Becki Cook

Becki Cook is a Nunukul Aboriginal woman and Researcher at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), pursuing a PhD in the School of Mathematical Sciences. She serves as Early Career Researcher Co-Leader for the Data Science and AI in Society Theme at QUT's Centre for Data Science. Her work focuses on Indigenous data literacy and methodologies, advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in data science. Previously, she was Centre Manager at QUT’s Centre for Data Science (2021–2024), fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. With 15+ years in education, she has taught science/mathematics and coordinated student success programs across secondary and tertiary sectors.

Education:

• Master of Education and Professional Studies Research (Griffith University, 2021)
• Graduate Diploma in Education (Secondary) (QUT, 2012)
• Bachelor of Science (Griffith University, 2007)

Research Interests: Becki’s research integrates Indigenous knowledge systems with data science, emphasizing ethical frameworks and community empowerment. She explores how Indigenous methodologies can reshape data practices to prioritize cultural integrity and equity. Recent work includes analyzing Indigenous student retention in universities and co-authoring submissions on AI ethics for global policy forums.

Awards & Scholarships:

• Research Centre Top-Up Scholarship
• Indigenous Postgraduate Research Award Scholarship

Grants & Advising: Supported through multiple research scholarships; her advisory focus centers on Indigenous postgraduate development through initiatives like writing retreats. She collaborates with diverse teams across academia and industry to advance equitable data practices.

Labs/Teams: Active in QUT’s Centre for Data Science and Indigenous Data Science Research groups, contributing to projects on AI governance and community data sovereignty.