UMich, Los Alamos to Build $1.2B 'Fastest Computer'
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
- Los Alamos Lab partners with University of Michigan for $1.2B AI centers.
- The Michigan project aims to create 200 jobs and boost AI research.
- Facilities will be fully operational by 2030, with construction in 2026.
Ypsilanti's New High-Performance Computing Hub Unveiled
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - Los Alamos National Laboratory, renowned for its atomic bomb invention, has secured a $100-million funding to establish a high-performance computing facility in collaboration with the University of Michigan near Ypsilanti.
The $1.2-billion initiative includes two centers. One is for classified activities, and the other focuses on artificial intelligence research, as university officials announced.
The facility will house the world's most powerful computing assets, noted Steve Bakkal from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
The investment expands Michigan's "innovation infrastructure and AI ecosystem," he added.
Chris Kolb, University Vice President, emphasized the importance of having the world's fastest computer to protect U.S. citizens.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer stated the project would create “at least 200 knowledge-economy jobs,” with salaries of $200,000 plus benefits.
The project's funding includes $850 million from the university and $300 million from the national lab.
The computing centers are scheduled for 2030 operation, with construction starting in 2026.
University President Santa Ono highlighted the project's role in making Michigan a leader in AI and national security.
Two centers will be built on a 20-acre Ypsilanti Township site, focusing on science, energy, and security research.
One center will support Los Alamos' national security AI research efforts.
The other is for collaborative efforts among university affiliates and Los Alamos researchers.
Los Alamos is known for the atomic bomb project and operates under the U.S. Department of Energy.
Efforts are in place to minimize environmental impact and reduce emissions, despite high resource usage.
Innovative cooling technologies and clean energy solutions are being explored to manage water and energy use.
The university and Los Alamos share a historical bond, dating back to Robert Oppenheimer's teaching at UM.
RELATED: The Ann Arbor ties to Robert Oppenheimer
The university formalizes its long-standing partnership with Los Alamos, focusing on R&D for national security.
Los Alamos Director Thom Mason emphasized the partnership's importance in advancing national security programs using AI.
A $15-million contract was signed for research into AI and clean energy advancements earlier this year.
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