Tuskegee University’s College of Arts & Sciences has received an $872,562 grant from the U.S. Department of War to support new research and student training focused on applying artificial intelligence (AI) alongside advanced DNA sequencing to address complex scientific problems and strengthen research capacity at the university.
“We are training next generation of scientists to research and address complex scientific problems that remain a greater risk for people in rural and underserved communities, right here in Alabama and across the nation,” said Dr. Mark A. Brown, president and CEO, adding that the funding will result in hands-on training for more than 100 students each year to build AI, data science, and genomics preparing them for careers in science and technology and accelerating Tuskegee’s ongoing priority to address pressing biomedical challenges facing underrepresented communities.
“With this support, our talented students and faculty can move faster to find scientific solutions that will save lives,” said Dr. Brown.
The funding will underwrite the purchase of two major equipment systems: a high-powered computer system for AI and scientific simulations, and a DNA sequencing machine. These tools will enable researchers to collect and analyze large volumes of genetic data quickly. This work can support studies in medicine, biology, chemistry, and materials science, as well as in areas such as energy and new materials.
Together, these technologies will make research faster and more efficient. Data from DNA sequencing can be analyzed with AI to accelerate discoveries across multiple fields.
The new platform will also support interdisciplinary coursework and research across physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and public health, reinforcing Tuskegee’s role in developing a mission-ready STEM workforce and contributing to national innovation ecosystems.
This work will be led by Dr. Walter Malone, Assistant Professor, Physics, Dr. Isra Elhussin, Assistant Professor, Biology, and Dr. Mohamed Abdalla, Associate Professor, Chemistry.
“This investment from the Department of War greatly strengthens Tuskegee’s research capacity at the intersection of artificial intelligence, genomics, and computational science,” said Dr. Channa Prakash, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “It aligns closely with the vision for our new NIH-funded building, which will house the Center for Genomics and Health Disparity Research. The advanced sequencing and AI infrastructure supported by this grant will complement that facility.”
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