Utah Valley University’s Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute (AI Institute) is paving the way for the integration of AI into education, workforce development, and community impact.
To lead as a living laboratory for the application of artificial intelligence in higher education.
UVU’s Kahlert Applied AI Institute supports this work by advancing institutional capacity for AI integration through targeted faculty development & coordination, student academic support, and community impact & workforce readiness. Our initiatives include: support for faculty in providing students with essential AI literacy and research opportunities, developing discipline-specific curricula aligned with workforce needs, serving as a central resource for campus AI initiatives, and sharing the knowledge we develop across Utah’s higher education system.
The Kahlert Applied AI Institute at UVU will be a national model for applied artificial intelligence in higher education - where AI empowers student success, transforms both teaching and learning, and prepares graduates to thrive in an AI-driven world.
Carter Wilkes, a Physics undergraduate at Utah Valley University, has developed DIFFRAX — a laser-and-AI diagnostic device that detects bacterial infection in knee implants without surgery. Built from repurposed 3D printer parts and off -the-shelf components for under $400, the device achieves 99.2 percent accuracy in approximately five minutes, without a single incision.
Working in UVU's CIBEAM lab under faculty advisor Dr. Vern Hart, Wilkes trained a neural network to identify bacterial biofi lm patterns invisible to the human eye. The research was presented at the 32nd Annual Utah NASA Space Grant Consortium Fellowship Symposium.
NOV 5th
2026
Meet the companies and researchers working on AI in Utah at Converge AI’s Utah Valley University forum. Company presenters will discuss what they are building, and UVU faculty will share their research. Lunch and conversation follow the presentations.
The Nucleus Institute hosts this statewide campus series in support of Governor Cox’s Pro-Human AI Initiative. Founders, engineers, faculty, students, and anyone interested in AI are welcome.
DEC 8th
2026
Utilizing AI: Well-being, Happiness, and Mental Health
APR 1-2
2027
Utah Valley University is seeking proposals for its academic conference on AI in the workforce. We're looking for papers and sessions that examine the evolving impact of AI on the workforce from scholarly, industry, and policy perspectives.
The AI Institute will accept Curriculum Integration Grants to support faculty in implementing artificial intelligence in their courses.
The Kahlert Applied AI Institute is more than a research hub; it’s a catalyst for meaningful change across UVU and beyond. Here are the core benefits:
Enhancing Teaching and Learning
Implement AI-powered solutions to improve educational outcomes.
Preparing Students for the Workforce
Equip students with the skills needed for AI driven industries.
Supporting Faculty and Staff Development
Provide resources and training to adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape.
Positioning UVU as a Leader in AI Innovation
Establish UVU as a model for integrating AI in higher education.
Fostering Collaboration
Break down silos and connect disciplines to leverage AI’s potential.
Improving Operations
Use AI to streamline processes and increase efficiency.
Driving Community and Industry Impact
Partner with local businesses and organizations to address real-world challenges.
