Van Andel Institute and GVSU partner to advance AI-driven biomedical research through newly launched Ph.D. in Computing

The collaboration between GVSU's College of Computing faculty and Van Andel Institute's globally recognized biomedical research team includes co- designing the AI in Life Sciences emphasis for Ph.D. students, sharing research infrastructure and jointly mentoring doctoral students. Doctoral students will work directly with College of Computing faculty and VAI scientists to design new models based on artificial intelligence, machine learning and advanced computing approaches to better understand diseases like cancer, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's and explore new approaches to prevent, diagnose and treat them.

Van Andel Institute Chairman and CEO David Van Andel said the partnership will strengthen the region's talent pipeline, create new opportunities for collaboration and help accelerate artificial intelligence in biomedical research.

It also opens new opportunities for entrepreneurship and growth born from joint research efforts. The rapidly growing AI healthcare sector is projected to exceed $500 billion globally by 2032.

"West Michigan has a long tradition of bringing people and institutions together to tackle big challenges and create new opportunities," Van Andel said. "This partnership continues that tradition, helping develop future leaders, strengthen our innovation economy and advance discoveries that can improve lives around the world."