Photo courtesy of Salvador Alejandri.
Artificial intelligence is perhaps the fastest growing technology the world has ever seen. It’s managed to make its way into our everyday lives in ways we sometimes don’t even realize. Whether you’re intentionally using it to get ChatGPT to make you a grocery list or watching a movie on Netflix based on a recommendation from their AI algorithm.
Now, the University of New Brunswick is launching a brand-new research institute to study and develop the technology of the future. The UNB Research Institute in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (RIDSAI) is focused on studying and developing the technologies of the future. Students and faculty will learn how to leverage the capabilities of AI for everything from disease modeling to gaming. They will also discuss the ethical, legal, and political ramifications of these technologies, to make sure it runs smoothly and behaves safely.
The school made the announcement earlier this week with former premier Frank McKenna in attendance. McKenna is the benefactor of UNB’s McKenna Institute, an entrepreneurial centre driving digital transformation in New Brunswick who along with other donors are investing $3.5 million into the new project.
The RIDSAI will be led by Dr. Paul Cook, an associate professor of computer science and researcher who explores the intersection of AI and human language.
“The potential applications – and benefits – of data science and AI are limited only by our imagination… By working collaboratively, as researchers, industry, and community, we can combine our creativity and our expertise to benefit New Brunswick, Atlantic Canada and beyond,” he said in press release.
With AI seemingly becoming the dominant technology overnight, UNB is making sure they stay ahead of the (machine)learning curve.
