Welcome to IAIER
The primary purpose of IAIER is to advance the development of responsible AI, ensuring that its benefits are accessible to a broad range of users, with a focus on expanding opportunities in emerging technologies.
Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER)
The Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER) is a cutting-edge center for artificial intelligence education, research, and innovation at North Carolina Central University (NCCU). Designed to advance interdisciplinary collaboration, IAIER leverages AI to address complex societal, economic, and technological challenges.
IAIER was formally approved by the North Carolina Central University Board of Trustees on December 17, 2025, following a comprehensive institutional review process. With this approval, IAIER stands as a pioneering AI institute at a Historically Black College and University and a leading contributor to North Carolina’s innovation and workforce ecosystem.
$1M
Funding from Google.org
200
Students to Be Impacted
1st
HBCU AI Institute in the Nation
State of the Art
Estimated to be completed in 2025, this new estimated 5,000 gross square-foot building will provide needed space for a fully functional learning and research center for the institute. The building will have an open concept and transparent design for security purposes.
IAIER Forms
Speaking Request Form
We’re excited you’re considering having Dr. Siobahn Day Grady from NCCU's Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER) be a part of your upcoming event!
Partnership Inquiry Form
If you’re interested in exploring a partnership with Dr. Grady and our team, please complete the form below.
Media Request Form
To help us coordinate your request, please fill out this form with details about your outlet, the focus of your story, and your deadlines.
Student/Faculty Engagement Form
If you’d like to meet with Dr. Grady for mentorship, research, or program involvement, please let us know more by completing this form.
The Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research
Overview
The institute aims to impact over 200 students within the first two years, offering them robust opportunities to engage with AI-related fields through interdisciplinary courses, research, and mentorship.
Research Initiatives
IAIER is dedicated to pioneering research that addresses critical societal challenges through artificial intelligence, with a strong focus on ethical AI development and expanding access to transformative technologies.
Seed Grant Program
The Seed Grant Program at IAIER is designed to support early-stage research projects, innovative ideas, and pilot initiatives that align with the institute’s mission of advancing artificial intelligence and expanding its applications in meaningful ways.
Affiliated Units
The Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER) fosters collaboration across academic disciplines, building on the university's strong tradition of community engagement and service.
AI Emerging Scholars and Leaders Programs
Ready to lead in the age of artificial intelligence? Whether you're a student eager to dive into AI or a faculty/staff member looking to integrate AI into your professional growth — IAIER’s AI Emerging Scholars and Leaders Programs are your next step.
Partnerships
Institutional Partners
Resources
NCCU AI Working Group
This interdisciplinary initiative aims to leverage the diverse expertise within our institution to advance in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence (AI).
Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research
At IAIER in our Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (LAIER), we pride ourselves on staying on the cutting edge of innovation and computing. We research artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction and STEM. Learn more about our efforts.
Give Now
Philanthropic support from our alumni, donors and stakeholders supports our work in training the next generation of technologists and AI professionals. Visit this page to learn about ways you can support IAIER.
NCCU IAIER x Google AI for Education Accelerator
North Carolina Central University’s Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER), in partnership with Google, now offers career-focused Google career certificates and AI training to help learners build in-demand skills in AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, project management, and more.
Upcoming Events
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Feb 12IAIER invites you to our Book Club conversation on "Genesis: Artificial Intelligence, Hope, and the Human Spirit."
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Feb 26IAIER is partnering with CDW to offer hands-on Copilot training sessions designed for students, faculty, and staff.
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Mar 06Join us for a hands-on Grammarly event featuring two dedicated sessions — one for faculty and one for students.
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Mar 17Join the IAIER Book Club for a Zoom discussion of "Unmasking AI" by Dr. Joy Buolamwini.
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Mar 26Join us for the NCCU x Deloitte AI Summit!
Recent News
The institute joined national university leaders in San Francisco to discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping higher education.
Through IAIER, Dr. Grady joins a multi-university effort exploring how AI is shaping the future of work.
The next chapter of IAIER’s partnership with Google brings the AI for Education Accelerator to NCCU, empowering learners across campus.