The Concordia Applied AI Institute (AI2) is a multidisciplinary applied research unit representing more than 120 Faculty members and their graduate students from the 4 Concordia University Faculties: Arts and Science, Fine Arts, Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science, and John Molson School of Business. Organized in 3 multidisciplinary clusters, we investigate AI applications in fields as diverse as supply chain planning (Dr. Contardo), antimicrobial peptides (Dr. Mansbach), smart buildings and cities (Dr. Eicker, Dr. Amayri, Dr. Liu), robotic surgery (Dr. Rivaz), synthetic biology (Dr. Shih), and software engineering (Dr. Chen). Building on a core team of AI experts, we support the responsible adoption of AI in industry, government, and society at large.
AI2 is a values-driven institute, committed to engaged leadership, caring for AI’s community and consequences, and responsive to public interest. We support AI that improves, rather than maintains, the status quo. Through workshops, panel discussions, publications, and other avenues, we facilitate meaningful engagement with issues related to AI governance and adoption. Additionally, we support projects that adopt a critical perspective on the technology, such as the Montreal AI Community-Based Action Research Network (CBAR), or AI audits in the real-estate, “Proptech” field (Dr. Renzi).
AI2 offers innovative training programs covering both technical and non-technical aspects of AI. In partnership with Concordia Continuing Education and Ericsson, we offer a unique, project-driven upskilling program that guides technical staff throughout the implementation of AI projects relevant to their workplace. As part of the Concordia curriculum, we offer a Summer School on the Social Life of AI, reflecting on the rapidly evolving social impacts of many new applications of artificial intelligence and introducing methodologies such as datasheets and data provenance, algorithmic impact assessments, ethnopolitical theory, and futures literacy to an
interdisciplinary group of graduate students.
seeks to find methods for making the AI decision making process more transparent and understandable
Supported by Quebec’s Commission des partenaires du marché du travail, AI2 launched an interdisciplinary working group, Affecting Machines, to advance knowledge related to the barriers women experience when pursuing fields within AI and STEM sectors. This working group, composed of researchers and community consultants, is working to create practical tools and resources to support researchers, professionals, and community members in improving gender equity within AI and STEM sectors.
To learn more about the Concordia Applied AI Institute, please visit: https://www.concordia.ca/ research/applied-ai-institute.html or get in touch at [email protected]
