UPDATE: Google has just announced a groundbreaking three-year partnership with Tel Aviv University to accelerate research in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. This ambitious initiative aims to tackle critical areas such as large language models, AI for privacy, and algorithmic efficiency.
The programme will be spearheaded by Tel Aviv University’s Centre for AI and Data Science, under the leadership of Professor Yishay Mansour, from the Blavatnik School of Computer Science and AI. Google’s philanthropic arm is contributing approximately £750,000 to support this vital research.
“Our collaboration with Google began about five years ago, focusing on interdisciplinary AI projects that unite experts in computer science, engineering, and data science with those in life sciences and humanities,” stated Professor Ariel Porat, President of Tel Aviv University. “This new programme zeroes in on essential AI topics and provides scholarships for PhD students, particularly those from Israel’s periphery, who often lack access to such opportunities.”
Professor Mansour emphasized the pressing need for advancements in AI understanding: “One of our central challenges is developing theories that explain AI’s meteoric success. A deeper grasp of the processes involved in training large language models can lead to significant improvements in algorithmic efficiency.”
Yossi Matias, Google’s Vice President of Engineering and Research, stressed the importance of this collaboration: “Research and academic excellence are more critical than ever. The synergy between exceptional academic research and technological innovation can lead to meaningful advancements.”
This collaboration also builds on Google’s prior support for Tel Aviv University’s ExactShe programme, which is dedicated to creating a supportive community for women in research.
As AI continues to shape our future, this partnership between Google and Tel Aviv University positions both organizations at the forefront of innovation, ensuring advancements that benefit not only academia but also society at large.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
