UCF Launches Institute of Artificial Intelligence to Propel Research and Talent Development
UCF has launched an Institute of Artificial Intelligence to strengthen research and talent in the AI domain.
Key Points
- • UCF has inaugurated the Institute of Artificial Intelligence (IAI) to advance AI research.
- • The IAI aims to unite over 25 faculty members and industry partners for interdisciplinary collaboration.
- • UCF's computer vision research ranks 8th nationally, with major funding support.
- • The initiative includes partnerships with key organizations like Leidos and Mitsubishi Power.
The University of Central Florida (UCF) has inaugurated the Institute of Artificial Intelligence (IAI) as part of a strategic effort to bolster AI research and education. This initiative, unveiled on July 30, 2025, aims to establish UCF as a national leader in AI by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among faculty, students, and industry partners.
UCF President Alexander N. Cartwright highlighted the initiative's role in enhancing the university's research capabilities and preparing students for a rapidly evolving technology landscape. The IAI will bring together more than 25 faculty members from various disciplines to focus on foundational and applied AI research encompassing areas such as computer vision, robotics, and healthcare. Notably, UCF's computer vision research ranks eighth nationally, supported by substantial external funding from agencies like DARPA and the NSF.
Mubarak Shah, appointed as the first director of the IAI, emphasized the potential for cross-disciplinary collaboration to innovate solutions across various fields. In the past two years, UCF has expanded its AI faculty by ten members, with eight more anticipated in the upcoming fall semester.
Moreover, the IAI will bolster UCF’s AI for All Initiative, which seeks to integrate AI technology and education across all academic disciplines. Industry partners, including Leidos and Mitsubishi Power, have expressed strong enthusiasm for the institute, recognizing its potential in advancing national security and addressing operational challenges in technology.
In summary, the launch of the IAI at UCF marks a significant investment in AI research and development, emphasizing the university's commitment to education and innovation in the field.