As generative AI becomes an increasingly present tool in the research landscape, using it responsibly and effectively is a critical skill. This interactive workshop is designed for life science researchers who are new to generative AI or looking to enhance their approach.
You will learn to distinguish between commonly used generative AI models and align them to specific research tasks, discuss ethical risks and institutional policy obligations, and address data security and privacy considerations for research data. You will also get hands-on practice writing and refining system prompts tailored to your research area.
What to bring:
If you have access to a generative AI tool such as Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude, we recommend having it open during the session as we will be building prompts together. The workshop is designed so that everyone can participate, with or without access to a tool.
Learning outcomes:
By the end of the workshop you should be able to:
Differentiate between major generative AI models and their suitability for specific research tasks.
Identify ethical risks, potential biases, and core institutional policy requirements.
Identify the security of data storage and privacy implications for different research data types.
Construct and refine an effective system prompt for your research domain.
Lead Trainers:
Dr Angus Fisk, Data Science Trainer, Sydney Informatics Hub, University of Sydney
Dr Minh Huynh, AI in Research Training Lead, Australian BioCommons, & Sydney Informatics Hub, University of Sydney.
Date/Time: 1 July 2026, 1 - 3 pm AEST /12:30 - 2:30 pm ACST / 11 - 1 pm AWST (Check in your timezone)
Format: This online workshop will take place over a two hour session. Expert trainers will introduce new topics and guide you through interactive activities to help you put your new skills into action.
Who the workshop is for:
This workshop is for Australian researchers who have or will work with generative AI tools as part of their projects. You must be associated with an Australian organisation for your application to be considered.
How to apply:
This workshop is free but participation is subject to application with selection.
Applications close at 11:59 pm AEST, 17 June 2026.
Applications will be reviewed by the organising committee and all applicants will be informed of the status of their application (successful, waiting list, unsuccessful). Successful applicants will be provided with a Zoom meeting link closer to the date. More information on the selection process is provided in our Advice on applying for Australian BioCommons workshops.
This workshop is presented by Australian BioCommons, and the Sydney Informatics Hub with the assistance of a network of facilitators from the national Bioinformatics Training Cooperative.
This event is part of a series of bioinformatics training events. If you'd like to hear when registrations open for other events, please subscribe to the Australian BioCommons newsletter