Our Purpose

Human-centered AI

Despite (or perhaps because of) the very rapid pace of technological advancement, there is significant uncertainty about what human-centered AI can or should look like, and what the research and development path is to get us there.

Use-case inspired research

We take particular inspiration from the increasingly widespread use of AI for mental and behavioral health (MBH) support, which can range from the use of specialized AI apps for specific diagnoses, to using generative AI “chatbots” for social support and companionship.

Fundamental science

Cases such as these raise important fundamental research questions about the nature of human mind and experience, the core capabilities of artificial intelligence, and the interaction between the two. ARIA adopts both quantitative and qualitative research methods to transform AI and the process by which it is developed in a way that puts human wellbeing at the center.

Our vision

ARIA is committed to building a world in which:

  • AI improves human wellbeing, for individuals and for society
  • The way in which AI is discussed, designed, and evaluated is informed by a deep understanding of humans, AI, and their interaction
  • Everyone is empowered to use and shape AI in a way that makes us a healthier and happier societ

Our mission

To realize this vision, ARIA’s seeks to make significant and lasting impact in three areas:

  1. Establish a new scientific discipline which treats human cognition, machine cognition, and their interaction as an integrated object of study
  2. Advance technology for mental and behavioral health support by moving beyond “chatbots” and towards cognitively and contextually-aware multimodal assistants co-designed with mental health professionals and stakeholders
  3. Influence public discourse and policy by advancing our scientific understanding of how AI assistants impact individuals and societies, communicating our findings in readily accessible and understandable forms, and advocating for policies and practices that support the safe and beneficial use of AI technologies (when appropriate) in the different contexts of use in mental and behavioral health

Meet our team

Areas of Study