Global technology firm Leidos has announced a new partnership with the University of Edinburgh to drive advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. The collaboration aims to harness AI research and innovation to address complex challenges across various sectors, including environmental protection, healthcare, civil infrastructure, and national security.
The partnership will tap into the university’s Bayes Centre, a prominent innovation hub for AI and data science, and leverage its interdisciplinary research to support Leidos’ mission to develop trusted AI solutions. Known for fostering industry partnerships, the Bayes Centre brings together researchers from across disciplines, making it a fitting venue for Leidos’ latest collaboration.
Leidos UK & Europe’s Chief Technology Officer, Charles Newhouse, expressed his enthusiasm about the new partnership. “We are excited to partner with the University of Edinburgh, a leading centre for AI research in Europe,” Newhouse said. “With its research excellence, interdisciplinary approach, and innovation hubs like the Bayes Centre, the university provides an ideal environment for groundbreaking advancements in AI.”
The collaboration marks a significant step in Leidos’ commitment to what the company calls “Trusted Mission AI.” By combining the university’s cutting-edge research with Leidos’ operational expertise, the partnership seeks to deliver high-quality AI solutions that maintain stringent standards of trust, reliability, and efficiency. Leidos believes the alliance will enhance operational capabilities and advance innovation, especially in areas that address complex societal challenges.
Ron Keesing, Leidos’ Chief AI Officer, highlighted the broader scope of the company’s University Alliance Program, which links Leidos with top academic institutions to develop solutions to pressing issues. “Our University Alliance Program connects Leidos with communities of innovation at top universities, and we are excited to welcome the University of Edinburgh to our global network,” Keesing said. “Universities are key partners in researching, testing, and bringing solutions to market for the nation’s most challenging problems.”
The partnership will also allow Leidos to engage with Edinburgh’s diverse and skilled talent pool of over 45,000 students, offering opportunities for joint projects, internships, and other hands-on experiences. These initiatives aim to attract new talent and infuse fresh perspectives into Leidos’ AI projects, while also contributing to the broader scientific community. The initiative underscores a shared vision of generating positive social impact through AI, as both institutions focus on building AI tools that address real-world needs.
Professor Ruth King, Director of the Bayes Centre at the University of Edinburgh, expressed her excitement over the new alliance. “We are delighted to welcome Leidos to the Bayes Centre,” she said. “The University of Edinburgh recognises the expertise Leidos has in innovating and delivering science and technology solutions across key sectors globally. We are excited at this opportunity to build a collaborative partnership to advance technology and contribute to scientific development.”
This partnership adds to Leidos’ portfolio of global alliances and continues its strategy of engaging with academic institutions to foster technological innovation. By focusing on critical areas such as environmental sustainability, healthcare, and security, Leidos and the University of Edinburgh aim to make strides in developing AI solutions that are not only effective but also ethically responsible.
For more information on the partnership and its initiatives, visit the University of Edinburgh’s Bayes Centre website or Leidos’ official site.
