultural contexts.
Ethics and Human-Centred Design
We explore the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and promote human-centred design principles across AI systems. Our research examines fairness, transparency, and accountability, with the aim of supporting technologies that align with fundamental human rights and values.
Regulation, Governance, and Global AI Policy
Our work contributes to the development of effective governance frameworks for AI, comparing regulatory approaches across jurisdictions and supporting capacity-building in public institutions. We assess the impact of laws, standards, and multilateral efforts such as the EU AI Act and OECD principles.
Public Understanding and Misinformation
AISOC is committed to improving public literacy about AI and combating myths, misinformation, and hype. We develop accessible resources and run community engagement initiatives that empower individuals to critically evaluate algorithmic systems and their social impacts.
AI and the Future of Work
We analyse how AI is reshaping employment, skills, and labour relations across sectors. Our focus includes automation, workplace surveillance, algorithmic management, and policy strategies to ensure a just transition for workers in the digital economy.
Social Justice and Algorithmic Discrimination
We investigate how AI can reinforce or challenge social inequalities, particularly in relation to race, gender, disability, and economic status. Our research advocates for inclusive data practices, intersectional design, and participatory methods that amplify underrepresented voices.
AI in Education, Health, and Human Development
From adaptive learning systems to predictive health models, we explore the potential and limitations of AI in public services. Our work assesses the ethical deployment of AI in education and healthcare, and the implications for wellbeing, trust, and equity.
Cross-Cultural and Global South Perspectives
We highlight the importance of cultural context and geopolitical power in AI development. AISOC supports decolonial approaches and knowledge exchange with partners in the Global South, challenging data colonialism and promoting culturally aware innovation.
Climate, Sustainability, and Digital Infrastructure
Our research considers the environmental costs and potential of AI—from energy-intensive computation to climate modelling and sustainable logistics. We assess how AI can support or hinder ecological resilience and planetary justice.
Psychology, Behaviour, and Human-AI Interaction
We study how people understand, trust, and respond to AI systems, exploring cognitive biases, behavioural patterns, and emotional responses. This work informs the development of socially attuned and psychologically aware AI interfaces.
