Schmidt Sciences has selected 25 scholars, including Yuanyuan Shi from the University of California, San Diego, as part of its initiative to advance research in artificial intelligence. This program aims to harness A.I. technologies to tackle global challenges and is supported by a budget of $12 million.
Professor Shi, an expert in electrical and computer engineering, has been focused on the development of A.I. and control models to enhance sustainable energy systems. One of her prominent projects involves creating A.I.-driven building control systems that optimise indoor air quality while concurrently reducing energy consumption. Speaking to the Times of San Diego, Shi explained, “For large office buildings with hundreds of rooms, accurate simulation of the (partial differential equation) models can take days. A.I. provides the critical acceleration that enables fast indoor climate and air quality modeling and simulation.”
Shi highlighted the broader implications of her work, noting that it could be applied to expansive systems such as climate modelling and power grid management, suggesting a significant impact beyond just building efficiency.
The AI2050 program encourages researchers to envision a future where A.I. has profoundly benefited society by the year 2050, prompting innovative projects that work towards realising this ambition. This initiative includes funding for five senior researchers and 20 early career scholars over a two-year period, addressing a diverse array of challenges within A.I. Besides Shi, two other faculty members from California—Yejin Choi and Ellen Vitercik from Stanford University—have also been recognised as fellows.
The programme is co-founded by Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google, and his wife Wendy. The establishment of Schmidt Sciences is focused on accelerating scientific advancements across various areas, including astrophysics, biosciences, and climate science. Schmidt expressed his views on the importance of the initiative, stating, “While the benefits of A.I. can far outweigh the challenges, realizing this potential requires thoughtful action today. We look forward to seeing how the 2024 AI2050 fellows help shape a future where A.I. serves the greater good.”
As the potential applications of A.I. continue to expand, this initiative reflects a significant effort to integrate A.I. into practices that could lead to improved outcomes in numerous sectors, reinforcing the relevance of research in understanding and leveraging emerging technologies in practical settings.
Source: Noah Wire Services