Cornell AI Initiative
Artificial intelligence at Cornell is both a field of study and a powerful tool that shapes how we conduct research, teach, and support the university.
Cornell’s approach to AI is rooted in the breadth of its scholarship and its leadership in AI research. Few institutions can match the combination of computer scientists developing foundational algorithms, social scientists examining AI’s impact on organizations and society, and domain experts — from materials scientists to veterinarians to educational researchers — advancing learning and discovery in their fields through AI. This depth and diversity enable Cornell to pursue a thoughtful approach to shape the future of responsible and impactful AI.
Why Cornell
Cornell’s AI strength comes from the breadth and excellence of its scholarship. Few institutions unite experts building core AI, researchers studying societal impact, and domain specialists ranging from materials scientists to veterinarians who are advancing discovery with and for AI. This scholarship positions the university to lead the thoughtful development and impact of AI across academic and professional life.
Careful experimentation and evidence-based practice is central to this work. Cornell empowers innovation by faculty, staff, and students, creating an environment where new ideas can emerge, be tested, and grow into transformative advances in AI research, application, and understanding.
Leadership
Thorsten Joachims
Vice Provost for AI Strategy
AI Strategy Council:
Natalie Bazarova
Professor and Associate Vice Provost for Research, Cornell University
Steve Jackson
Professor and Vice Provost for Academic Innovation, Cornell University
Ben Maddox
Chief Information Officer, Cornell University
Vinay Varughese
Chief Information Officer, Weill Cornell Medicine
Fei Wang
Professor, Associate Dean for AI and Data Science, Weill Cornell Medicine
EX OFFICIO MEMBERS
Laura Batten
Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships, Cornell AI Initiative
Ayham Boucher
Head of AI Innovations, Cornell University
Jovana Savanovic
Research Development Director, Cornell AI Initiative
History of the Cornell AI Initiative
Started in 2021 by Kavita Bala, then dean of the Cornell Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science, the Cornell AI Initiative was designed to help deepen opportunities in the development and application of AI within the field, and across AI‑related and AI‑influenced disciplines.
In 2026, the initiative expanded to support Cornell’s growing AI efforts across research, education, operations, engagement, and clinical settings. From advancing research and understanding how AI affects learning to improving university operations, the initiative brings together researchers, educators, students, and practitioners from across the university to advance responsible innovation, accelerate discovery, and ensure that AI serves the Cornell community and society in responsible, sustainable, and human‑centered ways.
Initiatives and Institutes
Cornell’s many initiatives and institutes are driving the development and ethical advancement of artificial intelligence, reflecting the university’s commitment to leading in this rapidly evolving field.