UF Research Centers & AI

The Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Center supports research, teaching and learning about business analytics and artificial intelligence in the Warrington College of Business. It strengthens Warrington’s reputation as a leader in business analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence. The Center supports student-focused activities in business analytics and AI, strengthens activities that enhance education in business analytics and AI, and provides access to resources that enable or enhance research in business analytics and AI.

Director: Jim Hoover

The Center of Advanced Construction Information Modeling (CACIM) at the University of Florida transforms the architecture, engineering, construction, and operations (AECO) industry through education and technology adoption. By advancing tools like BIM, Digital Twins, AI, and Virtual Design and Construction, CACIM enhances collaboration, digitization, and innovation in construction project delivery.

Director: Raymond Issa

The Florida Institute for Built Environment Resilience (FIBER) advances knowledge at the intersection of research, practice, and lived experience to foster resilient built environments. Established in 2018, FIBER collaborates across disciplines to address ecological, economic, and social threats through evidence-based research and community-focused solutions, prioritizing the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide.

Director: Jeff Carney

iAdapt focuses on enhancing the resilience and sustainability of built and natural systems in response to climate change, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events. By leveraging AI for urban planning, optimizing climate adaptation policies, and fostering international knowledge exchange, iAdapt equips planners, engineers, and policymakers to address global environmental challenges effectively.

Director: Zhong-Ren Peng

The Powell Center for Construction and Environment focuses on sustainability in planning, architecture, and construction by optimizing the environmental life cycle performance of the built environment. With research spanning AI-driven modeling, net-zero buildings, and low-carbon materials, the center advances innovations in renewable energy, water resources, and health equity within sustainable construction practices.

Director: Robert Ries

The CSEveryone Center is disseminating AI professional development for teachers  and other educational professionals and are integrating AI in our teacher prep programs here at the college. 

AI is being used throughout courses and in an AI-powered education policy wiki. Additionally, the leadership faculty affiliated with the EPRC are integrating AI as a main facet of the content for new leaders. Lastly, Chris Thomas is developing chatbots that simulate interactions with school leaders and school district attorneys.

Collected AI projects across IALT and the School of Teaching and Learning 

IHE is working with big data (millions of observations) to identify optimal pathways when exploring community college students’ course-sequencing decisions and working with partner community colleges that are using chatbots and other messaging software to communicate with students as part of our re-enrollment interventions. 

The Lastinger Center is using AI across several grants and projects, including training Chatbot Tutors (with Wanli Xing of IALT) and integrated within the augmented reality project for young readers ages 8-10 (with Nigel Newbutt and ETC, our office)

HiPerGator used for the Sunshine Portal.

The Center for Applied Optimization at the University of Florida conducts cutting-edge research on optimization methods for AI, focusing on developing fundamental theories and algorithms for machine learning. The center integrates these advancements with fields like data science, energy, and transportation, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and practical applications.

Directors: Yongpei Guan & William Hager

The Center for Coastal Solutions leverages AI, supercomputing, and interdisciplinary expertise to address complex coastal challenges like sea-level rise, flooding, and red tide outbreaks. Through innovative research and strategic partnerships, the center delivers cutting-edge science and decision-making tools to build resilient coastal communities and ecosystems.

Interim Director: Andrew Altieri

Check back soon for this information.

The Center for Manufacturing Innovation at the University of Florida conducts cutting-edge research to develop advanced manufacturing and surface technologies that drive breakthroughs in areas like energy, aerospace, and healthcare. With a growing focus on micro- and nano-scale manufacturing, current research includes 3D printing for human tissue fabrication, high-performance machining, and magnetic field-assisted finishing, training students with both analytical and experimental expertise to advance global manufacturing capabilities.

Director: Yong Huang

BSI is currently in the exploration phase, where we are evaluating various areas within our program to determine how AI could add value. At this stage, we have not yet started actively integrating AI into our projects, but we are carefully assessing its potential applications.

