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NSERC welcomes Mark Daley, from Western University, as its new Scholar in Residence in Artificial Intelligence
General news
October 29, 2024
As AI continues to evolve, it is reshaping the research funding landscape and transforming how funding agencies assess, prioritize, and support research initiatives. With this in mind, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Daley to fulfill the advisory position of Scholar in Residence in Artificial Intelligence (AI) from 2024 to 2026.
Mark is a distinguished researcher and leader in AI and computational neuroscience. While in this advisory position, he will continue in his current role as the Chief AI Officer at Western University, where he is also a professor of Computer Science. His extensive experience in advancing AI research and policy—both nationally and globally—positions him as a key figure to help guide NSERC during this transformative period. Notably, he previously served as Vice-President of Research at CIFAR, where he played a crucial role in shaping Canada’s national AI strategy.
Recently recognized in Maclean's "Power List: AI" as one of Canada’s top 10 AI experts, Mark’s blend of academic excellence, policy acumen, and cross-sector leadership makes him uniquely qualified to support NSERC’s efforts in harnessing AI’s potential while safeguarding ethical and equitable standards. He also generously volunteered his time to chair the ad-hoc panel providing guidance on the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the development and review of research proposals.
Mark joins NSERC’s two other Scholars in Residence: Dr. Imogen Coe for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and Dr. Mark Green for Indigenous Research.
“The perspectives our Scholars in Residence bring to NSERC and the research community as a whole have been invaluable. I look forward to having Mark join this distinguished group, offering his insights on AI and helping us ensure its alignment with societal goals such as equity, diversity, and sustainability.”
Professor Alejandro Adem, President of NSERC
“AI is not just a technological revolution; it's a societal one, and its influence on research is no exception. The choices we make today related to the use and implementation of AI in this work will have long term consequences for the impact and production of research. I am grateful for this opportunity to consider AI's potential to solve our most pressing challenges while safeguarding our values.”
Mark Daley, Chief AI Officer at Western University
