Ahead of a new semester, MU’s top researchers converged at the College of Arts and Science AI Symposium. Faculty representing eight of the university’s schools and colleges shared how artificial intelligence and machine learning are powering their work — and what new opportunities are ahead for Mizzou. 

“Thanks to the power of AI,” said Cooper Drury, dean of the College of Arts and Science, as he welcomed speakers, attendees and guests, “we can pursue life’s most challenging questions with no boundaries.”

Among more than a dozen faculty presenters, the applications of AI and machine learning tools at Mizzou were shown across disciplines. During the first session, attendees learned how AI is applied in fashion, political science, architecture and agriculture. The subsequent sessions shared a similar range of academic diversity.

In addition to learning from the day’s speakers, attendees were introduced to the AI Research Interest Group. Hosted by the division of Research Innovation and Impact, the new resource will build a community of interest and provide support for collaborations and grant writing.

“AI is transforming many, if not most, aspects of our society,” said Provost Matt Martens, who was among the guests who took the podium, “and higher education is no exception.”

Martens was joined by Thomas Spencer, Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development, who introduced Tim Glass, associate dean of research for the College of Arts and Science, and organizer of the symposium, alongside Clint Stober, A&S faculty fellow for AI in research.