Evolving artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) research at Concordia focuses on addressing society's pressing challenges while considering ethical, security and privacy concerns. Our researchers are dedicated to ensuring that AI technologies are developed responsibly and are used to benefit society.

Concordia’s Applied AI Institute funds and coordinates research across Concordia’s four faculties to investigate the practical applications of AI. They collaborate with governments, businesses, and civil society to ensure that AI's benefits are widely accessible and that the technology is developed and implemented in ways that are fair and equitable. By doing so, Concordia seeks to lead in the responsible and innovative use of AI, preparing society for the significant changes this technology is bringing.

Research themes

Here are some of the key research themes being explored around AI at the university.

Healthcare and medical imaging

Concordia researchers are focused on enhancing healthcare through advanced medical imaging and AI-driven tools. We are developing sophisticated algorithms and machine learning models to analyze medical images such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, aiming for earlier disease detection and more accurate diagnoses.

Additionally, our researchers are developing personalized treatment plans based on imaging data, predicting individual responses to treatments and improving patient outcomes by tailoring healthcare solutions to specific needs.

Machine learning and robotics

We focus on advancing machine learning and robotics AI to address real-world challenges and improve technological capabilities. Our researchers are developing algorithms that can learn from data and make accurate predictions, enhancing areas such as data analysis, automated decision-making and pattern recognition.

Additionally, we are creating intelligent robotic systems capable of performing tasks autonomously or in collaboration with humans. This work includes developing robots for industrial automation, healthcare assistance, and everyday tasks. By combining robotics with machine learning, we aim to make robots more adaptable and useful in diverse settings.

Smart cities, industry and aerospace

Our researchers are using AI systems to optimize urban infrastructure and services, including improving traffic management, enhancing public safety and increasing energy efficiency. By using AI to analyze data from various sources, such as sensors and cameras, our researchers are creating more efficient, livable and sustainable urban environments.

We are also applying AI to enhance production efficiency, monitor equipment health and to predict maintenance needs, reducing downtime and costs while helping industry meet its commitment to net-zero energy. In aerospace, AI helps optimize flight routes, improve safety systems and automate routine tasks, contributing to safer and more efficient air travel.

Fraud detection, risk management and personalized financial services

Our researchers are developing advanced algorithms to identify suspicious financial activities and transactions in real time. By analyzing patterns and anomalies in financial data, our AI systems can quickly flag potential fraud, helping to protect individuals and businesses from financial crimes.

We are using AI to assess and predict diverse types of financial risks by leveraging machine learning models that enable financial institutions to make better-informed decisions and mitigate potential losses. AI-driven tools are also being created to analyze individual financial behaviors and preferences, providing customized recommendations for saving, investing and managing finances.

Decolonization and Indigenous AI

Our researchers are focused on integrating Indigenous perspectives into AI development. We’re creating AI tools that respect Indigenous knowledge systems and support sovereignty, language revitalization and cultural preservation. This involves close collaboration with Indigenous communities to understand their unique needs and viewpoints.

Our researchers also emphasize traditional Indigenous ways of knowing, engaging scholars, artists and community members to ensure AI tools are ethically grounded. These efforts aim to address historical injustices and contribute positively to Indigenous futures through inclusive and culturally sensitive AI technologies.

Social inequality and accessibility

We are also developing AI systems that can identify and mitigate biases in various social sectors, such as education, healthcare and employment. By analyzing large datasets, we can uncover patterns of discrimination and create algorithms that promote fairer decision-making processes.

In the realm of accessibility, we are dedicated to creating tools that enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities. This includes developing speech recognition systems, assistive technologies for communication and adaptive learning platforms to remove barriers and provide greater access to information and services for people with diverse needs.