In a significant move to propel scientific advancement, the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) and the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS), both esteemed institutions under the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), have formally agreed to jointly establish a new entity: the Centre for Artificial Learning and Intelligence for Biological Research and Education, aptly named CALIBRE.
This pioneering interdisciplinary center, CALIBRE, is set to become a beacon for the seamless integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across all facets of biological research, education, and groundbreaking innovation.
Unlocking Biology’s Potential with Advanced AI
CALIBRE’s ambitious goals encompass several key areas: building cutting-edge infrastructure to fully leverage AI in biological studies, crafting sophisticated AI tools for fundamental, applied, and translational biology research, pushing the boundaries of AI technology through brain-inspired computing, and empowering the next generation of Indian scientists with essential AI skills through specialized education and training. The center will also establish prestigious Chair Professorships and Research Travel Fellowships to further bolster biological research.
A recent statement from NCBS emphasized the critical need for localized solutions: “While a multitude of AI platforms thrive globally, India uniquely requires bespoke AI tools and infrastructure. These will be specifically designed to tackle the distinct challenges presented by India’s rich biodiversity, diverse climate, complex health landscape, and evolving fundamental research needs. CALIBRE is poised to become the national epicenter where profound biological understanding converges with innovative AI solutions.”
A Fusion of Scientific Frontiers
This visionary initiative, CALIBRE, is made possible by a significant ₹25 crore contribution from Vishal Gupta, founder of Reed India Consulting LLP, and Ms. Deepshikha Gupta, demonstrating a powerful commitment to advancing India’s scientific capabilities.
“Biology for AI and AI for Biology — these two dynamic frontiers are now converging, energized by India’s most brilliant minds at CALIBRE,” remarked Mr. Gupta, highlighting the symbiotic relationship the center aims to foster.
L.S. Shashidhara, Director of NCBS, pointed out that the extensive work undertaken by NCBS researchers, spanning various scales of biological complexity, will be instrumental in rigorously testing and assessing the capabilities and limitations of diverse AI tools developed at the center.
Adding to this synergy, Rajesh Gopakumar, Director of ICTS, highlighted how ICTS’ profound expertise in mathematical and theoretical sciences will be crucial. This knowledge will directly contribute to developing novel AI techniques and tools, finding applications not only in biology but also in vital fields like epidemiology and public health.
“Ultimately,” he concluded, “the most thrilling frontier lies in leveraging insights derived from the intricate functioning and architecture of the human brain to significantly enhance and refine existing AI frameworks.”