New York Boosts AI Initiatives at Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University has secured a significant investment of $5 million from New York State, aimed at developing its newly formed Department of Technology, AI and Society. Governor Kathy Hochul announced this funding, which will span three years, to foster advancements in artificial intelligence education and research.
This initiative will support various programs including faculty hiring, graduate and undergraduate research opportunities, internships, and technological advancements. Carl W. Lejuez, the executive vice president and provost, stated, ‘Many of our faculty and students are already exploring and applying how artificial intelligence can be integrated and applied to their fields.’ He expressed confidence that the new department would be a prime destination for those looking to lead advancements in AI’s societal implications.
Building on the existing Department of Technology and Society, the new structure aims to facilitate interdisciplinary research and integrate AI’s applications across multiple domains such as energy, healthcare, and the arts, focusing on ethics and social justice.
Andrew C. Singer, dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, emphasized this collaborative approach, saying, ‘This is an exciting opportunity, and I’m eager to see it develop across our campus ecosystem.’
To kickstart this initiative, three working groups have been established to propose innovative undergraduate and graduate programs that will attract students from around the globe.
Klaus Mueller, interim chair of the current Department of Technology and Society, remarked, ‘This is a tremendous opportunity to take what we are already doing well and reshape it into something special and interdisciplinary.’ Stony Brook is among eight SUNY campuses sharing funding to enhance AI-focused academic programs.
In support of this initiative, Governor Hochul stated, ‘Investing in AI within the SUNY system is an investment in our students to expand their knowledge about what the future will bring.’ Thus, New York is positioning itself as a leader in AI education and research, with the aim of shaping AI technologies for societal benefit.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. added, ‘Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, SUNY researchers, faculty, and students are leading the way in using AI to advance the public good.’
