In 2016, the Digital ICT Report prepared by MATRIX, the Northern Ireland Science Industry Panel, identified four areas – software engineering, advanced networks and sensors, data analytics and cyber security – in which Northern Ireland is already, or has the potential to be, world class.
It also noted five key industry sectors in Northern Ireland that were likely to benefit from AI developments, namely Financial Services (Fintech), Manufacturing, Public Services, Agriculture and Life and Health Sciences. The report concluded with a recommendation that Northern Ireland should establish a Research Institute in Data Analytics.
Subsequently, Matrix commissioned The Alan Turing Institute to undertake a review of Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities in the region and examine the case for the establishment of a new AI Centre of Excellence in Northern Ireland.
Did you know…?
- Academic AI capability in Northern Ireland is concentrated in its two main university institutions: Ulster University (UU), which has campuses in Belfast, Jordanstown, Derry/Londonderry and Coleraine; and Queen’s University Belfast (QUB).
- There are over 150 permanent staff involved in AI research across the two universities.
- There are around 100 companies in Northern Ireland currently working in the sector, including many spinouts from the universities.
Research publications
Below is a selection of the reports used to research this project. If you would like to see all AI related reports, please visit the library.
Scoping Exercise for a Global AI Ethics and Safety Centre in Northern Ireland
This study details how Northern Ireland’s thriving knowledge-based economy and its successful companies in the AI Sector along with expertise in both Universities can be used to build trust in the use and development of [...]
Digital technology in freight
This POSTnote reviews the digital technologies that support freight transport, considering the benefits and challenges associated with their use.
Automation in Military Operations
Automation in Military Operations Advances in robotics and digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), are enabling greater levels of automation across many sectors, including defence. The UK Government expects automation to be crucial to [...]
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