Columbia University will join six other research institutions as part of a plan announced today by New York Governor Kathy Hochul to make New York State a leader in artificial intelligence research and innovation. At the center of this effort, called “Empire AI,” is the building of a state-of-the art artificial intelligence computing center in upstate New York to promote responsible research and development and to create jobs and other opportunities.
“The vision for Empire AI is to provide the academic research community in New York with a state-of-the-art computational facility that supports cutting-edge research. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her bold vision to ensure that academic institutions in New York State can remain competitive and forward-looking as this fast-moving technology continues to transform our lives. Columbia is thrilled to be part of this initiative,” said Columbia President Minouche Shafik.
In addition to Columbia, Cornell, New York University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, the State University of New York (SUNY), the City University of New York (CUNY), and the Flatiron Institute will govern this consortium. This Empire AI consortium will empower and attract top notch faculty, expand educational opportunities, and give rise to a wave of responsible innovation that will strengthen New York’s economy and U.S. national security.
“Empire AI is exactly the state-of-the-art computational facility needed now for universities to perform cutting-edge research in AI. Academia can focus on advancing the science underlying AI technology and on ensuring the trustworthiness of the AI systems deployed,” said Columbia Executive Vice President for Research Jeannette Wing. “We are excited to collaborate with our partners across the state as we embark on this shared opportunity.”
