Rep. Sykes Secures Nearly $200,000 For Artificial Intelligence Research at the University of Akron

Rep. Sykes Secures Nearly $200,000 For Artificial Intelligence Research at the University of Akron

AKRON, OH - Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced that the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded the University of Akron $199,413 for research on engineering and workforce development related to artificial intelligence (AI). The funding will be used to develop faster and more efficient computing methods for AI systems. This research will help improve the performance of advanced technologies.

"Research institutions like the University of Akron are driving innovation that strengthens our economy, advances scientific discovery, and improves lives. This federal investment will support groundbreaking artificial intelligence research that could lead to more efficient computing technologies while creating valuable opportunities for students and emerging scientists. I am proud to help secure resources that keep Akron at the forefront of innovation and prepare the next generation of researchers and problem-solvers," said Rep. Sykes.

"We are grateful to the National Science Foundation and Congresswoman Emilia Sykes for support that enables The University of Akron to advance more reliable and efficient large-scale computing systems, helping address critical challenges in artificial intelligence and cloud computing while preparing the next generation of researchers," said Suzanne B. Bausch, Vice President of Research & Business Engagement, and President of the Research Foundation at the University of Akron.

The funds awarded through this grant will be used to support new research that makes large computer systems faster and more reliable. The systems are used in AI, science, and healthcare, and they often rely on many computers running at once. When some computers slow down or fail, the entire system can be delayed. This project will develop methods that help the system finish its tasks more efficiently and will test these improvements on real cloud-based systems.

Federal investments in research help Ohio universities attract top talent, strengthen partnerships with industry leaders, and create new opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in emerging fields. Rep. Sykes has consistently advocated for federal investments that expand research capacity and workforce development opportunities across Ohio's 13th Congressional District. Support for research institutions like the University of Akron helps ensure that the region remains competitive in rapidly growing technology sectors while fostering economic growth and innovation.