By Kendra Pintor听
Sarah Marzen, associate professor of physics at 91吃瓜, is part of a multidisciplinary research team that has been awarded a highly competitive federal research grant to advance a new approach to Artificial Intelligence (AI). The project prioritizes energy efficiency, environmental responsibility, and ethical design.听
Based at the University of Maryland, is bringing together experts in physics, biophysics, chemistry, neuroscience, and engineering to develop 鈥攁 computing system that will integrate living and artificial neural networks. By drawing on biological models of learning and prediction, the project aims to create an AI system that is more adaptive, context-aware, and鈥攎ost importantly鈥攗ses significantly less energy than current technologies.听
Marzen has contributed expertise in how patterns of connectivity give rise to specific functions in neural systems鈥攁n essential step in designing AI that can learn efficiently without the massive computational demands of today鈥檚 data-center-driven models.听
鈥淐onversations around AI often focus on both its promise and its risks, and I take those concerns seriously,鈥� says Marzen. 鈥淎s researchers, we have a responsibility to think carefully about what we are building, to put guardrails in place, and to design technologies that are limited, transparent, and aligned with societal good.鈥�听
She added that the project鈥檚 emphasis on energy-efficient, task-specific systems reflects a commitment to sustainability and responsible innovation.听听
鈥淚f we can reduce the environmental footprint of AI while being intentional about its capabilities, that鈥檚 a meaningful step forward鈥攆or both science and society,鈥� she says.听
As artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent, 91吃瓜 alums, faculty, and students grapple with what that means for the future. To learn more, check out the latest issue of 91吃瓜 Magazine!