CQU researcher gains real-world AI experience through industry internship
A Central Queensland University (CQU) postgraduate researcher is helping shape the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in network operations, thanks to a hands-on industry internship with AARNet.
Uyen Tu Bao, a Master of Research student at CQU, recently completed a three-month placement with AARNet – Australia’s national research and education network provider – where she explored how AI could be applied to enhance operational capabilities while supporting, rather than replacing, human decision-making.
The placement was facilitated by APR.Intern through a fully funded program supported by CQU and the Women in STEM & Entrepreneurship (WiSE) initiative, highlighting the growing role of industry partnerships in preparing research students for real-world challenges.
Turning research into real-world impact
For Uyen, the opportunity offered a chance to bridge the gap between academic theory and industry application.
“I came across an article about funded internships for research students and realised it was a unique opportunity to apply my work in a real-world setting,” she said.
After discussing the opportunity with her academic supervisor, Professor Santoso Wibowo, Uyen identified a placement with AARNet as an ideal fit.
“I wasn’t familiar with AARNet at first, so I took time to understand their work and how I could contribute. Once I did, it became clear it was an exciting opportunity to apply my knowledge in a practical environment,” she said.
During the internship, Uyen collaborated closely with AARNet’s Research and Innovation Engagement team to investigate how AI could support the organisation’s Network Operations Centre – a critical function that monitors and maintains network performance around the clock.
A human-centred approach to AI
Uyen’s project focused on balancing innovation with responsibility, ensuring AI solutions could improve efficiency while maintaining human oversight.
“Many operational tasks are still completed manually, and while AI has the potential to reduce that burden, it’s essential to have a human ‘in the loop’ to ensure accuracy and build trust,” she said.
As part of her work, Uyen conducted a detailed review of AI applications in similar environments, analysed AARNet’s systems and workflows, and developed a proof-of-concept prototype demonstrating how AI could assist engineers.
The prototype simulated real-world scenarios, showing how AI could support tasks such as log analysis, anomaly detection and contextual information retrieval – helping improve efficiency without removing human oversight.
“I wanted to show how AI can enhance human decision-making rather than replace it. That balance is critical for organisations looking to adopt these technologies responsibly,” she said.
Benefits beyond the classroom
Uyen said the experience has had a direct and lasting impact on her research and career development.
“The insights I gained during the internship are informing my thesis and strengthening how I approach real-world applications of AI,” she said.
She also noted the broader value of internships for research students.
“These opportunities allow students to apply their knowledge in an industry setting, build professional networks and better understand how their skills translate beyond academia,” she said.
Building stronger industry connections
CQUniveristy’s PhD Industry Head of Course, Dr Amy-Louise Byrne, said internships like Uyen’s offers a range of benefits for both candidates and industry partners.
“Internships allow students to apply their research skills and technical skills in solving real-world challenges, grow their industry networks, and learn from industry professionals,” she said. “In return, our partners gain new perspectives and knowledge, develop evidence to guide decision-making, and ultimately see improved outcomes for their organisation.”
CQUniversity supports students through a variety of internship pathways, including the Enrich Scholarship which provides recipients with a $10,000 stipend.
A collaborative approach to future talent
Uyen’s internship highlights the growing importance of partnerships between universities, industry and organisations like APR.Intern in building a future-ready workforce.
“The opportunity with AI is significant, but so is the responsibility. This work highlighted the need to balance innovation with strong governance, ensuring any AI we deploy delivers clear value, manages risk, and scales in a way our people can confidently support,” said Chris Fegan, Technology Strategy Manager at AARNet.
APR.Intern Business Development Manager Stacey Hansen said Uyen was an enthusiastic intern.
"Uyen was professional and thoughtful right from our first conversation, and very clear about how she wanted to make a meaningful contribution to the project," she said.
"AARNet were also an exceptional industry host; professional, organised and genuinely invested in providing a valuable internship experience."
By connecting research with real-world challenges, these collaborations not only enhance student learning but also deliver tangible value to industry partners seeking innovative, evidence-based solutions.
For Uyen, the experience has reinforced the role she hopes to play in shaping ethical and practical AI applications. For CQU, it demonstrates how research training can extend beyond the classroom – equipping graduates with the skills, confidence and industry insight needed to make a meaningful impact.
APR.Intern recently shared more about Uyen's experience and project outcomes in this APR.Intern case study.
