The University of Waterloo has launched the Waterloo Artificial Intelligence Institute today.
The AI Institute will focus on foundational AI — which includes research in statistical learning, deep learning, game theory, and data science that advances the entire industry — and operational AI, which develops scalable, secure, and transparent solutions for a wide range of applications.
“The launch of Waterloo AI enhances Canada’s leadership in foundational and operational AI as it brings together world-renowned researchers with industry to accelerate innovation and prepare for future disruptions,” said Feridun Hamdullahpur, president and vice-chancellor at Waterloo. “By connecting research talent with industry expertise, Waterloo AI will identify problems and produce solutions that will actively benefit our society.”
Waterloo AI will pursue new areas of research with societal and business impact, including healthcare, environmental protection, urban planning, manufacturing, autonomous systems, and human-machine interaction, and will emphasize timely access to expertise to individuals and industry.
Waterloo AI is a joint venture of the university’s faculties of engineering and mathematics and will also include researchers from arts, applied health sciences, environment, and science. It is affiliated with a number of existing labs, centres and institutes at Waterloo.
“Artificial intelligence is estimated to contribute up to $15.7 trillion per year to the global economy by 2030; if properly leveraged AI willNavdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. “As a world-leader in AI, Canada’s talent and expertise attract millions in foreign investment annually.