New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and Princeton University President Christopher Eisgruber have announced plans to establish an artificial intelligence (AI) research and development hub at Princeton University. The initiative, which is being undertaken in collaboration with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), is aimed at driving job growth and economic development across the region, promoting rapid and responsible development of AI technologies and advising governments and public entities on AI implementation.
- The AI hub will utilize state funding and private-sector partnerships.
- Princeton University will host an inaugural AI conference on April 11.
- The purpose of the conference is to discuss the most pressing AI issues of the time.
- It is not the first investment the state has made in AI – in October Governor Murphy established an AI Task Force.
Princeton University’s strategic framework recognizes the promise and societal implications of artificial intelligence, according to Eisgruber. AI could define the next decade or more, said Murphy, who praised the role of industry leaders in driving development of AI technologies across the state. The AI Task Force, established by Executive Order No. 346, is responsible for analyzing the potential societal impacts of AI and making recommendations to encourage the ethical use of AI technologies. It is also tasked with educating the state workforce about the development, use, and risks of AI, as well as improving government services through AI and stimulating economic growth and job creation.
Beth Noveck, New Jersey Office of Innovation Chief Innovation Officer, said that the establishment of the AI hub shows that the state is not just anticipating the future, but actively shaping it. “This partnership is a testament to our belief that when we harness Princeton’s renowned brainpower and New Jersey’s innovative spirit, there’s no problem too complex, and no challenge too great,” she added.