We are pleased to announce that Dr. Charles Grellois, Lecturer in Verification at the School of Computer Science, has secured £20,000 in funding from the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA). This grant establishes a new Innovator Circle in Sheffield dedicated to exploring the intersection of mathematics, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence.
The Circle, titled "Compositional Growth: The Algebra of Complex Neural Structures," brings together a multidisciplinary group of researchers to tackle a significant challenge in modern AI: creating neural networks that grow and adapt dynamically.
Redefining Neural Growth
The group is investigating whether formal mathematical frameworks can define neural networks that grow over time, specifically in parts where learning is struggling. By drawing inspiration from neuroscientific and medical knowledge, and using algebraic frameworks to define growth in a mathematically sound way, Dr. Grellois and his colleagues aim to move beyond static architectures toward models that mirror the biological efficiency of the human brain.
About ARIA Innovator Circles
ARIA’s Innovator Circles are designed for visionary thinkers to raise each other’s ambition and pursue world-changing breakthroughs. These self-organised peer groups provide the space for transformative, incomplete ideas to evolve into future technical milestones. By investing in these communities, ARIA aims to foster the environments where the next generation of R&D breakthroughs are born.
A Collaborative Effort
This initiative highlights the cross-disciplinary strength of the University of Sheffield and its global network. The project includes experts from Computer Science, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, and SITraN, alongside external partners from Microsoft Research, Newcastle University, the University of Bath, and CNRS.
The group includes CMI Theme Lead for Supporting Digital Education, Dr. Morgan Jones, strengthening the link between this research and the university's strategic AI priorities.
Get Involved
The Circle meets weekly and is actively welcoming new members and fresh research topics.
"While the interests of the Circle are expected to evolve over time, the discussions are focusing at the moment on a notion of growth for neural networks: using relevant mathematical notions, can we define neural networks that grow over time, in parts in which learning is struggling more? Can we find analogies or inspiration from neuroscientific or even medical knowledge?"
says Dr. Grellois
If you are interested in joining the conversation or learning more about the research, please contact Dr. Charles Grellois.