Embracing the Unpredictable PhD Journey

'Although I am your typical poster-girl for thehumanities, majoring in English Literature, German, Classics, and Philosophy, Ielected to do a Master’s in the Philosophy of Science. This involved leaving myhome country, South Africa, and moving to Germany for two years which, amongother things, involved a lot of hitherto unknown cold as well as eating morekinds of bread than I ever knew existed. This period gave me a betterappreciation for the connection between philosophical work and science. Aftermy Master’s, however, I knew I wanted to work on more projects whosephilosophical character had interesting consequences for societal outcomes.This naturally put artificial intelligence (AI) on my radar. I thus looked forexciting PhD opportunities which emphasised interdisciplinary collaboration andtook seriously the philosophical insights relevant to research in AI. Finally,I found exactly what I was looking for at REAiHL (the Responsible and EthicalArtificial Intelligence in Healthcare Lab), where I am now working on theethics of AI for the intensive care unit.

At REAiHL, there is a place for everyone interested inmaking an impact in responsible AI for healthcare. The challenge, however, isall about finding ways to weaponise one’s unique combination of skills,background, and insights in order to realise better, more efficientcollaborations – both with other researchers as well as with industry partners.Although this can be hard work, it is also endlessly rewarding for someone likeme, trained predominantly in theoretical philosophy, to work with data engineers,physicians and software engineers alike, in the pursuit of a common goal –namely, to develop and improve clinical AI, generating real-world value.  

Admittedly, it does sometimes feel like my colleaguesand I speak different languages – or at least different dialects. Workingwithin such separate paradigms can, at times, feel like an obstacle, or aserious exercise in translation. On the other hand, however, theseexceptionally diverse collaborations can force you to re-examine your ownposition, re-focus your research, or, on re-inspection, totally change tack forthe better.

One of the big highlights so far –  one hard-fought and won – has to be my firstpublication in a medical journal. It feels like the first step in participatingin a productive interdisciplinary dialogue around responsible AI. In the nextfew years, I am looking forward to taking the conversation further.'

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