The University of York’s research facility that aims to address the safety of robotics and AI-powered systems is expected to open later this year.
The £45m centre will house specialist laboratories and testing facilities, and aims to lead activities in education and training, innovation, ethics and public engagement. The newly appointed director Professor Miles Elsden, said that the institute will provide technological solutions to help vital sectors including health and social care, agriculture, construction and transport.
Speaking to The Yorkshire Post, Elsden said: “All of these sectors have challenges that robotics can help.
“Often these technologies can be developed in a bit of a vacuum – while they are technologically really interesting – what is the application? Here we will be looking directly at how robotics can help these crucial issues affecting society.”
The York Global Initiative for Safe Autonomy, based on the University’s Heslington East campus, will house up to 100 researchers and support staff, with a rooftop lab featuring specialist robotics design and testing equipment.
It is one of 11 projects being funded through Round 6 of Research England’s flagship capital investment scheme, the UK Research Partnership Investment Fund.
Work began on the facility in November 2020, with Interserve Construction appointed by the University of York.
