Simon Ocallaghan

Background

About Simon Ocallaghan

With over 15 years of experience in artificial intelligence and machine learning, I specialise in bridging the gap between technical innovation and responsible governance. My work focuses on the design, evaluation, and oversight of AI systems; ensuring they are effective, trustworthy, and aligned with ethical and societal values. As Principal Researcher and Co-Founder at Gradient Institute, I have advised leading organisations across finance, retail, recruitment, and the public sector on AI risk, governance frameworks, and practical implementation of responsible AI principles. I have also co-authored several high-impact reports, including Guidance for AI Adoption (National AI Centre 2025), Implementing Australia’s AI Ethics Principles (CSIRO, 2023) and De-Risking Automated Decisions (2022). My academic foundation includes a PhD in machine learning from the University of Sydney, where my research on Bayesian non-parametric models for autonomous perception advanced core methods in probabilistic AI. I continue to contribute to the international AI community through publications, teaching, and standards work. I’m passionate about ensuring that AI technologies are deployed responsibly, transparently, and for public benefit.