Japan-UK AI research funded to advance Human-Centred AI and Data Science

Jointly funded by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) ASPIRE program and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) in the UK, the Centre for Human-Oriented AI and Robotics in Inclusive and Sustainable Manufacturing (CHARISM) is one of four projects funded as part of a joint call in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Information, collaborations which will advance AI and data science, build international research networks and nurture early-career researchers to invigorate the AI sector in both countries.

Led by Professor Niels Lohse of the University of Birmingham and Dr Natsuki Yamanobe of the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), CHARISM aims to transform how AI and robotics are used in manufacturing.

The five-year project will bring together leading researchers from both the UK and Japan to explore how intelligent machines can work with people to support more inclusive and sustainable practices, positioning both countries at the forefront of a global shift towards manufacturing systems that are not only smart but also ethical, regenerative, and deeply human-focused.

Professor Niels Lohse, Professor of Manufacturing Automation and Robotics at the University of Birmingham, said: "This Centre comes at a critical moment for industry, placing human-centric AI at the heart of sustainable and inclusive manufacturing. CHARISM will advance how people and intelligent systems collaborate in real industrial settings, while creating a strong platform for knowledge exchange between the UK and Japan.

It offers an exciting opportunity for early career researchers to work with internationally renowned experts, build global networks, and gain invaluable cultural and research experience across both countries."

CHARISM will coordinate joint research across three major themes:

• Hybrid Collective Intelligence: How AI and robotics can learn from and coordinate with humans to enable flexible, low-waste production processes.
• Measuring Human Wellbeing: Creating methods to track and support mental and physical wellbeing in human-AI work environments.
• Ethics and Trust: Designing AI that is explainable, fair, and responsive to public and worker concerns, ensuring safe and inclusive adoption.

The centre will also support training and exchange for early-career researchers, host joint industry-academic workshops, and publish open-access tools and results.

For more information, follow CHARISM on LinkedIn for project updates.