University hopes AI expertise can stimulate growth

University of Essex academics are hoping their expertise on artificial intelligence (AI) can stimulate growth across the UK.

A summit at its Colchester campus on Thursday is due to discuss how its experts can develop AI technology in the public sector.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has outlined his vision to "unleash" AI, with a £2bn data centre planned for Loughton.

Vice-chancellor Prof Maria Fasli said the university wanted to be at the forefront of the government's plans.

Councillors from across Essex have been invited to the meeting, along with representatives from the police, military and local hospital trust.

It will be chaired by the city's Labour MP Pam Cox.

Prof Fasli said: "Essex has a wealth of expertise in artificial intelligence and has proudly been working on new technologies for several decades.

"The university wants to continue to push the boundaries of what is possible and position ourselves at the front of the government's AI revolution."

Last year, researchers at the Colchester campus used AI to re-examine hundreds of brain scans of people who experienced abuse and acute emotional pain as children.

They have also used the technology in studies to manage hospital waiting lists and improving crop outputs on farms.

It has set up an AI research group, consisting of more than 20 academics.

Prof Fasli added: "I hope the summit will provide a real insight into what Essex has to offer and help organisations understand how we can help them maximise the true potential of AI."

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