Cohort: ESOL 39 

Topic of the thesis: Artificial intelligence in organizations: how AI can affect employees' wellbeing

Abstract: Technological advancements (Kane, 2017; Budhwar et al., 2023; Janssen et al., 2020; McAfee et al., 2012) and disruptive events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic (Gigauri, 2020), have brought about rapid transformations within organizations, with technology adoption emerging as a critical concern. Among these changes, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the human-technology interface has gained significance, particularly in relation to automation levels and their impact on employee well-being (Parker and Grote, 2022; Budhwar, 2023). This PhD project aims to investigate the relationships between AI technology and employee well-being (psychological, spiritual, physical, and social) based on Alagaraja's framework (2020), and the levels of AI automation (assisting, arresting, augmenting, automating) as proposed by Murray (2021).
The theoretical foundation of this project lies in the socio-technical systems theory (Pettigrew, 1985), incorporating the theories of Job demands and Job resources (Bakker & Demerouti, 2017), as well as the task-technology fit model (Goodhue & Thompson, 1995). Through an interdisciplinary approach and empirical investigations, this study seeks to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the human-centered and sustainable integration of technology in the workplace.
The research will be structured into four work packages: first, research design and stakeholder network will be established through a comprehensive literature review and desk research. Second, an AI and well-being framework will be developed, explored through focus groups, and validated through a diary study design. In the third phase, an intervention will be devised, and innovative training on AI and job design will be implemented to evaluate its impact on individual well-being using a pretest-posttest design. The final stage will involve the dissemination of results and the formulation of guidelines for researchers, managers, and policymakers to maximize the project's impact.
This PhD project has the potential to make substantial contributions across scientific, individual, managerial, economic, and social domains. By deepening our understanding of AI's impact on well-being and exploring strategies to promote well-being through technology, this research aims to drive positive and sustainable changes within organizational settings, benefiting both individuals and society (Budhwar, 2023; Garibay et al, 2023). The project's findings hold promise for informing practices, policies, and interventions geared towards enhancing well-being in the workplace and facilitating the responsible integration of AI technology.

Research interests: Human Resource Management, Digital HR, Well being, Artificial Intelligence

Graduated from: BA: Università Milano-Bicocca; MA: Università degli studi di Milano

Degrees obtained: BA: Scienze e tecniche psicologiche; MA: Management of Human Resources

E-mail address:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.