Director: Anand Patil

The Florida Institute for Cybersecurity (FICS) leverages AI to advance security and privacy in machine learning by addressing issues like data leakage in trained models and enhancing secure learning practices. FICS also tackles challenges such as deepfake detection and uses AI to design stronger, more robust security frameworks for safeguarding critical systems and data.

Director: Kevin Butler

The Florida Institute for National Security (FINS) positions the University of Florida as a national leader in applied AI for addressing critical national security challenges. By integrating cutting-edge research, workforce development, and partnerships with defense and government agencies, FINS advances AI-driven solutions in areas like infrastructure, climate, and supply chain security while preparing the next generation of AI talent for national security roles.

Director: Damon Woodard

The Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) serves as the statewide hub for advancing semiconductor technologies through research, development, and workforce initiatives. With expertise in areas like chip design, advanced packaging, and cybersecurity, FSI drives innovation, fosters public-private partnerships, and strengthens Florida’s semiconductor ecosystem to create high-wage jobs and global leadership in specialty electronics.

Director: David Arnold

The Hinkley Center funds research projects that leverage AI and machine learning to advance solid waste management practices. Examples include using machine learning to optimize anaerobic digestion feedstocks for food waste and improving curbside recycling behaviors by reducing contamination through enhanced cart tagging programs.

Executive Director: Timothy G. Townsend

The Institute for Computational Engineering (ICE) at the University of Florida promotes world-class education and interdisciplinary research in simulation science and engineering. By leveraging high-performance computing and focusing on large-scale simulations and data-driven decision-making, ICE addresses critical challenges in fields like energy, healthcare, and national security while training the next generation of computational science leaders.

Director: Sivaramakrishnan Balachandar

The Nanoscale Research Facility (NRF) at the University of Florida advances micro/nanoscale research through state-of-the-art technologies like 3D imaging, tomography, and advanced electron microscopy. Supporting interdisciplinary innovation, the NRF empowers researchers with cutting-edge tools and expertise to drive discovery and collaboration.

The Nanoscience Institute for Medical and Engineering Technology (NIMET) supports interdisciplinary research and education in nanoscale science, engineering, and technology across diverse fields such as medicine, agriculture, and engineering. With over 280 faculty and staff involved, NIMET fosters collaboration to advance and adapt nanotechnologies for innovative applications in science and industry.

Director: Luisa Dempere

The Warren B. Nelms Institute for the Connected World advances IoT and AI research, addressing global challenges through projects like AI-guided image compression, fair AI for healthcare, and IoT security frameworks. By integrating innovative technologies with interdisciplinary collaboration, the Institute develops impactful solutions in health, energy, transportation, and more.

Director: Swarup Bhunia

The Howard T. Odum Center for Wetlands (CFW) is a Type II center that facilitates wetland programs at UF and fosters interdisciplinary research, teaching, and service with a focus on sustainable humanity-environment interactions. Directed by David Kaplan, CFW is employing advanced data-modeling and AI-driven methods in a $2.3 million project (sponsored by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, launched in October 2021) to couple lake, watershed, and estuarine models. This initiative aims to develop data-supported guidance for water and nutrient management that mitigates harmful algal blooms across Florida’s lakes, rivers, and estuaries.

Director: David Kaplan

The University of Florida Engineering Innovation Institute fosters a culture of innovation within the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, equipping students and faculty with the skills to address global challenges. Through programs in creativity and entrepreneurship, the Institute integrates innovative thinking and commercialization strategies with engineering education and research to drive impactful solutions and leadership. (No current AI projects.)

Director: Erik Sander

The Engineering Leadership Institute (ELI) at the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering prepares students to become influential leaders who tackle complex engineering challenges for societal benefit. With courses that explore topics like AI ethics, ELI equips future engineers with the skills and mindset needed to transform how we live, work, and innovate while upholding ethical standards.

Interim Director: Angela Linder

The University of Florida Transportation Institute (UFTI) advances transportation through innovative research in artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and intelligent mobility. By integrating cutting-edge technologies, UFTI develops solutions to enhance safety, optimize traffic operations, and shape the future of urban and transportation systems.

