In recent years, there has been a strong push to integrate AI in global health, further accelerated by prominent developments in generative AI. Millions in philanthropic and industry investment have been poured into the sector. Though this investment has propelled the field forward as a whole, it has also resulted in the replication and fragmentation of efforts across geographies. Several academics and non-profits have found themselves working on similar efforts, but there has been limited knowledge sharing, despite common concerns and challenges. Researchers and practitioners could greatly benefit from reflecting on lessons learned for equitable and responsible AI and global health, sharing resources and infrastructure, and strengthening connections between research agendas and practical challenges.
We are launching a global Research to Impact Collaborative (RIC) aimed at bridging research and practice in AI and global health. RICs are multi-year partnerships that translate research into tangible impact and uncover new research challenges that can inform practice. The goals of launching this RIC are to 1) support knowledge-sharing across research and practice on opportunities and challenges in AI and global health, 2) support student mentorship in this space, and 3) facilitate collaborations between researchers and practitioners. Our year-long virtual seminar series will lay the foundation for the community by engaging students, researchers, and practitioners globally in dialogue around AI and global health.