Subhachandra Chandra, a Binghamton University alumnus, and his wife, Nandita, have established an endowed professorship to advance artificial intelligence research across various academic disciplines.
NEW YORK — Subhachandra Chandra, an alumnus of Binghamton University, along with his wife, Nandita Chandra, has made a significant contribution to the academic community by establishing a new endowed professorship at the Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science. This initiative aims to support research that applies artificial intelligence (AI) in innovative ways across a variety of disciplines.
The newly created Subhachandra and Nandita Chandra Endowed Professorship will provide financial backing for an associate professor or professor whose work focuses on the novel application of AI. In addition to salary support, the endowment will cover research-related expenses, which may include equipment, travel, publications, online resources, and stipends for student assistants.
“It’s not just using AI within the tech sector; it’s also about how we apply AI to everything else,” said Chandra, who earned his master’s degree in computer science from Binghamton University in 1995. “We can use the power of AI to improve things across the world in many areas, like medicine, environmental sciences, or manufacturing.”
Chandra, originally from India, is currently the co-founder and chief technology officer of Aria Networks. He credits his graduate studies at Binghamton with laying the groundwork for his successful career in the United States. Following his time at Binghamton, he earned a doctorate in computer science from the University of Michigan and subsequently worked in Silicon Valley’s technology sector.
Describing Binghamton University as a “critical stepping-stone” in his professional journey, Chandra highlighted the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in fostering innovation.
Atul Kelkar, dean of the Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science, expressed enthusiasm for the gift, stating that it would enhance the college’s research capabilities and support emerging fields of technological innovation.
The Chandras have a long history of supporting Binghamton University, having contributed to scholarships and academic initiatives for over two decades. Their philanthropic efforts include the Watson College Scholars Program, the Chandra Family Scholarship, and the Binghamton Fund for Watson College.
This endowed professorship represents a significant investment in the future of AI research and its applications, reflecting the Chandras’ commitment to advancing education and innovation.
According to India West, the establishment of this professorship underscores the vital role that alumni contributions play in enhancing academic programs and fostering research initiatives at Binghamton University.