1^st

Center dedicated to integrating generative AI resources across Midwest universities

20⁺

Top-tier Midwest universities comprising a comprehensive and collaborative Research Coordination Network

25⁺

Northwestern academic institutes and centers supporting cutting-edge and multidisciplinary research in Generative AI

Center for

Foundation Models and Generative AI

Foundation models are a new type of large-scale AI models (e.g., ChatGPT, Stable Diffusion, Sora) trained on vast datasets and adaptable to multiple tasks. Generative AI utilizes large foundation models for generating high-quality text, images, audio, video, and scientific data. Together, they have revolutionized our society at a fundamental level.

The Center for Foundation Models and Generative AI (CFMG) aims to synergize cutting-edge AI technologies with human civilization. Led by distinguished members of the National Academy of Sciences and National Academy of Engineering, the CFMG and focuses on promoting high-impact, multidisciplinary generative AI research across the broad Midwest region of the United States.

Research Milestone

Message from the Center Director

The Center for Foundation Models and Generative AI (CFMG) was established through the convergence of perfect timing, strategic location, and exceptional talent. The advent of generative AI and large language models marks an ideal moment for this initiative. The Midwest, home to the Big Ten Academic Alliance, offers fertile ground with world-class institutions that educate more talent than any other U.S. region, fostering unique opportunities for collaboration and innovation. Located in Chicago, CFMG benefits from Northwestern University and the entire Midwest's support. We're building a network of of top research universities in the Midwest, aiming to bridge the gap between academia and industry. We believe CFMG can seamlessly integrate AI advancements with the essence of human civilization.

Han Liu Orrington Lunt Professor of Computer Science, Professor of Statistics, Northwestern University

Testimonials from University Leadership and CFMG Board Members

The CFMG at Northwestern University represents a major step forward in pioneering research and interdisciplinary collaboration. By harnessing the expertise of the Midwest's top schools, this center will revolutionize AI research and development, fostering significant advancements across various domains, including computer science, law, business, and beyond.

Eric Perreault Vice President for Research, Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University

CFMG brings together the top resources of Northwestern University, uniting experts from various fields to address diverse scientific and engineering challenges. This collaborative effort enhances our theoretical understanding and drives significant advancements in our research capabilities.

Erik Luijten Associate Dean for Research and Doctoral Education, Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University

We are establishing this center to provide a unique platform for our students, faculty, and industry partners to engage in cutting-edge research., foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and position the Midwest as a leader in AI research.

Samir Khuller Peter and Adrienne Barris Chair of Computer Science, Northwestern University

The transferable capabilities of pre-trained models hold great promise for solving a wide range of scientific and engineering problems. Establishing this center is essential to advance these technologies and enhance our theoretical understanding of their internal mechanisms and guiding model design for diverse tasks and data types.

Wei Chen Member of the National Academy of Engineering, Wilson-Cook Professor in Engineering Design, Chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern University

The CFMG center's focus on next-generation foundation models will greatly enhance our capacity to simulate and interpret complex astrophysical phenomena, driving significant advancements in our field.

Vicky Kalogera Member of The National Academy of Sciences, Daniel I. Linzer Distinguished University Professor, Director of CIERA, Northwestern University

CFMG leverages our extensive expertise in statistical machine learning and optimization to push the boundaries of AI research and application. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, we aim to develop innovative solutions that will significantly impact both academic research and industrial practices.

Jorge Nocedal Member of The National Academy of Engineering, Walter P. Murphy Professor in Department of Industrial Engineering and Management Sciences, Director of th Center for Optimization and Statistical Learning, Northwestern University

Mission

The mission of the CFMG is to position Midwestern academic research at the forefront of generative AI development and ground it to promote human civilization. To achieve this mission, we are establishing ourselves as a bridge on three different levels:

Bridging AI researchers across the Midwest to create an integrative collaboration network that accelerates innovation and fosters groundbreaking advancements in generative AI.

Bridging academia and industry to transform cutting-edge research into practical, production-level applications that drive technological progress and economic growth.

Bridging technology and society to seamlessly integrate AI advancements into everyday life, enhancing human capabilities and promoting a better civilization.

Through these efforts, we aim to drive innovation, enhance collaboration, and ensure that AI serves as a force for positive change, contributing to a better civilization.

Research Paradigm

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