Rutgers researchers have been working in the field of artificial intelligence decades before AI started to become a common part of our lives. In 1968 Saul Amarel, founder of Rutgers’ computer science department, wrote a paper about the technology that put him at the forefront of the AI movement.
Today, Rutgers is still breaking ground in the AI field. Rutgers professors are teaching courses to prepare students to be the next generation of leaders in AI. Rutgers researchers are exploring ways to use AI to fight crime, improve cybersecurity and expand job opportunities for people with disabilities. They are also tackling legal guidelines and philosophical questions surrounding the future.
Here are just some of the ways that Rutgers researchers are using AI to address critical needs in the world.
Rutgers Has Created a First-of-Its-Kind AI Software to Predict Disease
Rutgers scientists have created a first-of-its-kind AI-powered software – IntelliGenes – that can produce personalized disease predictions. The software combines artificial intelligence and machine-learning approaches to predict disease in individuals. Read more.
Rutgers Uses AI to Thwart Cyber Attacks
Rutgers computer scientist Jie Gao is working with some of the top leaders in her field to develop cybersecurity methods that use artificial intelligence to safeguard against threats. Gao is part of the AI Institute for Agent-based Cyber Threat Intelligence and Operation, a consortium of researchers from 11 schools and one of seven new national AI research institutes. Read more.
Rutgers Is Working with the Federal Government to Frame the Ethical and Legal Aspects of AI
Ellen P. Goodman, a Rutgers law professor, is leading a federal initiative to ensure that artificial intelligence used in a growing number of sectors including education, employment, finance, and health care is trustworthy and safe. The Artificial Intelligence Accountability Policy Report she authored was released March 27. Read more.
Rutgers Uses AI to Improve Bridge Safety
Led by civil and environmental engineer Nenad Gucunski, researchers at Rutgers Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation are using artificial intelligence to rapidly scan enormous amounts of data and evaluate bridge data and assist with queries. Rutgers Advanced Bridge Technology Clearinghouse is a clearinghouse of the latest innovations in bridge safety incorporating AI technology. The platform was created thanks to a $5 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant. Read more.
Rutgers Prevents Serious Community Threats Like School Shootings and Drunk Driving with AI
Rutgers computer scientist Sheikh Rabiul Islam is examining how AI could be used to address serious community threats: potential school shootings and alcohol-related road fatalities. Islam and his team are working to develop preventive measures against school shootings by using AI to evaluate online posts. This research has also focused on addressing bias in policing and using AI to track and reduce DUI-related deaths. Read more.
Rutgers Is Developing Wearable AI-Powered Robots to Expand Job Opportunities for People with Disabilities
Two teams of Rutgers researchers are working to remove barriers to the physical challenges of work. In one project, Rutgers faculty are collaborating with engineers at North Carolina State University and New York University to develop a soft wearable robot called “PECASO” that will integrate AI for most advanced control. The technology, supported by a $1.9 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, will assist workers who have restrictions in upper limb mobility, including people with multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other illnesses and injuries. It is expected to enhance employment opportunities for people with disabilities in the retail, warehouse, and manufacturing sectors.
In another project, Rutgers researchers are using a $1.1 million NSF grant to develop a soft, safety-sensing robot exoskeleton for construction workers. Powered by machine learning and mixed reality technology, the exoskeleton helps workers with strength, balance, and injury prevention when they are squatting, kneeling, or bending to perform tasks. Read more.
Rutgers Combats the Dark Side of AI
Rutgers alumnus Eric Wengrowski and School of Engineering professor Kristin Dana developed an artificial intelligence technology that makes it easier to detect deepfakes – very realistic but completely phony visual or sound content created by artificial intelligence - helping businesses and organizations protect their media assets and intellectual property. Read more.
Rutgers Studies the Risks AI Could have on Society
Rutgers philosopher Cameron Kirk-Giannini critically examines two major philosophical arguments that claim to show how AI could pose large-scale risk to society. Read more.
