SOCORRO, N.M. – Principal stakeholders from New Mexico Tech and Sandia National Laboratories recently gathered to connect, brainstorm, and dream about collaborative research projects that could incorporate artificial intelligence and machine learning. The meeting, held April 8 at the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources Building, kicked off the entities’ efforts to leverage each organization’s strengths and resources, connect point people, and start mapping out a joint research plan.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the ability of a digital computer or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings. Machine learning (ML) is a type of artificial intelligence that allows software applications to become more accurate at predicting outcomes without being explicitly programmed to do so.

Ron Baker, campus executive for Sandia National Labs and a New Mexico Tech alum, brought the two institutions together for the historic launch of the artificial intelligence and machine learning partnership, which builds on the already long-established program of strategic engagement between the lab, based in Albuquerque, and the university. The two entities have many common focus areas, such as cyber security and energetics, and have a joint interest in conducting collaborative research and developing new technologies. The kickoff meeting for the joint venture provided an opportunity for the two organizations to synergize on topics to focus on for the collaboration.

“We want to take this [artificial intelligence and machine learning] deeper than our other focus areas,” he said. “This is fertile ground for both organizations.”

Lorie M. Liebrock, Ph.D., director of the New Mexico Cybersecurity Center of Excellence and the New Mexico Tech Cybersecurity Education Center, said the joint research partnership will broaden and deepen the university’s research profile.

“This is an outstanding opportunity to enrich the relationship,” she said. “This is just the first step.”

New Mexico Tech faculty and staff presented Sandia representatives with a wide and innovative array of possible areas for AI/ML collaborative research. Application ideas include hydrology, which could involve - MORE - efficiently examining large water-related data sets, such as those from wells across the state or from drones; remote sensing for agricultural applications and seismic data; cyber security; infrastructure resilience; and “big data problems.”

After identifying an initial set of focus areas and corresponding point people at the university, Baker and Liebrock said the New Mexico Tech-Sandia Partnership Core Team will plan to meet again in six weeks to update a strategic planning document and develop goals and milestones to help guide their efforts. Sandia will provide a committed team to facilitate the relationship and joint collaborations.