Responsible AI UK Keystone Project

Funding for consortia-led research into responsible artificial intelligence to ensure that AI technologies are designed, deployed and used responsibly within societies. 

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is providing funding for this opportunity through the Responsible AI UK (RAI UK) programme: a £31 million strategic investment by the UK Government in responsible and trustworthy AI that supports research on the technical, social, legal and ethical challenges surrounding responsible artificial intelligence (RAI).

Through this opportunity, RAI UK is looking to support consortia-led research into RAI to ensure that AI technologies are designed, deployed and used responsibly within societies. Researchers from any discipline will be able to conduct a variety of activities focusing on at least one of the following strategic research themes that underpins RAI:

• Responsible AI-powered organisations.
• Addressing harms, maximising benefits of AI.
• AI Law, governance, and regulation in an international context.

Projects supported by this opportunity will form the pillars of RAI UK and will look to deliver flexible funding to bring together the best talent to address multi and interdisciplinary challenges posed by Responsible AI. Proposals are particularly encouraged that adhere to the RAI UK vision, namely:

• Help enable responsible AI to power benefits for everyday life.
• Work in collaboration with researchers, industry professionals, policymakers and stakeholders to drive an ecosystem that will be responsive to the needs of society.

The opportunity aims to enlarge the network of researchers engaged in these strategic RAI topics and complement other key aligned programmes funded by UKRI and AI institutes funded by third parties. The funders are particularly interested in supporting diverse, multidisciplinary teams that co-create research with industry and the public.

Successful projects must commence by 1 May 2024 and last for up to 48 months.