AUST’s Dr. Usman Bello Abdulmalik Joins Global AI Research Fellowship at University of Chicago

The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, has recorded another major academic milestone as Dr. Usman Bello Abdulmalik, acting Dean, School of Sciences has been selected as an Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Faculty Fellow at the University of Chicago, United States.

Dr. Abdulmalik is among four faculty members from Nigerian universities chosen for the prestigious fellowship, which aims to advance and accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in the natural sciences and engineering. The program recognizes outstanding scholars whose research bridges AI with scientific discovery and innovation.

The Schmidt AI in Science Faculty Fellow Program provides fellows with advanced training in AI methods while supporting original, high-impact research in areas such as data analysis, experimental design, hypothesis generation, and the discovery of natural laws. Through the fellowship, participants engage with the University of Chicago’s top-ranked academic programs, world-renowned faculty, and a vibrant data science ecosystem.

As part of this growing global AI and science community, fellows collaborate with leading institutions including Argonne National Laboratory, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, the NSF-Simons National Institute for Theory and Mathematics in Biology, and the NSF-Simons AI Institute for the Sky.

Dr. Abdulmalik’s selection underscores AUST’s rising profile in cutting-edge research and its commitment to positioning African scholars at the forefront of global scientific and technological advancement. His. participation in the program is expected to strengthen AI-driven research capacity at AUST and contribute to the application of artificial intelligence to solving complex scientific and engineering challenges.

The African University of Science and Technology continues to demonstrate leadership in research, innovation, and international collaboration, reinforcing its role as a hub for advanced science and technology education in Africa.