Exploring the Future of Search: ADM+S PhD Student Presents at ACM Web Conference 2025
Author
Date 19 May 2025
Sara Fahad Dawood Al Lawati, a PhD student from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society (ADM+S) at RMIT University, recently presented her research at The ACM Web Conference 2025 in Sydney.
Her paper, “I Am Not a Caveman: An Eye-Tracking Study of How Users are Influenced to Search in the Era of GenAI”, introduces a novel methodology to explore whether we are experiencing a generational shift in how people search for information online. By combining eye-tracking technology with an analysis of user interactions, Sara investigates how generative AI is reshaping the way people seek and engage with information.
The ACM Web Conference is an international event that focuses on the future directions of the World Wide Web. It brings together researchers, developers, users, and commercial ventures to discuss the evolution of the web, the standardisation of its technologies, and their impact on society and culture.
As part of the PhD Symposium track, Sara was paired with a mentor who helped her reflect on the direction and impact of her research.
“I was inspired to think about how I can make my work more impactful,” Sara said.
“The conference helped me generate great ideas for the next steps in my research.”
In addition to presenting, Sara volunteered at the conference—gaining behind-the-scenes experience in how international conferences are organised, while also making valuable connections with fellow student attendees.
At the event, Sara reconnected with ADM+S researchers from across Australia, met RMIT alumni now working in other states, and exchanged ideas with PhD students working in related fields. These interactions have already laid the groundwork for potential collaborative lab visits in Sydney and Dublin, which she plans to pursue during her candidature.
Inspired by the conference, Sara now aims to publish both her research findings and resource papers that make her methodologies reusable by others—particularly those working across disciplines.
“I’ve come to realise the importance of creating scalable and shareable research tools,” she noted.
“We need reproducible methodologies in computer science, especially for user studies.”
Reflecting on her experience, Sara encouraged other PhD students to submit to doctoral symposiums, apply for travel awards, and volunteer at conferences.
“If a major conference is happening in your city, don’t hesitate—submit a paper, volunteer, attend,” she said.
“It’s a great opportunity to share your work, learn from others, and build lasting research connections.”
Sara attended the conference with support from a travel award from the ACM Web Conference and funding through the ADM+S HDR Funding Scheme.
