In a landmark move that reflects the University of Georgia’s commitment to advancing artificial intelligence (AI) research and education, Dr. Prashant Doshi has been named the inaugural executive director of UGA’s Institute for Artificial Intelligence (IAI).
A nationally respected researcher and educator, Dr. Doshi brings over 20 years of experience in AI and computing to his new leadership role.
The announcement follows a comprehensive national search and positions the Institute, one of the nation’s oldest degree-granting AI-centered institutions, for a new era of interdisciplinary innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence.
A Visionary Leader for a Growing Discipline
Dr. Doshi, who has served as interim associate director for research at IAI since August 2024, is a professor in UGA’s School of Computing.
Over his distinguished career, he has led groundbreaking research in areas such as decision-making under uncertainty, multi-agent systems, and explainable AI.
“As the science and use of AI advances rapidly around us, I am very excited at this opportunity to lead UGA’s Institute for Artificial Intelligence,” said Doshi.
“UGA is making significant investments to advance AI education and research, and the institute is well-positioned to translate these investments into meaningful gains for our students and multidisciplinary faculty.”
Elevating UGA as a National AI Hub
The Institute for Artificial Intelligence at UGA is an interdisciplinary research and instructional entity supported by the Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost and the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences.
It offers three interdisciplinary AI degree programs and participates in two combined undergraduate/graduate pathways, making it a vital pillar of the university’s academic infrastructure.
More than 80 faculty members from 12 schools and colleges are affiliated with IAI, engaging in cross-disciplinary research in computer science, cognitive science, philosophy, linguistics, ethics, law, and more.
Dr. Doshi’s appointment coincides with UGA’s broader strategic plan to expand its presence in data science and artificial intelligence.
As part of the recent Presidential Interdisciplinary Hiring Initiative, nearly 70 new faculty members have been recruited in AI-related fields across campus. IAI is positioned to serve as the central platform for harnessing this academic talent.
A Moment of Transformation
University leaders lauded the appointment of Dr. Doshi as both timely and transformative.
“New AI applications, including their ethical considerations, have the potential to transform every aspect of our society,” said Anna Stenport, Dean of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences.
“We are thrilled to have an experienced researcher, educator, and leader like Dr. Doshi to guide the institute and shape this critical conversation.”
Under Doshi’s leadership, the Institute will aim to:
- Accelerate cutting-edge AI research and innovation,
- Expand academic programming to prepare students for the AI-driven future,
Foster collaborations across disciplines and industries, - Address societal challenges through responsible and ethical AI use.
An Indian-Origin Leader With a Global Perspective
As a scholar of Indian origin, Dr. Doshi’s appointment also reflects the increasing diversity and global expertise that is shaping U.S. research institutions.
His career includes numerous publications in top-tier journals, leadership in major federally funded research projects, and mentorship of graduate students entering careers in academia and industry.
With a focus on both foundational and applied AI, Doshi is uniquely positioned to lead the institute at a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, economies, and education systems worldwide.
