Strengthening AI Research at Auburn University at Montgomery with NSF Grant
In an exciting development for advancing technology education, Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) has been awarded a substantial $400,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). This grant aims to enhance AUM’s prowess in artificial intelligence (AI) research and education, a pivotal step in preparing students for a rapidly evolving global workforce.
Understanding Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformative field of science focused on creating machines and computers capable of reasoning, learning, and performing tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence. This often involves the analysis of data complexities beyond human reach. As industries increasingly rely on AI, expertise in this field has become invaluable, prompting educational institutions like AUM to respond robustly.
AUM’s Vision for AI Education
With the funding from NSF, AUM plans to enhance its AI capabilities, blending this field across various domains such as:
- Sciences
- Engineering
- Education
- Environmental Science
- Health
Olcay Kursun, an esteemed AI researcher and principal investigator of the grant, emphasized AUM’s commitment to furnishing students with critical AI skills to thrive in technology-driven environments. “Our initiatives align with fostering innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and expanding access to AI education for diverse student populations,” said Kursun.
A Strong Foundation in AI Research
AUM has already established a robust foundation in the realm of AI through its College of Sciences. Here, faculty and students engage in machine learning (ML) and deep learning research, tackling subjects such as:
- Bioinformatics
- Structural Biology
- Neuroscience
- Environmental Science
- Mathematics
- Cybersecurity
Establishing a Student-Friendly ML Lab
The grant will facilitate the creation of a dedicated ML-Lab, specially designed to offer hands-on experience with AI tools, providing a practical learning environment for students across multiple disciplines. “This lab will augment and expand our existing AI infrastructure on campus,” Kursun explained, highlighting plans to leverage a previously developed AI lab within the College of Business.
Integration Across Colleges
This two-year initiative will weave AI education into AUM’s five colleges:
- Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
- Business
- Sciences
- Education
- Nursing and Health Sciences
The goal is to offer more students an integrative and comprehensive learning journey in AI, equipping them with the tools needed to innovate and excel.
A Collaborative Effort
The project will see collaboration from AUM faculty members Sutanu Bhattacharya, Benedict Okeke, and Randy Russell, who will serve as co-principal investigators. They will work alongside undergraduate and graduate student researchers to bolster research endeavors and support grant activities across the university’s colleges.
Encouraging Diversity in AI Fields
A vital aspect of AUM’s AI initiatives is the focus on promoting inclusivity within technology fields. By ensuring that underrepresented groups, including African American and female students, play a leading role in AI research activities, AUM is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive academic environment.
Olcay Kursun noted, “Our efforts are geared not only towards advancing knowledge but also in ensuring access and opportunity for all students, particularly those marginalized in traditional STEM fields.”
The Future of AI at AUM
This grant marks a significant milestone for AUM, positioning the university as a key player in AI education and research. By expanding its curriculum and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, AUM is set to produce graduates who are well-prepared to meet the increasing demands of a technology-centric workforce.
For more information on how AUM plans to utilize this NSF grant, you can learn more here.
Tags: News, Montgomery Alabama, Auburn University at Montgomery, National Science Foundation, Federal Grant, Science, Engineering
Source: https://www.apr.org/news/2024-12-09/aum-earns-400k-national-science-foundation-grant-to-strengthen-ai-research