The MIT Schwarzman College of Computing and the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) recently commemorated the initiation of the MIT–MBZUAI Collaborative Research Initiative, a novel endeavor to enhance the foundational elements of artificial intelligence and expedite its application in urgent scientific and societal issues.

In accordance with the five-year pact, faculty members, students, and research personnel from both establishments will work together on fundamental research endeavors aimed at advancing the technological underpinnings of AI and its uses in three pivotal domains: scientific exploration, human flourishing, and the well-being of the planet.

“Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing almost every facet of human activity. MIT’s preeminence in AI is significantly enriched through partnerships with prominent academic institutions in the U.S. and globally,” states Dan Huttenlocher, dean of the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing and the Henry Ellis Warren Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. “Our partnership with MBZUAI signifies a mutual dedication to propelling AI in ways that are ethical, inclusive, and impactful worldwide. Together, we can investigate new frontiers in AI and offer widespread advantages to society.”

“This accord will bring together the endeavors of researchers at two prestigious institutions to foster cutting-edge AI research across scientific exploration, human well-being, and planetary health. By merging MBZUAI’s emphasis on foundational models and real-world application with MIT’s expertise in computing and interdisciplinary creativity, we are constructing a transcontinental pathway for discovery. Collectively, we will not only broaden the horizons of AI science but also guarantee that these innovations are pursued ethically and deployed where they are most needed — enhancing human health, facilitating intelligent robotics, and promoting sustainable AI on a larger scale,” remarks Eric Xing, president and university professor at MBZUAI.

Each institution has designated an academic director to supervise the program on its respective campus. At MIT, Philip Isola, the Class of 1948 Career Development Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, will act as program leader. At MBZUAI, Le Song, a professor of machine learning, will assume the position.

Backed by MBZUAI — the inaugural university entirely dedicated to advancing science through AI, located in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. — the collaboration will support several joint research initiatives each year. The results will be openly publishable, and every project will be headed by a principal investigator from MIT and another from MBZUAI, with project selections made by a steering committee formed of representatives from both organizations.