TELUS Digital opens $1M AI Research Hub at University of São Paulo for AI-fueled CX innovation
TELUS Digital has announced the launch of the TELUS Digital Research Hub at the University of São Paulo (USP), expanding its artificial intelligence research efforts.
The facility, located within USP’s Center for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (CIAAM), will open on March 18, 2025.
TELUS Digital will invest $1 million over three years to support research focused on AI-driven customer experience (CX) applications, software, and solutions. The company joins global technology firms such as Motorola, IBM, and Itaú in contributing to CIAAM’s AI research initiatives.
Research focus and governance
The research hub will focus on AI model development, security, and governance. It will operate under a Steering Committee composed of academic and industry leaders, including representatives from TELUS Digital and USP. A Scientific Committee and an International Scientific Advisory Council will be formed to guide research activities and ensure alignment with global standards.
Renato Vicente, Director of the TELUS Digital Research Hub, said:
“The launch of TELUS Digital’s partnership with USP and our new TELUS Digital Research Hub on campus marks an exciting milestone in our company’s sustained commitment to advancing AI research and development, incorporating diverse perspectives to mitigate bias and promote responsible AI, and contributing to the global dialogue on AI’s potential.”
Investment in AI talent
The TELUS Digital Research Hub will provide funding for undergraduate research grants, postdoctoral fellowships, and visiting scholar programs. Eight undergraduate students will be selected annually to participate in AI-focused research projects under faculty and industry mentorship. The hub will also support postdoctoral fellows pursuing independent research aligned with AI security and governance.
Funding will be available for international AI researchers to visit USP, mentor students, and collaborate on research in AI model development and security.
TELUS Digital’s global AI expansion
The São Paulo facility will complement TELUS Digital’s existing research and development hubs, including its digitization campuses in India and Guatemala. The investment strengthens the company’s presence in Brazil, following its acquisition of software engineering and data science firm Poatek in 2021.
Fabio Cozman, Director of the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at USP, said:
“USP is a leading force in artificial intelligence research, contributing a significant share of Brazil’s scientific advancements in the field. The presence of TELUS Digital will both enhance research initiatives and provide an atmosphere of innovation to students.”
