Scaling Human and Artificial Intelligence: Workforce Capability for Regional Economic Growth

About the research project

This PhD project examines how regional organisations can scale human capability alongside artificial intelligence adoption so that AI strengthens work, productivity and regional economic growth rather than benefiting only already well-resourced organisations.

Using Tasmania as the primary regional context, the project will investigate the workforce and organisational conditions that help businesses and public organisations translate AI from tools into changed work practices, improved decision-making and sustainable value creation. The focus is on capability inside organisations: how people understand AI, identify appropriate use cases, redesign tasks and processes, manage risk, build confidence, and embed AI into business and operational routines.

The project is aligned with the emerging Work Observatory concept and is intended as a first-stage, PhD-scale research stream. It will not attempt to run the full longitudinal observatory. Instead, it will build foundational evidence, research instruments and an early capability framework that can later inform a larger longitudinal program. Regional development authorities, such as RDA Tasmania and Cradle Coast Authority, may be involved as context advisers or observers rather than as the main subject of the research. Their value is in helping the project remain aware of regional economic priorities, not in shifting the project’s focus to the authorities themselves. James Riggall is proposed as an adjunct co-supervisor, contributing applied expertise in digital transformation, creative technology and industry-engaged AI adoption.

The expected outcome is an evidence-informed framework for understanding and strengthening workforce AI capability within regional organisations. The project will contribute to research on human-AI collaboration, organisational change, regional innovation and productivity, while producing practical value for businesses, industry partners and policy stakeholders.

Publication during the project is an expectation. Potential publication venues include journals such as Computers adn Human Behaviour. The supervisory team will provide research and writing support throughout the publication process.

Primary supervisor

Meet Professor Kristy de Salas

Funding

Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:

• a living allowance stipend funded by University of Tasmania of $34,315 per annum for 3.5 years
• a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
• a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

A tuition fee offset may be offered to eligible international applicants following competitive assessment 

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees for undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

• Applicants should be eligible for admission to a PhD at the University of Tasmania and have a strong academic background relevant to ICT, information systems, business, management, economics, workforce studies, regional development, organisational change or a related field.
• Applicants should be able to undertake industry-engaged research with professional stakeholders and communicate clearly with both academic and non-academic audiences.

Selection criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:

• Capacity to conduct independent research; strong written communication skills
• Interest in AI adoption, workforce capability and regional development
• Ability to undertake interviews, workshops or qualitative fieldwork
• Ability to engage professionally with industry and regional stakeholders
• Willingness to work across ICT, organisational and economic development perspectives

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Experience with qualitative research methods, stakeholder engagement, policy or industry research, digital transformation, AI literacy or capability-building
• Knowledge of regional economies, small and medium enterprises or workforce development
• Confidence using research software for qualitative analysis
• Experience working with businesses, government, councils or industry bodies

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Professor Kristy de Salas to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
3. In your application:
   • Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
   • Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
4. Apply prior to 1 October 2026.

Full details of the application process can be found under the ' How to apply ' section of the Research Degrees website.

Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.

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