Macquarie University lecturer Ines Hipolito is helping organisations implement ethical AI practices
Ines and AI go way back – long before we all got ChatGPT. However it’s not developing the tech that excites the Macquarie University academic, it’s the philosophy behind how we use and interact with it that’s driven her pathway.
“I specialise in the intricacies of human cognition and artificial intelligence,” she says. “I explore questions about cognition, perception and intelligence.”
Kickstarting her career in Germany, Ines completed a Bachelor of Philosophy, two master’s degrees and a PhD before scoring a job at the Berlin School of Mind and Brain. It was then that she made the move to Sydney to do her PhD. And now? She’s a lecturer at Macquarie University — while keeping up with her other roles, which
include being a startup founder!
“I’m receiving mentorship to bring AI ethics to the market.”
Best of both worlds
With a background in philosophy and neuroscience plus a passion for tech, Ines’ diverse
skillset has allowed her to be a bridge-builder between disciplines.
Along with her lecturing work, she currently works as an AI ethicist at US-based cognitive computing company VERSES, where she champions ethical considerations, inclusivity and environmental responsibility into AI design.
And then there’s the startup which she founded through the Macquarie University Incubator program, which encourages entrepreneurs to grow and realise their innovations.
“It’s called Mission AI!” she says. “I’m receiving mentorship to bring AI ethics to the market – advising organisations in cultivating an ethical culture.”
Day in the life…
6am
Dial into an early morning video call with my US colleagues – aligning on projects and exchanging ideas.
9am
Arrive at Macquarie University ready to tackle the day. I always start with catching up on emails and then dive into any ongoing projects.
1pm
Attend a seminar to spark knowledge and get inspiration.
3pm
Meet with colleagues to discuss scientific paper collaborations and organise upcoming conferences.
4pm
Dedicate one-on-one time to supervising my students, where I offer guidance, feedback and support.
Ines’s Pathway
- Bachelor of Philosophy, Nova University of Lisbon
- Masters of Philosophy, Lusophone University of Lisbon
- Masters of Cognitive Science, University of Lisbon
- PhD in Philosophy, University of Wollongong
- Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Lecturer
- Lecturer Philosophy, Macquarie University
- Founder & CEO, Mission AI (Macquarie University Incubator)
- Ethics of AI Advisor, VERSES
This profile first appeared in Careers with STEM: AI Ethicist 2026 in collaboration with Macquarie University
