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Overview

An innovative training program for all researchers, including Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Hearing, to become leaders and innovators in Universal Artificial Intelligence and transform the future of accessible technology.

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About the Program

The NSF Research Traineeship – Institutional Partnership Pilot (NRT-IPP): Universal AI program at Gallaudet University prepares the next generation of AI researchers and leaders. Our mission is to build an inclusive pipeline of graduate students advancing accessible and ethical artificial intelligence — with a focus on sign language technologies, accessible human-computer interaction, and human-centered design.

NSF Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into daily life with significant impacts on both individuals and society. As such, it is important that AI is accessible to all users. However, ensuring that everyone can utilize AI systems presents research challenges and requires new ways of training the next generation of AI developers and researchers. This National Science Foundation Research Traineeship Institutional Partnership Pilot (NRT-IPP) award, led by Gallaudet University and Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), will create an integrated and interdisciplinary training curriculum for a new master’s program track to develop innovative skills for creating broadly accessible AI. It will address gaps in graduate training to ensure that future AI developers consider the full range of users’ sensory abilities. The project anticipates training 100 Master of Science (MS) students, including 25 funded trainees, from Accessible Human-Centered Computing, Neuroscience, Education, Cognitive Science, and related STEM disciplines.

This project will establish a new Master of Science (MS) in Accessible AI at Gallaudet University (GU). GU will partner with RIT in human-centered AI research and knowledge transfer, in addition to expanding collaborations with industry. Graduate trainees will pursue research to solve complex problems for achieving accessible AI across societal domains and realizing technology transfer. The GU-RIT partnership will launch an impactful and resilient graduate research training framework that prepares future AI developers with competencies to create the next generation of responsible AI systems, while promoting a progressively expanding AI workforce pipeline. Overall, the project aims to generate and disseminate new knowledge, produce open-access research mentoring and graduate training resources, and prepare versatile professionals and scientists capable of advancing AI, enhancing U.S. industrial competitiveness, and promoting participation for people across a wide range of sensory abilities.

Interdisciplinary Curriculum

12-element graduate training model covering AI, accessibility, policy, ethics, and user-centered design.

Industry and Research Partnerships

Hands-on collaboration with partners including Microsoft, Apple, IBM, AppTek, and RIT.

Mentorship and Career Development

Personalized mentorship, internships, and a professional network to support leadership in inclusive AI.

Applications for the Fall 2026 cohort are now open

  • Priority deadline: March 1, 2026
  • Final deadline: April 15, 2026

Both NRT-funded and self-funded graduate students may participate in the program’s training elements. Click below to learn more about eligibility, application requirements, and deadlines.

Meet the Team

Raja Kushalnagar

PI, Universal AI NRT-IPP

Christian Vogler

Co-PI, Universal AI NRT-IPP

Charmaine Mendonsa

Project Coordinator, Universal AI NRT-IPP

Abraham Glasser

Senior Personnel, Universal AI NRT-IPP

Matthew Seita

Senior Personnel, Universal AI NRT-IPP

Jonah Winninghoff

Senior Personnel, Universal AI NRT-IPP

Joe Merino

NRT Trainee

NSF Research Traineeship – Institutional Partnership Pilot (NRT-IPP): Universal AI program. The IAB has two principal purposes:

    • Provide strategic expertise and guidance to ensure that this transformative graduate training program aligns with Gallaudet University’s mission and institutional priorities.
    • Contribute to a long-term strategic plan aimed at accelerating the growth of AI-adjacent degree programs and strengthening Gallaudet’s leadership and research excellence in the field of Universal AI.
  • Khadijat Rashid, Provost 
  • Maribel Garate, Interim Dean of Faculty
  • Beth Gibbons, Associate Dean of the Graduate School 
  • Poorna Kushalnagar, Strategic Research Officer 
  • Daniel Lundberg, STAMP School Director 

As an Independent Advisory Board member will play a crucial role in ensuring the program’s excellence, sustainability, and national impact. The board’s expertise will guide our efforts to:

    • Strengthen the academic, research, and professional development components of the Universal-AI traineeship.
    • Foster cross-institutional and industry partnerships.
    • Ensure alignment with national priorities in inclusive and responsible AI.
    • Advise on workforce pathways and trainee outcomes.
  • Samantha Cook, Deloitte Consulting LLP
  • Nikolas Kelly, Sign Speak
  • Apptek: Mike Veronis, Apptek,
  • Scott Van Nice, Procter and Gamble
  • Joe Merino, MS, Accessible Human-Centered Computing Policy

Contact

  • Universal AI NRT at Gallaudet University
  • HMB | N318
  • click to show email
  • (202) 651-5000
  • (202) 559-5622
  • Monday
    9:00 am-5:00 pm
    Tuesday
    9:00 am-5:00 pm
    Wednesday
    9:00 am-5:00 pm
    Thursday
    9:00 am-5:00 pm
    Friday
    9:00 am-5:00 pm