AI for Good: USC Research

USC Dornsife's AI Research

AI research at USC Dornsife is shaping the future of technology, with a strong emphasis on ethical development and scientific discovery. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integral to society, researchers are exploring its potential to revolutionize fields like drug discovery, systems optimization, and education. The university's efforts are guided by a commitment to ensuring that AI advances align with human values and contribute to the greater good.

"AI is more than just a tool; it's a reflection of our values and aspirations," said a USC Dornsife researcher. "Our goal is to develop AI systems that are not only intelligent but also ethical and beneficial to society."

Advancing Scientific Discovery with AI

USC Dornsife researchers are leveraging AI to explore complex areas such as DNA structure and chemistry. By analyzing DNA patterns, AI can provide insights into gene regulation and disease mechanisms. This work is part of a broader effort to harness AI's potential to revolutionize scientific research and medical treatments.

Programs like ChatGPT are also under scrutiny, as researchers evaluate their potential to transform industries and everyday life. The focus is on understanding how these tools can enhance human capabilities while addressing ethical and practical challenges.

Ethical AI Development

Ethical considerations are central to USC Dornsife's AI research. Since machines lack inherent moral judgment, researchers are studying how to ensure AI systems make decisions that align with human values. This involves developing technologies that prioritize human well-being from the outset, rather than addressing ethical issues as an afterthought.

AI's ability to detect patterns in thought and emotion is also being explored. By understanding the signals that influence perception, memory, and behavior, researchers aim to enhance our comprehension of the human brain and its complex functions.

AI Applications and Innovation

USC Dornsife is at the forefront of developing intelligent systems to address complex challenges. These systems are designed to improve predictions, reduce obstacles, and identify innovative solutions. Beyond immediate applications, researchers are exploring how AI can simulate future scenarios, connect disparate information, and foster serendipitous discoveries.

"AI has the power to inspire human creativity and transform the way we approach problem-solving," noted a researcher. "By enhancing both our questions and our tools, AI is opening new avenues for exploration and innovation."

Ethics and Trust in Computing

The USC Institute on Ethics & Trust in Computing (IETC) plays a pivotal role in advancing responsible AI development. The institute addresses critical issues such as justice, judgment, agency, and societal obligations in an AI-driven world. Through philosophical inquiry and practical application, IETC aims to influence public discussion, partner with industry, and educate students on the ethical implications of AI.

IETC's work is a collaboration between the USC Dornsife School of Philosophy, the USC Viterbi School of Engineering, and other interdisciplinary scholars. By bridging ethics and technology, the institute seeks to ensure that AI development is guided by clear and wise decision-making.

Revolutionizing Drug Discovery

One of the most promising applications of AI is in drug discovery. Vsevolod Katritch, a computational researcher at USC Dornsife, is leading the development of V-SYNTHES, an AI-driven technology that identifies potential treatments from vast datasets. Unlike traditional methods, V-SYNTHES virtually assembles molecules and predicts their effects, significantly accelerating the research process.

This technology has the potential to shorten research timelines, lower costs, and accelerate breakthroughs in areas like addiction therapy, cancer treatment, and Alzheimer’s disease. By revolutionizing drug discovery, AI is paving the way for more effective and accessible treatments.

The Foundation of AI: Basic Research

Basic research at universities like USC is the cornerstone of American innovation. The work of faculty members such as Helen Berman, who co-founded the Protein Data Bank (PDB) in 1971, has been instrumental in advancing AI-driven healthcare solutions. The PDB provides an open-access repository of 3D protein structures, enabling machine learning systems to identify protein folding patterns and revolutionize drug development.

AI systems like AlphaFold and DeepMind, built on the PDB, are now helping scientists find precise molecular structures and targets for treating conditions like Alzheimer’s and cancer. This foundational research is essential for the continued growth and impact of AI in healthcare.

Cell Modeling Initiative

The USC Cell Modeling Initiative (CMI) is another key project aimed at enhancing our understanding of cellular structures and functions. Using AI and virtual reality, CMI creates immersive experiences that allow scientists to explore cells in new ways. This initiative is led by experts in biochemistry, computational biology, and virtual reality, who are working together to advance our knowledge of disease mechanisms.

By mapping cellular structures and functions, CMI aims to improve our ability to treat diseases like diabetes and neurological disorders. This interdisciplinary approach highlights the potential of AI to transform medical research and patient outcomes.

AI in Education

USC Dornsife is also preparing students for a future shaped by AI. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs that emphasize AI fluency and critical thinking. Courses such as QBIO 465 (Artificial Intelligence in Biology and Medicine) and PHIL/ENGR 265g (Ethics, Technology, and Value) provide students with the skills to navigate AI's impact on society and industry.

"Education is key to ensuring that the next generation of leaders understands both the opportunities and challenges of AI," said a USC Dornsife professor. "Our programs are designed to foster critical thinking and practical application, equipping students to thrive in an AI-driven world."

In conclusion, USC Dornsife's AI research is driven by a commitment to ethical development, scientific discovery, and innovative applications. By advancing AI in areas like drug discovery, education, and cell modeling, the university is contributing to a future where technology serves the greater good.