Ulster University engaged with Dell Technologies and global partner NVIDIA to implement a high-speed computing power platform required to train AI models on ever-larger datasets. This is the first Dell Tech AI Ready Solution deployed in the EMEA region and represents a significant investment from the University.
By putting in place next generation servers, high performance computing (HPC) software and other supporting infrastructure, researchers at Ulster University will be able to apply AI to predict illnesses before they emerge and put in place preventative measures that help to treat patients from the comfort of their own homes.
The data scientist team at Ulster University’s School of Computing are planning to use the transformative power of AI in detecting early signs of diabetic foot disease, enabling suffers to effectively manage the condition without hospitalisation. There are currently over 81,000 adults and 1,000 young people with diabetes in Northern Ireland and over 400 million adults globally.
New AI algorithms will also enable researchers at the University’s School of Engineering to develop self-monitoring at home via healthcare sensor systems. This system will provide better quality of care, reduce re-admissions particularly in diseases such as Heart Failure. The total cost to the NHS is estimated to be above £600 million per annum and rising.
Professor Chris Nugent and Professor Jim McLaughlin, Ulster University’s Computing and Engineers Schools have stated: “The new AI collaboration we’ve announced today will prove to be a game-changer in transforming healthcare. From the development of assistive living solutions for the elderly to the effective management of heart disease and diabetes, our researchers will have the computing power to make our future a reality.
“The positive impact of our relationship with Dell Technologies and their global partner NVIIDA will not only be felt by patients. Our collaborative AI research projects will also create new healthcare start-ups that will create jobs and growth across Northern Ireland. Our new Eastern Corridor Medical Engineering Centre, project manged by Dr Paul Beaney is currently creating new pathways to allow local companies to use our AI platform to help bring innovative new products to market.”
Mark Hopkins, General Manager, Dell Technologies Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to be providing world leading researchers at Ulster University with the high-speed computing power they need to tackle some of the most pressing healthcare issues. Through our expertise and the AI solution provided, Dell Technologies can help position Northern Ireland as a global leader in innovative healthcare.”
Craig Rhodes, EMEA Healthcare Industry Business Developer, NVIDIA said: “NVIDIA is proud to support the roll-out of AI infrastructure at Ulster University. Through the NVIDIA Deep Learning Institute, we've also hosted hands-on training for data scientists and developers at the university to help foster the development of AI skills.”