Director Named for New RIT Artificial Intelligence Hub

Dr. Christopher Collison has been appointed Director of the RIT Artificial Intelligence (AI) Hub. The AI Hub is a newly formed strategic entity responsible for developing AI solutions for teaching and learning and promoting AI-enabled innovations and services on campus.

Collison is the Jane King Harris Endowed Professor in the School of Chemistry and Materials Science, College of Science at RIT. He is a passionate and experienced researcher in AI-driven materials chemistry and renewable energy. With 20 years at RIT and over $1.2 million in funding as a Principal Investigator, he has integrated computational and AI approaches into experimental work in organic photovoltaic devices, nanomorphology, and photoactive materials. His current research captures 3D molecular geometry as a numerical input, essential for AI-driven predictions of drug-protein interactions.

Collison was selected for this role because of his deep understanding of AI technologies, including machine learning and large language models. As Director, Collison will maintain relationships with AI researchers and instructional faculty across various disciplines. The role requires a balanced approach to teaching and learning, facilitating curriculum changes that embrace AI at a pace suitable for all faculty members. He will also engage with our students, ensuring their active involvement and addressing their needs as RIT transitions into more AI-integrated educational practices. As a leading technology university with world-class experts, RIT is well-positioned to play an integral role in teaching and innovation in AI.