Students at UMass Lowell engage in hands-on artificial intelligence research and career-connected experiences through the Center for AI Computing Research (AICORE). (UMass Lowell Photo)

LOWELL – Artificial intelligence research at UMass Lowell has long spanned disciplines, from science and engineering to business, health and the humanities. Now, the university is bringing that expertise together through the new Center for AI Computing Research (AICORE) to accelerate innovation, strengthen industry partnerships and prepare students for careers in AI.

Through AICORE, UMass Lowell is expanding its capacity to translate AI research into real-world applications in defense, healthcare, robotics and beyond.

The center is also creating new opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in a rapidly evolving field.

“AICORE strengthens our ability to connect research with real-world applications and deepen our partnerships with industry,” said Anne Maglia, vice chancellor for research, innovation and economic development. “By expanding opportunities for students to engage in applied AI research, we are preparing them to lead in a field that is rapidly transforming every sector of the economy.”

AICORE focuses on three critical areas:

• AI safety, interpretability and alignment, to develop trustworthy AI systems that behave predictably
• Building more efficient and effective AI models from new foundations
• Interactive AI systems and real-world applications, to create AI systems that effectively interact with humans in practical, real-world settings

“AICORE is designed to push the boundaries of what AI can do while ensuring it remains safe, interpretable and aligned with human needs,” said Anna Rumshisky, director of AICORE and an associate professor in the Miner School of Computer and Information Sciences. “Our faculty bring expertise from computer science, engineering, social science and business, enabling a uniquely interdisciplinary approach to the most pressing challenges in AI.”

AICORE will expand opportunities for students to engage in career-connected experiences through hands-on research. By working alongside faculty and industry collaborators, students will gain practical skills applying AI in real-world settings, positioning them for in-demand roles across a range of sectors.

“AICORE will ensure our students are experienced in the types of applied AI projects that reflect the future of this technology in the real world,” said Paul Bryce, interim dean of the Kennedy College of Sciences. “By connecting cutting-edge learning in AI with hands-on research and industry experience, our students will be ready for success in the AI-focused careers of tomorrow.”