The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded funding to establish the Center on Responsible AI and Governance (CRAIG), a multi-university Industry–University Cooperative Research Center led by Dennis Hirsch, Professor of Law and Faculty Fellow at Ohio State’s Translational Data Analytics Institute (TDAI).

CRAIG will bring together researchers from Ohio State, Baylor, Northeastern, and Rutgers universities alongside industry and government partners to advance artificial intelligence that is safe, transparent, fair, and accountable. By integrating expertise in computer science, law, business, and the social sciences, CRAIG will develop scalable solutions to some of AI’s most pressing challenges while preparing the next generation of responsible AI professionals.

Research efforts will focus on designing safer and more accurate AI systems, developing governance strategies that align with societal and business goals, auditing deployed AI models, ensuring privacy and transparency in sensed environments, and navigating the ethical dilemmas posed by new technologies.

In addition to its research agenda, CRAIG will prioritize workforce development, offering students research experiences, internships, and mentorship opportunities, while also providing continuing and executive education for current professionals.

With Ohio State serving as the lead site, CRAIG will leverage the university’s deep expertise in AI auditing, explainability, and governance to drive impact across sectors. By promoting trustworthy and responsible AI, the Center aims to enhance competitiveness, strengthen national security, and ensure alignment with societal values.