Cornell University

Cornell AI Initiative

Latest stories, updates, and announcements that highlight the people, research, and progress of AI throughout Cornell.

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AI Headlines from Around the University

Project to rebuild trust in AI era lands Laude’s $10M ‘moonshot’ award

A $10 million “moonshot” grant from Laude Institute will help Cornell researchers realize the potential of artificial intelligence, while giving online communities control over AI’s role.

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New initiative will explore AI’s role in society, humanities

With AI transforming how societies function, a new program in the College of Arts and Sciences aims to meet the urgent need to understand AI’s implications for culture, governance, ethics, communication, creativity, labor and social organization.

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New CoPAIR program connects Cornell researchers with AI tools, training and community

The new Communities of Practice for AI-enabled Research (CoPAIR) program gives researchers access to emerging AI tools, hands-on training and collaborative communities where they can share best practices, develop disciplinary norms for appropriate AI use and non-use, and evaluate new tools for research. 

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‘A seat at the table’: Cornell expands access to multiple AI tools for faculty, staff, students

Most faculty, staff and students will have free access to a range of AI platforms – an effort to level the playing field, spur exploration and reduce the costs and vulnerabilities of individual consumer licenses.

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Cute robots, historical chatbots: AI in the classroom grows more sophisticated

Instructors across Cornell are working to strike a balance in the classroom – using AI as a teaching tool but also making choices to prevent its use and preserve the learning experience.

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Future of the American University report charts a ‘bold path forward’

September 22, 2026

After a year of engaging with university stakeholders and at a critical moment for higher education in the United States, a faculty-led committee has offered its vision for fortifying Cornell’s long-term future in the face of unprecedented challenges. 

Via: Associated Press

Will AI models achieve the ability to improve autonomously? Leading labs say the scenario is near

September 19, 2026

John Thickstun, an assistant professor of computer science, provides perspective on the ongoing practice of using previous AI generations to develop new models.

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AI in education initiatives emphasize experimentation, balanced use

September 17, 2026

Two new initiatives involving artificial intelligence in Cornell classrooms will encourage experimental and balanced use, while exploring ways to deploy AI that align with the teaching needs and strategies of individual academic fields.

word matrix

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Teaching an AI to Remember: What I Learned Building a Wiki LLM

September 16, 2026

Blog post from Ido Efrati, Programming Analyst Specialist, about building a Wiki LLM. 

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Boucher: Why are the scientists building AI also warning us about it?

September 15, 2026

Ayham Boucher, executive director of AI Strategy and Innovation, explains why the same people behind the AI boom are now calling for its potential slowdown.

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Cornell Statistical Consulting Unit to host workshop on AI in scientific research

September 15, 2026

CSCU will host “Ask the Statisticians: AI in Scientific Research,” a free virtual session to discuss how Cornell researchers are integrating AI into their statistical workflows. 

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NSF grant to explore whether AI can support students’ critical thinking

September 14, 2026

Cornell has received a $750,000 grant to study AI-powered reflection tools that build student critical thinking skills.

Students viewing the sunset on LIbe Slope

Via: Inside Higher Ed

When Are Students Better Off Offline?

September 14, 2026

Cornell University’s new initiative asks students to rethink their tech habits—and when screens may interfere with learning, attention and social connection.

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A&S offers new science, technology and society major

September 14, 2026

An innovative major in the College of Arts & Sciences is being expanded and refined to highlight its combination of science, social science and the humanities and its relevance to careers today.