The University of Michigan (U-M) and Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) recently announced plans to develop a groundbreaking research facility in Washtenaw County, Michigan. This collaboration will strengthen the region’s role in artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing, creating opportunities for innovation, education, and job growth in Southeast Michigan.
A Dual-Purpose Research Hub
The facility will feature two computing centers. One will support LANL scientists and engineers in addressing critical national security challenges using AI and high-performance computing. The other will be an academic computing center, enabling U-M faculty, students, and partners from across Michigan to collaborate with LANL researchers on multidisciplinary research projects.
This collaboration is not just about research; it also focuses on education. The facility will provide a platform for joint workforce development programs, training opportunities, and student engagement, ensuring that the next generation of technologists is prepared for careers in advanced computing fields.
According to LANL, this partnership will help address global challenges in energy, national security, and advanced computing. The initiative will also facilitate research in areas like climate change, advanced materials, and AI-driven modeling techniques.
A Catalyst for Southeast Michigan
Ann Arbor SPARK provided vital support in the site selection process for this facility, leveraging its expertise in connecting businesses with the resources and locations that best align with their goals. The facility will be located on a 20-acre property at 10221 Textile Road in Ypsilanti Township, selected for its strategic position and ability to meet the project’s requirements. Planned infrastructure improvements will not only support the facility’s operations but also provide added benefits to the surrounding community, making it an ideal location for this initiative.
“This project represents a significant investment in Ypsilanti Township, chosen for its existing infrastructure and commitment to further development in the area,” said Brenda Stumbo, Ypsilanti Township Supervisor. “The decision to locate this facility here demonstrates our community’s readiness to support cutting-edge research and innovation. This development will bring great opportunities for careers in research and development, help our local small businesses and bring future companies, and expand our tax base.”
Advancing Research and Innovation
The project builds on an already strong relationship between U-M and LANL. Earlier this year, the institutions solidified their partnership through a five-year, $15 million research contract aimed at advancing technologies like AI and sophisticated modeling techniques to tackle challenges such as clean energy innovation.
U-M President Santa J. Ono expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “Our new partnership and growing collaboration with Los Alamos National Laboratory will sustain and strengthen U-M’s impact and excellence in research, innovation and discovery. This effort will create high-quality jobs and invigorate the state of Michigan’s place in the growing AI ecosystem and flourishing information economy.”
Building a Future in AI
With plans to integrate the new research facility into the broader Innovation District on U-M’s North Campus, the project reflects the university’s commitment to expanding its research footprint. The facility will not only boost U-M’s ability to tackle complex scientific challenges but also reinforce Michigan’s role as a key player in the global AI and information economy.
The facility’s funding is expected to include a mix of federal, state, and local sources. In addition to boosting U-M’s research capabilities, the project will provide new opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in emerging technologies.
“This project builds on our region’s long history of collaboration with federal research labs, which is a vital part of our innovation heritage,” said Paul Krutko, President and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK. “By combining local talent with national expertise, it reinforces Washtenaw County’s role as a leader in advancing research and technology.”
The partnership leverages the region’s talent and resources to support collaboration and research in AI and high-performance computing, highlighting Washtenaw County’s role in driving innovation and growth. For more information about the collaboration between U-M and LANL, visit the U-M Office of Research website.
