Liverpool John Moores University opens new artificial intelligence research institute as data shows AI is leading to a surge in productivity and profits among firms in the region. Tony McDonough reports
Liverpool is strengthening its claim to be a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) with the launch of a new research institute.
Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has opened the Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies Research Institute which it is claimed offers “an exceptional opportunity to boost the city’s person-centred management of AI”.
It brings together expertise in AI, digital twins, virtual reality, robotics, future internet and cyber-security with applications in engineering, health, environment, business, education and sport.
In March LBN revealed new research showing that businesses across the North West were enjoying a surge in productivity and profits due to increasing use of AI.
In its latest Business Barometer report, Lloyds Bank revealed AI is fuelling “significant financial benefits”. It showed 89% of firms are seeing increased productivity and 56% reporting higher profits over the past 12 months.
And Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has appointed what is claimed is the first UK local Government AI project manager. Kayla Vondy will focus on “AI for good” with a focus on public services, particularly health, education and transport.
On the new LJMU facility, she said: “The region will be looking to the university to figure out a lot of things around these new technologies, particularly around scope and trustworthiness.”
This institute, conceived two years ago by Professors Ivan Olier Caparroso and Sandra Martorell, welcomed collaborators from Siemens, Scan, Liverpool 5G, Clatterbridge, Liverpool Chamber, Multiverse, Mersey Maritime and more.
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Vice-Chancellor Professor Mark Power added: “The pursuit of real-world applications in AI and digital technologies not only grows our research capacity but builds our leadership in the field and heightens the impact we can have in society.
“These activities lie at the very heart of our mission as a civic university.”
Leader of Liverpool City Council, Liam Robinson, also said: “We are really looking forward to working with the AI Institute not least because AI is offering us a huge opportunity to improve public sector efficiency and service provision.”