Our Purpose

To explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) across the domains of labor/economics, education, mental health and environmental health/planet change. Several AI-related think tanks today are focused on avoiding what we may call the ‘Terminator’ or ‘Matrix’ scenario, with energy devoted to how to avoid the potential of AI emerging as a superspecies and existential threat for us all. Others focus on single issues–such as AI’s effects on mental health–without recognizing how its economic ramifications are directly tied to health impacts. 

Our Focus

The here, now, and connections between the many different ways in which AI is shaping our lives and the relationships between them. We will do that by exploring the real, material impacts of AI across and between political/economic, educational, environmental and psychological domains.

Our Approach

To lead the way in understanding, deploying, and designing the AI systems of the future, our lab takes a comprehensive approach–bringing together UCLA’s top researchers across the schools of Engineering, Social Sciences, Humanities, Arts, Medicine, and Business to together identify key projects and insights for policymakers, businesses, and the wider public.

The AI Futures Lab at UCLA will serve as a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation, addressing some of the most pressing questions about the future of AI. By fostering collaboration across disciplines and engaging with diverse stakeholders, the Lab will lead the way in exploring AI’s potential to shape economies, societies, and the environment for the better.