COLLEGE PARK, Md. — In a major initiative to shape the future of technology, the University of Maryland today unveiled its Artificial Intelligence Interdisciplinary Institute at Maryland (AIM). This new hub aims to integrate AI education, research, and leadership development, promoting ethical AI use to benefit public sectors across industry, government, and society.
Pioneering AI Education and Research
University of Maryland President Darryll J. Pines heralded the institute as a crucial step forward in the AI field: “Artificial intelligence continues to grow exponentially, creating opportunities to solve the grand challenges of our time. With this institute, our experts will work together to globally lead responsible AI development that spurs economic growth and promotes human well-being. We’re not just adapting to the AI age but shaping its future.”
The institute will bolster UMD’s already robust AI infrastructure, including several foundational research centers and initiatives like the Center for Machine Learning and the Value-Centered AI Initiative. Such resources will play a pivotal role in AIM’s operations, leveraging a diverse array of faculty expertise from various disciplines.
Interdisciplinary Approach to AI Mastery
UMD’s Senior Vice President and Provost, Jennifer King Rice, emphasized the interdisciplinary nature of the new institute: “By uniting our efforts under one institute, we will not only become a magnet for ethical AI development and research but a global leader in preparing students and the workforce for an AI-infused world.”
AIM will offer new AI-focused academic programs and certificates, alongside expanded undergraduate courses and high-performance computing resources. The initiative also includes financial incentives for AI research and new faculty positions to enhance its educational impact.
Leadership and Future Directions
Hal Daumé III, appointed as the inaugural director of AIM, and associates Neda Atanasoski and Sheena Erete will steer the institute towards enhancing human capabilities and addressing societal challenges through AI. The institute aligns with state and national efforts to harness AI responsibly, supported by recent executive orders from Maryland Governor Wes Moore and President Biden.
Funding for AIM will come from a combination of university budget allocations, research grants, philanthropic contributions, and industry partnerships.
About the University of Maryland
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