Chandra Couple Funds AI Professorship at Binghamton
Subhachandra Chandra, an alumnus of Binghamton University, along with his wife Nandita Chandra, has announced the creation of a new endowed professorship at the Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science. The initiative is aimed at strengthening research that explores innovative applications of artificial intelligence across a wide range of academic disciplines.
The newly established Subhachandra and Nandita Chandra Endowed Professorship will provide financial support to a selected associate professor or full professor whose work focuses on applying AI in novel and impactful ways. In addition to covering salary support, the endowment is designed to assist with research-related needs such as laboratory equipment, academic travel, publication expenses, digital resources, and funding for student research assistants.
Chandra emphasized that the goal of the initiative goes beyond the traditional use of artificial intelligence within the technology sector. He highlighted the importance of expanding AI’s reach into other fields, including healthcare, environmental science, and industrial manufacturing. According to him, the true potential of AI lies in its ability to improve systems and processes across multiple areas of society.
Originally born in India, Subhachandra Chandra completed his master’s degree in computer science at Binghamton University in 1995. He later went on to earn a PhD in computer science from the University of Michigan before building a career in Silicon Valley. He is currently the co-founder and chief technology officer of Aria Networks. Reflecting on his journey, he described Binghamton University as a crucial stepping stone that helped shape his professional path in the United States.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and the technology industry, noting that such partnerships are essential for driving innovation and real-world impact.
University officials have welcomed the contribution, with Atul Kelkar, dean of the Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science, stating that the endowed professorship will significantly enhance research capabilities and support emerging technological fields, particularly in artificial intelligence.
The Chandra family has maintained a long-standing relationship with Binghamton University for more than twenty years. Their contributions have included support for scholarships, academic programs, and initiatives such as the Watson College Scholars Program, the Chandra Family Scholarship, and funding for the Binghamton College of Engineering and Applied Science.
