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assessment. We look at the explainability, we look at the fairness, we look at the potential bias in those algorithms, and we work to mitigate any bias that could come up.”
Researchers at Amii have even played a role in developing techniques such as reinforcement learning with human-in-the-loop, which uses human feedback to “train” AI, to continually improve the outcomes it delivers.
“Our greatest strength on the research side is absolutely in the
area of reinforcement learning,” says Erickson. “And that’s where our work comes in, in that area of digging into the frameworks and mechanisms you can actually use to mitigate bias and to avoid that discrimination.”
In 2023, Amii announced plans to bring on 20 additional research chairs to support its work in optimizing AI for good, and for all. Many of those positions specialize in different industries: looking at how to use AI in the area of toxicology, in chemistry or material science.
“What we’re trying to do is
take experts from key domains and marry them with AI researchers with expertise in that area, to accelerate the path to both research breakthroughs and commercialization of those research breakthroughs in a variety of areas,” says Erickson.
“That’s part of what’s really unique here in Alberta. AI will bring — and has already brought — great opportunities for both startups and enterprises here.”
Another player in the technology
“OUR GREATEST STRENGTH ON THE RESEARCH SIDE
IS ABSOLUTELY
IN THE AREA OF REINFORCEMENT
LEARNING”
— RUSS ERICKSON, VICE PRESIDENT, INVESTMENT AND PARTNERSHIPS AT ALBERTA MACHINE INTELLIGENCE INSTITUTE
and artificial intelligence space is
Plug and Play Alberta, an American- based organization that is building an innovation platform to attract technology and investment to the region.
“Our global network connects individuals from various industries
to scale startups working on artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies,” says Lindsay Smylie, Alberta Director, Plug and Play. “Through our Sector Agnostic program, we’re bringing startups from all corners of the globe to Alberta, equipping them with the necessary tools and an environment that fosters their growth on a global stage. What makes this province truly unique is its entrepreneurial spirit and tight-knit community. That’s why Plug and Play recognized an amazing opportunity to become a part of the tech growth journey here in Alberta.”
EMBRACE. ELEVATE. ENVISION.
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