US Department of Energy announces $37m AI boost for scientific facilities

Seven national laboratories will lead 14 new projects

Rachel England

August 19, 2020

2 Min Read

Seven national laboratories will lead 14 new projects

The US Department of Energy (DoE) has announced $37 million in funding for research and development of AI systems that will manage data at its scientific facilities.

Seven national DoE labs will work across 14 projects looking at automating operations, and managing data modeling and experimental analysis. Some of the subjects tackled by the labs include large X-ray light sources, neutron scattering sources, particle accelerators and nanoscale science research.

“Artificial Intelligence and machine learning have the potential to transform a host of scientific disciplines and to revolutionize experimentation and operations at user facilities in the coming years,”Dr Chris Fall, director of DoE’s Office of Science, said. “These awards will help ensure America remains on the cutting edge of these critical technologies for science.”

This is the latest in a string of AI-related investments by the DoE. Earlier this month, the Department announced $8.5 million in funding for a number of projects designed to make AI modeling more efficient through a focus on findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable (FAIR) data principles.

“One of the major scientific challenges of our time is being able to access and effectively analyze mounting quantities of data,” Dr Fall said at the time, noting that the funding would cover projects on a range of topics including high performance computing, materials science, high energy physics, and microbial science. “The FAIR Data Principles are an effective way of enhancing access to data. The projects announced today will apply these principles and thereby maximize their usefulness to science.”

Blazing a trail

The DoE is one of the US government’s most technology-focused departments, with its work in AI dating back to the 1970s. Today, it is engaged in more than 600 different projects designed to boost the reliability and resiliency of the US electrical grid, as well enhancing protections against cyber attacks on critical infrastructure.

Earlier this year, Cheryl Ingstad was named the first director of the DoE’s AI and Technology Office (AITO). In a recent interview with Forbes, she noted that the department’s ambition for “AI transformation” won’t be easy, but she is confident of the technology’s role in the country’s future.

“There will be setbacks, roadblocks and challenges to overcome,” she said, “But I am confident that working together, we can use AI to enhance and have an enduring positive impact on America’s energy, economic and national security.”

About the Author

Rachel England

Freelance journalist Rachel England has covered all aspects of technology for more than a decade. She have a particular interest in sustainability-focused tech innovation, and has once attended a green business expo dressed as a recycling bin.

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