MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) and the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT), part of Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski,” have launched a $1 million joint research program. The institutions have collaborated to accelerate progress in computer science and AI.
The newly established INSAIT and MIT CSAIL Joint Research Program is designed to promote academic development, strengthen international collaboration, and enable high-impact research across both institutions. The program will allow incoming INSAIT tenure-track faculty to spend a year at CSAIL working on research projects of common interest.
“This program reflects MIT CSAIL's commitment to fostering global scientific collaborations and advancing fundamental research in computer science and AI,” says Daniela Rus, Director of CSAIL and MIT EECS Professor. “We are excited to work with INSAIT to help support the next generation of academic leaders and innovators.”
Beyond a one-year research stay, the program also establishes the foundation for long-term collaboration between researchers at INSAIT and MIT CSAIL. Participants will be employed by INSAIT throughout their time at MIT, ensuring continuity and institutional support during their specialization period. The initiative is structured to select outstanding candidates whose research aligns with both institutions and holds potential for long-term scientific impact.
“The collaboration with MIT CSAIL represents a major step towards positioning INSAIT as a world-class research institution in computer science and AI,” said Professor Martin Vechev, Scientific Director of INSAIT. “By connecting INSAIT researchers with one of the world’s top labs, we are creating unique opportunities for scientific discovery, innovation, and faculty development.”
The INSAIT and MIT CSAIL Joint Research Program is made possible through the support of the America for Bulgaria Foundation and the Lead by Example Foundation, founded by the leadership of SiteGround. Both organizations share a commitment to promoting excellence in education, research, and innovation in Bulgaria and beyond.
This further underscores MIT’s mission to advance knowledge and educate students in areas that will best serve the world, while supporting global efforts to expand research capabilities in AI and computer science.
