New and renewed Canada Research Chairs at TMU
Professor Morteza Zihayat has been named a new CRC, whose work explores what it means for AI to be truly human-centred; and professor Miranda Kirby has had her CRC renewed for a second term. Her work centres on Quantitative Imaging.
Two researchers from Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) have been named Canada Research Chairs (CRCs) in an announcement from the Government of Canada. The CRC program recognizes world-class emerging researchers who are impacting their fields.
Professor Morteza Zihayat has been named a new CRC, and professor Miranda Kirby has had her CRC renewed for a second term.
As the Tier II CRC in Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence, professor Zihayat’s primary goal is to explore what it means for AI to be truly human-centred, especially in search, one of the most widely used AI applications. While search engines shape how we access and interact with information, they often fail to align with human values like fairness and trust. Professor Zihayat aims to make access to information and AI-driven decision-making empowering to individuals and diverse communities in an equitable way.
“Instead of optimizing search solely for efficiency or engagement, I want to develop methods that prioritize robustness and accountability, ensuring that AI-driven search technologies work for people, not just data,” said information technology management professor Zihayat.
As AI becomes increasingly dominant, ensuring its trustworthiness is a critical challenge. “There is enormous research potential in ensuring that AI is not only powerful but also responsible,” said professor Zihayat. “This CRC enables me to bridge fundamental AI research with real-world applications and contribute to developing AI technologies that are both technically advanced and ethically and socially responsible.”
Physics professor Kirby’s Tier II CRC in Quantitative Imaging has been renewed for a second five-year term. Her central research goal is to create innovative imaging solutions for earlier diagnosis, improved classification and more effective management of lung diseases for Canadians and individuals worldwide. This CRC renewal will support a new focus on developing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis techniques that don’t use radiation, making them safer for children with lung diseases like cystic fibrosis.
“Congratulations to professor Zihayat on his new Canada Research Chair and professor Kirby on her renewal,” said Steven N. Liss, TMU’s vice-president, research and innovation. “Our CRCs are leading groundbreaking research initiatives that will enhance our understanding and trust in AI and improve health outcomes for Canadians and the global community.”
Professors Zihayat and Kirby are two of the 179 new and renewed Canada Research Chairs at 38 Canadian research institutions that the Canadian government announced.
Learn more about Toronto Metropolitan University’s Canada Research Chairs.
Read the Government of Canada’s funding announcement. (external link)
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