CeADAR, the Irish research center for applied artificial intelligence (AI), has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) for AI in Ireland. This prestigious status brings a substantial funding boost of €14 million over seven years, including an initial injection of €6 million over three years. This funding will enable CeADAR to embark on an expansion plan, creating several job opportunities and strengthening its position as a key player in the AI ecosystem.
CeADAR: A hub for AI innovation
CeADAR, renowned for its expertise in applied AI research, will now join the ranks of 151 tech hubs across 30 countries as part of the EDIH network. The EDIH is a pan-European initiative backed by €700 million in funding from the European Commission and member state governments. This development is poised to have a transformative impact on the AI landscape in Ireland.
Boosting job creation
As a direct result of its EDIH designation, CeADAR plans to create several new job roles spanning various AI-related domains. These positions will include data scientists, data science coaches specializing in machine learning and AI, program and ecosystem managers, and professionals in marketing and communications. This employment expansion reflects CeADAR’s commitment to fostering AI talent and facilitating regional innovation.
Supporting Ireland’s AI ecosystem
CeADAR’s participation in the EDIH network will allow the research center to extend its support to companies across Ireland, particularly those in the early stages of their AI journey. The infusion of new talent and resources will enable CeADAR to enhance its services, primarily focusing on aiding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and public service organizations (PSOs).
CeADAR’s mission is to empower SMEs and PSOs to become digitally adept by providing them access to AI and data analytics expertise. The support encompasses test-before-invest solutions, training, skill development, and assistance in securing funding. This holistic approach aims to accelerate the adoption of AI and data science across various sectors in Ireland.
Dr. Edward McDonnell, CeADAR’s center director, expressed his delight at the research center’s inclusion in the select European tech centers of excellence. He highlighted the significance of the new funding, provided jointly by the European Union and the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland, in driving CeADAR’s mission to empower businesses with AI and data science capabilities.
Dr. McDonnell stated, “We plan a large hiring program to recruit additional expertise in data science, data science coaching, program management, ecosystems management, digital marketing, and communications.” This strategic expansion underscores CeADAR’s dedication to furthering AI innovation in Ireland.
CeADAR’s track record in AI research
CeADAR has earned recognition for its applied AI research and active involvement in industry projects and skill development initiatives. Dr. McDonnell’s recent appointment to the OECD Global Partnership Committee on AI underscores the center’s growing international influence.
CeADAR’s primary focus remains on applied AI research, and the center actively collaborates with organizations worldwide on projects with real-world impact. Earlier this year, CeADAR partnered with Vietnam National University on an AI project to address air pollution in Vietnam, demonstrating the center’s commitment to addressing pressing global challenges through AI.
Additionally, CeADAR is dedicated to upskilling the industry. The center collaborated with researchers across Europe to develop an AI master’s degree program with a strong emphasis on ethics, addressing the need for responsible AI development and deployment.
Job opportunities at CeADAR
For those interested in contributing to the dynamic field of AI and joining CeADAR’s efforts to shape the future of AI in Ireland, the research center regularly posts job openings on its website.
CeADAR’s designation as the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) for AI in Ireland marks a pivotal moment in the country’s AI ecosystem. With substantial funding and a commitment to job creation and innovation, CeADAR is poised to play a central role in driving AI adoption across various sectors, particularly for SMEs and PSOs. The expansion of its workforce, focus on AI research, and dedication to upskilling demonstrate CeADAR’s commitment to advancing responsible AI development and shaping a brighter future through technology.
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