Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping every aspect of technology, from precision agriculture to healthcare and robotics. Oregon State University is at the forefront of this transformation — home to one of the nation’s first standalone Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence programs and a vibrant ecosystem of faculty, students, and research centers driving innovation across disciplines.
To better showcase and coordinate this broad expertise, the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) has utilized an informal AI Innovation Team approach. This is led by faculty AI Executive Committee and brings the school’s diverse AI-driven activities together. This structure creates a unified identity in support of the larger OSU’s AI strength, providing a point of contact for partners, and encouraging new collaborations and funding opportunities.
A broad approach to AI leadership
The EECS AI builds upon OSU’s long-standing excellence in computer science, data systems, and robotics, connecting programs and research that span foundational theory and real-world applications. These efforts collectively enhance visibility for external partners, foster interdisciplinary projects, and strengthen Oregon State’s leadership in applied AI research and education.
Key components of the AI innovation
AI M.S. Capstone
A cornerstone of OSU’s M.S. in Artificial Intelligence program, the AI Capstone is a nine-month, three-term experiential project where students apply their technical expertise to real-world challenges. Working with industry and research partners, teams have developed solutions ranging from machine learning tools for fire department inspections to AI-driven whale detection from drone video and adaptive educational software. The Capstone program exemplifies OSU’s focus on producing graduates who are not only technically skilled but also industry-ready problem solvers.
AI Seminars and Graduate Speaker Series
The AI Seminar Series offers a regular forum for exploring the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, featuring guest speakers, faculty, and student researchers. Sessions — available both in-person and online — provide insights into emerging topics and foster collaboration across disciplines. The new AI Fundamentals Speaker Series, led by graduate students, complements this by focusing on foundational AI concepts and strengthening peer learning and engagement within the community.
Research centers and institutes
The School’s AI group also encompasses several nationally recognized research centers advancing AI applications:
- AgAID Institute – Uses AI to address critical challenges in agriculture, improving productivity, sustainability, and resilience for farmers.
- CoRIS Institute (Collaborative Robotics and Intelligent Systems) – A leading hub for robotics research where more than 45 faculty and 180 graduate students explore intelligent systems that work safely and effectively alongside people.
- AI-CARING Institute (Collaborative Assistance and Responsive Interaction for Networked Groups) – A National Science Foundation AI Research Institute developing personalized collaborative AI systems that enhance the independence and well-being of aging adults.
Connecting innovation and impact
The EECS AI Innovation group highlights Oregon State’s commitment to advancing responsible, practical, and interdisciplinary AI research and education. It provides an accessible framework for partners — industry, government, and academia — to engage with the university’s expertise and talent. All these activities are still just a part of the larger efforts at Oregon State, which include the $200 million Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex and the 95-member Regional Innovation Initiative FAST.
You can help and benefit from these programs by engaging in many different ways. For more information or to connect with any of the programs, contact the relevant contacts directly or reach out to AI@oregonstate.edu.