Interim Director: Kyle Riding

The Florida Water Resources Research Center (WRRC) serves as a hub of expertise in water resources, supporting conservation, development, and sustainable use. Its mission includes providing professional training, assisting agencies in planning and regulation, and disseminating research findings. Administering funding through the federal Water Resources Research Act, WRRC promotes research, technology transfer, and external support, enhancing UF’s reputation as a leader in water resources innovation.

Co-Directors: Antar Jutla and Mark Newman

The Eric Friedheim Tourism Institute fosters research, teaching, and learning about AI and data analytics in tourism, hospitality, and event management. It strengthens the University of Florida’s reputation as a leader in leveraging machine learning, data-driven decision-making, and advanced analytics for the tourism and hospitality sectors. The Institute champions student-focused initiatives in AI and data analytics, partners with public and private organizations worldwide, and provides resources that spark innovative research and transformative solutions for the industry.

Director: Rachel Fu, Ph.D., CHE

Eric Friedheim Tourism Institute

The Institute for Coaching Excellence (ICE) is committed to investing in the professional, personal, and psychosocial development of coaches and other athlete-facing professionals who are shaping the current and next generation of athletes in high-performance sport environments. The ICE engages in research, service, and education pushing the frontiers on science-informed coaching practices and the application of emerging sport technologies—including incorporation of Artificial Intelligence solutions.

Director: Christine Wegner, Ph.D.

The University of Florida Center for Exercise Science (CES) aims to enhance human health through cutting-edge research investigating the intricate relationships between physical activity, muscle, heart, brain, and age-related diseases. The CES integrates emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, to more efficiently and effectively advance humanity’s understanding of human health and performance optimization. The CES offers an exceptional laboratory environment for educating UF students and post-doctoral fellows, preparing the next generation of health-related exercise scientists and clinicians.

Director: Terence Ryan, Ph.D.

The Emerging Pathogens Institute facilitates research, education, and outreach focused on detecting, preventing, and controlling new and re-emerging infectious diseases in Florida and around the world. Established in 2006, it unites interdisciplinary teams of scientists and harnesses AI to advance pathogen-related research and training. The Institute protects human, animal, and plant health, while supporting the region’s economy and tourism through innovative forecasting and containment strategies. By combining molecular-level insights with ecosystem-wide perspectives, the Emerging Pathogens Institute leads the fight against infectious diseases on a global scale.

Director: Marco Salemi

The Emerging Pathogens Institute was created in 2006 to provide a world-class research environment to facilitate interdisciplinary studies of emergence and control of human, animal and plant pathogens of concern to Florida, to the nation and to the world.

Interim Director: Marco Salemi

The Center for Nutritional Sciences at the University of Florida advances research, education, and service in the field of nutrition. Established in 1985, it unites faculty across four colleges and 11 departments to foster a multidisciplinary approach to nutrition science. Through its campus-wide seminar series, student travel awards, and robust doctoral programs, the Center provides a dynamic environment for both graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. Leveraging UF’s globally recognized resources and faculty expertise, the Center enhances collaboration, innovation, and discovery in nutritional sciences.

Director: Robert J. Cousins

The UF/IFAS Center for Remote Sensing (CRS) advances research, education, and Extension in state-of-the-art remote sensing and geospatial AI technologies. By harnessing satellite, airborne, and ground-based data, its multidisciplinary teams develop and test machine-learning-based algorithms to address real-world challenges in agriculture and water resources management. These innovations provide actionable insights that inform decisions on crop yield prediction, water and nutrient management, and climate resilience. Through stakeholder engagement and workforce development, CRS trains the next generation of ag-tech professionals, supporting sustainable agriculture and natural resource stewardship for Florida and beyond.

