Vanita Fernandes | PhD candidate, Applied Philosophy
For Vanita Fernandes, graduate studies are about more than theory - they are about solving real-world challenges. Her journey began with a realization during her undergraduate years.
“In my undergraduate studies at the University of Guelph, I took a bioethics course that changed my academic direction. I was drawn to the way philosophical reasoning could directly engage real-world challenges in the medical context, and I knew I wanted to pursue a career in bioethics.”
After completing her MA, Vanita chose Waterloo’s Philosophy graduate program for its unique focus. “I discovered the PhD in Applied Philosophy and knew it would be the perfect fit. Choosing this program has been the best decision I could have made, and I often reflect on how lucky and grateful I am to be studying here.”
Pioneering research in AI ethics
Vanita’s dissertation addresses urgent ethical questions regarding the integration of technology in patient care.
“My dissertation explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. I argue that to responsibly harness the benefits of AI, we need to have effective policies in place to guide its ethical use. Specifically, I evaluate the harms to autonomy and knowledge that could be caused by mental health chatbots and predictive algorithms.”
Supported by a program that prioritizes professional growth, Vanita has successfully translated her research into scholarly milestones.
“The supportive environment created by the Philosophy department has reinforced a strong sense of academic belonging and professional responsibility. This support has also facilitated publication of my research in a peer-reviewed journal... and helped me secure two scholarships, OGS (2024,2025) and SSHRC (2025).”
Hands-on experience and professional success
The program’s emphasis on applied learning has allowed Vanita to excel in clinical settings. Her three-month placement with Trillium Health Partners’ Regional Ethics Program was a masterclass in the real-world application of her academic work.
“This experience allowed me to work alongside ethicists and medical professionals, contribute to discussions about implementing AI in healthcare, and participate in hospital rounds, strengthening my interest in a career in clinical ethics.”
The results were immediate: she was appointed as a voting member of the Artificial Intelligence Research Ethics Board and secured a research project with the University Health Network (UHN). “I began to recognize the value of my contributions. This gave me the self-assurance to approach the University Health Network (UHN) for additional research opportunities.”
A supportive, empowering community
Vanita notes that Waterloo offers a level of support that translates into tangible success. “The Philosophy department encourages me to align my academic training with careers beyond academia, promoting inclusion by recognizing multiple pathways to success.”
For prospective students — particularly women in the field — the culture at Waterloo is a major draw.
“The department’s collaborative environment has been especially important, enabling me to build connections and strengthen my voice, which has been central to my sense of empowerment and confidence in contributing meaningfully to the discipline.”
As she nears completion of her degree, Vanita is prepared for a high-impact career in clinical ethics “particularly applying philosophical analysis to address the ethical challenges in healthcare with a focus on the growing role of AI in clinical decision-making.”