Stanford University launches AI institute

The Stanford Institute for Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence will focus on advancing AI research, education, policy and practice. It is working with companies across the tech, financial services, healthcare and manufacturing sectors and will also partner with governments and non-governmental organisations interested in ‘a better future for humanity through AI’.

Led by John Etchemendy, professor of philosophy and former Stanford University provost (pictured, left) and Fei-Fei Li, professor of computer science and former director of the Stanford AI Lab (pictured, right), the new body aims to become an interdisciplinary hub for researchers, developers, users and policymakers who want to understand AI’s impact and potential.

The institute’s advisory council, chaired by Reid Hoffman of Greylock Partners, includes Alphabet’s Eric Schmidt, Google’s Jeff Dean and former Yahoo chief executive Marissa Mayer.

Launching with 200 participating faculty from Stanford’s seven schools, the institute will appoint at least 20 new faculty staff, including 10 junior fellows. It will also house research fellows, distribute funding to new research areas, and partner with organisations including the Center for AI Safety and the Center for the Study of Language and Information.

Marc Tessier-Lavigne, president, Stanford, said: “Now is our opportunity to shape the future by putting humanists and social scientists alongside people who are developing artificial intelligence. This approach aligns with Stanford’s founding purpose to produce knowledge for the betterment of humanity. I am deeply thankful to our supporters who are providing foundational funding for the institute, which is a critical element for our vision for the future of Stanford University.”

Photograph by Drew Kelly