EPSRC Japan-UK Joint Call for Collaborations in Advancing Human-Centred AI

Funding available for UK researchers to form world-leading partnerships with collaborators in Japan in the field of artificial intelligence and data science.

Based on the implementation principles of the ASPIRE programme in Japan, this partnership programme between the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) aims to support internationally competitive collaborative research projects between Japan and the UK focusing on the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. This programme will create leading international research networks, and nurture early career researchers to invigorate the AI sector in each country.

All proposals must include plans for promoting international talent mobility and development of the next generation of AI researchers. Proposals are also expected to contribute to and demonstrate how collaborative efforts between the researchers in Japan and the UK will advance human-centred AI.

Proposals related to one or more of the following research topics are encouraged, but submissions are not limited to these areas:

• Next-generation AI: improving machine learning (deep learning) algorithms, establishing reliable AI and responsible AI systems, and applied research in areas such as computer vision and speech recognition and natural language processing.
• Robotics: research on autonomous systems, autonomous driving, industrial robots, communication robots, companion robots, and robots capable of teaching advanced skills (for example, craftsmanship) (excluding purely control-based or mechanical engineering research).
• AI for health: future predictive research for a healthier population, covering novel AI, automation and data science techniques to creating a healthier state. This includes advanced diagnostics, visualisation of invisible disease lesions and prediction and prevention of lifestyle-related diseases, frailty and early detection of cognitive decline.
• Human-computer interface: research related to novel technologies to allow humans to interact with digital technologies, for example through virtual reality (VR) and metaverse; and to enhance human physical and cognitive capabilities using information science technologies such as VR, AI, robotics and information communication technologies (ICT).

The funding opportunity specifically aims to encourage the development of academic communities and researcher networks that will generate new collaborative research ecosystems for the benefit of the next generation of AI researchers. These connections will strengthen the existing landscapes within each country and will form the foundation for sustainable AI and data science research efforts, talent exchange and mobility.