Technology, AI, and Society Initiative
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how societies function—from healthcare and law to education, science, and the economy. As AI systems become embedded in everyday technologies, understanding their societal implications and ensuring they are designed responsibly has become one of the defining challenges of our time.
The Technology, AI, and Society Initiative at Stony Brook brings together faculty and students across engineering, computer science, social sciences, and public policy to study the opportunities and challenges created by intelligent technologies. The initiative also supports the department’s transition from the Department of Technology and Society to the Department of Technology, AI, and Society (DTAS).
This initiative also marks an exciting moment for the department as it prepares to evolve from the Department of Technology and Society to the Department of Technology, AI, and Society (DTAS). This transition reflects the growing importance of artificial intelligence as a transformative technology and reinforces Stony Brook’s commitment to leadership in responsible and human-centered AI.
New York State has committed $5 million over three years to support the development of the Department of Technology, AI, and Society and expand research and education on the societal impacts of artificial intelligence.
Questions We Explore
• How can AI systems be designed to augment human capabilities rather than simply
replace human work?
• How do AI systems affect work, institutions, and public life?
• How can we ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in algorithmic decision-making?
• How can AI technologies contribute to addressing societal challenges in areas such
as health, climate, and public policy?
Areas of Focus
• Responsible and Trustworthy AI: Research on fairness, transparency, accountability,
and governance of AI systems to ensure that intelligent technologies operate reliably
and align with societal values.
• Human-Centered AI and Decision Support: Designing AI systems that augment human
capabilities, support expert decision-making, and improve outcomes in domains such
as healthcare, science, and public policy.
• AI and the Future of Work: Studying how AI technologies transform jobs, organizations,
and economic structures, and how intelligent systems can enhance productivity while
supporting meaningful work.
• AI, Policy, and Democratic Institutions: Examining how governments, institutions,
and legal frameworks can guide the development and use of AI technologies in ways
that promote social benefit and public trust.
• AI Systems, Data, and Infrastructure: Studying the technological foundations of
modern AI systems—including data infrastructure, computing platforms, and edge technologies—and
their implications for sustainability, privacy, and society.
• AI for Social Impact: Applying AI technologies to address major societal challenges,
including health disparities, climate change, education, and public safety.
Opportunities for Collaboration
The Technology, AI, and Society Initiative welcomes collaboration across Stony Brook
University and with external partners. Faculty, students, and organizations interested
in exploring the societal implications of artificial intelligence are encouraged to
connect with the initiative.
Opportunities include:
interdisciplinary research collaborations on AI and society
student research projects and mentoring
seminars and public events on emerging AI challenges
partnerships with industry, government, and non-profit organizations
Current Activities
• AI & Society Roundtable Series bringing together researchers and practitioners to
discuss emerging challenges and opportunities
• Interdisciplinary Faculty Network connecting researchers across campus working on
responsible AI and the societal implications of technology.
• Student Engagement through research projects, seminars, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Research Collaborationsupport interdisciplinary research projects that explore the
societal impacts of artificial intelligence.
Hosted by
Department of Technology and Society
Stony Brook University
(Transitioning to the Department of Technology, AI, and Society — DTAS)
Contact
For inquiries about the Technology, AI, and Society Initiative, including research
collaboration, student opportunities, or upcoming events, please contact:
Department of Technology and Society
Stony Brook University