Man in brown suit
Professor Sir Nigel Shadbolt

Jesus College Principal appointed Chair of AI@Oxford Research

Published

The University of Oxford has announced that Professor Sir Nigel Shadbolt, Principal of Jesus College and Professorial Research Fellow in Computer Science, has been appointed Chair of AI@Oxford Research, a new role to champion and coordinate Oxford’s world-class research in artificial intelligence (AI).

This appointment will highlight Oxford’s intent to cement its position as a global leader in AI research and innovation, uniting expertise from across its four academic divisions and the Gardens, Libraries and Museums (GLAM). The initiative, jointly funded by the divisions and supported by the John Fell Fund, will enhance coordination, visibility and impact of AI research across the University, while fostering new collaborations and investment opportunities.

The new AI@Oxford Research initiative will:

  • Map and coordinate the full spectrum of AI research across divisions;
  • Showcase and promote Oxford’s expertise to external partners, and policymakers;
  • Develop large-scale research proposals to attract transformational investment; and
  • Support a shared online presence that highlights Oxford’s AI community, people and impact.
Quote
Oxford has extraordinary depth and breadth in AI research – spanning the sciences, social sciences, humanities, medicine, our libraries and museums. AI@Oxford Research will help connect and amplify these efforts, ensuring that Oxford continues to lead in both the creation and responsible application of AI for the benefit of humanity. I’m delighted to take on this role and to work with colleagues across the University to shape and communicate our collective vision.
Professor Sir Nigel Shadbolt

Nigel, one of the UK’s foremost AI experts, co-founded the Open Data Institute with Sir Tim Berners-Lee and has long been a leading advocate for trustworthy, transparent technology. As Principal of Jesus College, it was his vision that inspired the development of the Cheng Kar Shun Digital Hub as a centre for study, learning and research in the digital age. In his new role, he will oversee the creation of a new website showcasing Oxford’s AI research, act as a focal point for major external partnerships, and help to develop transformational bids to enable future investment in people, infrastructure and innovation.

Quote
Sometimes it feels like Oxford University’s best kept secret is that we are the leading academic institution in the world, across the entire breadth of AI from its foundations, to its application, its economics, its ethics and on through safety. Nigel is a visionary leader who combines deep expertise with a clear understanding of how to connect people and ideas. He is going to ensure our profile matches our accomplishments, help us pull together across the collegiate university, and act as an ambassador for AI at Oxford.
Professor Jim Naismith, Head of the Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) Division.