Director: Jasmeet Judge

The Crop Transformation Center (CTC) at the University of Florida accelerates the development and commercialization of genetically improved specialty crops to enhance human health and protect the environment. Established in 2023, it integrates predictive breeding, precision agriculture, and plant transformation technologies—including gene editing—to increase access to phytonutrient-rich foods and mitigate challenges like citrus greening. By uniting core capabilities in plant breeding, AI, phenomics, and outreach, CTC translates research breakthroughs into tangible solutions for growers and consumers, strengthening agricultural sustainability and resilience in Florida and beyond.

Director: Charlie Messina

The Center for Land Use Efficiency (CLUE) develops and promotes science-based solutions that protect Florida’s water and natural resources through best management practices and informed policy. By uniting agricultural and urban programs—such as the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program and the IFAS Agricultural BMPs program—CLUE facilitates research, outreach, and Extension efforts that conserve resources and foster sustainable land use. Through cross-sector collaboration and targeted grants, CLUE empowers stakeholders to adopt practices and policies that have a measurable impact on Florida’s environmental vitality and quality of life.

Director: Michael Dukes

The Global Food Systems Institute (GFSI) unites faculty, students, and Extension professionals in transdisciplinary research, teaching, and outreach to strengthen food systems worldwide—especially in the Global South. GFSI fosters evidence-based solutions to improve nutrition, health, and livelihoods while protecting the environment. Through partnerships, funding opportunities, and the annual Future of Food Forum, GFSI advances transformative approaches for safer, more equitable, and resilient global food systems.

Director: Gbola Adesogan

The UF/IFAS Center for Stress Resilient Agriculture (CSRA) unites diverse faculty, institutional partners, and global affiliates to address the impacts of biotic and abiotic stress on agricultural systems. Through research, education, and Extension programs, the CSRA advances sustainable production while benefiting the environment and society. Its statewide and international research infrastructure empowers faculty teams to tackle complex challenges and offers students unique professional development, project team courses, travel opportunities, and fellowships. By bridging academia, industry, NGOs, and global partners, the CSRA drives innovative, collaborative solutions for resilient agriculture.

Director: Rosalie Koenig

The Center for Arthropod Management Technologies (CAMTech) unites industry, government, and academia to create novel pest management solutions. As an NSF Industry/University Cooperative Research Center, CAMTech conducts pre-competitive research on arthropod and nematode pests—leveraging expertise in genomics, RNAi, CRISPR, and more. Members influence research priorities, gain early access to breakthroughs, and recruit from a pipeline of trained professionals.

Director: Bryony Bonning

The Bureau of Economic and Business Research (BEBR) collects and analyzes economic and demographic data to support informed decision-making and foster Florida’s growth. Established in 1930, BEBR conducts research and publishes reports like the Florida Consumer Sentiment Index, offering insights into population trends, economic conditions, and consumer attitudes to serve governments, businesses, and the public.

Director: Christopher McCarty

The Center for Applied Mathematics (CAM) at the University of Florida advances interdisciplinary research and innovation in areas like mathematical biology and numerical analysis. CAM also provides access to advanced computational resources on the HiPerGator, including newly acquired GPUs, to support faculty and graduate research projects.

Director: Peter Bubenik

The Center for Condensed Matter Sciences (CCMS) fosters interdisciplinary research in areas like low-temperature physics, nanoscience, magnetism, and materials science. By supporting collaborative projects, sponsoring distinguished visitors, and offering fellowships, CCMS advances research and education at all levels, uniting expertise from multiple UF departments and international institutions.

Director: Xiao-Xiao Zhang

The Center for Medieval and Early Modern Studies at the University of Florida fosters interdisciplinary teaching and research in history, literature, religion, and political science. Offering diverse courses, study-abroad opportunities, and mentoring programs, the center enriches understanding of the medieval and early modern eras through rigorous scholarship and student engagement.

Director: Will Hasty

The William and Grace Dial Center for Speech and Communication Studies at the University of Florida equips students, faculty, and staff with essential communication skills to effectively share ideas and engage in social and professional settings.

Director: Emily Butler