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York joins The Turing University Network to advance responsible AI development

Posted on 2 October 2023

New network membership to support the University’s leading research in safe and responsible artificial intelligence (AI) systems.

This image represents the process of machine learning in object recognition. The pixelated tree is a reminder that machines do not see like humans see.

The University of York is an established leader in safe AI and autonomy research and innovation, bringing together computer scientists, mathematicians, sociologists, legal experts, philosophers, and industry experts with its Institute for Safe Autonomy and work across its three faculties.

The Turing University Network provides UK universities with an interest in data science and AI the opportunity to engage and collaborate, both with the Alan Turing Institute and its broader networks.

York’s expertise that will support and benefit from membership of the network includes: 

• The safety assurance of AI-enabled autonomous systems 
• UK leadership in quantum communications 
• The development of communications networks including satellites and high-altitude platforms 
• Underwater mathematical research in dynamic networks
• Digital creativity, virtual and augmented reality 
• Intelligent games and engineering the metaverse
• Novel sensor and imaging development that supports early diagnosis of disease
• Environment and sustainability

Professor Matthias Ruth, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research at the University of York, sees the membership as a great opportunity to support the safe development of AI systems.

He said: “To ensure these technologies do change our world for the better, we need to involve a wide range of disciplines in their development. At York, the number of experts exploring the possibilities of data science and AI is constantly expanding, as are the areas of research in which data science and AI are deployed, ranging from monitoring microbial cells in anaerobic digesters to AI-assisted language learning, and beyond.”

Professor Ibrahim Habli, Director of Research for the Assuring Autonomy International Programme and deputy head of the Department of Computer Science, added: “We’re delighted to be new members of The Turing University Network.

“It will enable us to further extend our collaborations and share our expertise with a wider network. We’ll learn from others and understand best practice, allowing us to accelerate breakthroughs and contribute positively to society.”

Dr Jean Innes, Chief Executive Officer of The Alan Turing Institute, said: “We’re really  pleased to welcome our new members to the network. We hope that they will benefit from being part of our data science and AI group and find opportunities for new, meaningful collaborations across the data science and AI landscape.”

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