About CU-CHAI
Founded in 2024, Clemson University's Center for Human-AI Interaction, Collaboration, and Teaming (CU-CHAI) is a dynamic hub for pioneering research and innovation, hosted within the College of Engineering, Computing, and Applied Science. Building upon a decade of advancements in the AI space, CU-CHAI has quickly become recognized as the number one team in the world for research on human-AI teamwork.
EXPERTISE: At CU-CHAI, we are home to a diverse group of faculty members who are leading innovators in the AI field. Our experts bring a wealth of knowledge from a variety of domains, leveraging AI technology to solve complex problems and advance research in areas ranging from healthcare and robotics to environmental science and ethics. Our collaborative approach fosters an environment where interdisciplinary teams work together to push the boundaries of what is possible in human-AI partnerships.
TECHNOLOGY : Our state-of-the-art research facility is equipped with cutting-edge technologies from industry leaders such as Boston Dynamics, Ghost Robotics, Engineered Arts, FLIR, and Tesla. These tools enable our researchers to experiment, prototype, and deploy AI solutions that enhance human capabilities and drive forward the frontiers of AI research.
IMPACT : At CU-CHAI, we are committed to creating a future where humans and AI work together harmoniously, ethically, and effectively. As we continue to expand our impact and explore new frontiers in AI technology, we invite you to join us in our mission to shape a future where human potential is amplified by intelligent systems.
What We Do
At CU-CHAI, we are dedicated to shaping the future of human-AI interaction. As a national leader in research and development, we explore groundbreaking ways to seamlessly integrate AI technologies alongside humans. Our mission is to enhance human capabilities, improve AI performance, and provide a clear path of application into society.
Jointly Optimizing Human and AI Performance
Humans and AI can collaborate effectively to enhance decision-making, problem-solving, and adaptability across various domains. By integrating insights from computer science, human factors, and human-computer interaction, we aim to develop frameworks that balance automation with human expertise. Our goal is to ensure that humans and AI are both able to benefit from one another achieve greater levels of performance than available in the modern era.
Innovative Research for a Connected Future
Our center is at the forefront of innovation, where we push the boundaries of what is possible when humans and AI technology work together. Our interdisciplinary research spans a wide range of topics, from developing applied AI systems that optimize teamwork in specific contexts to exploring the design challenges AI faces when working with one, two, or any number of humans. We strive to create AI solutions that not only advance technology but also uplift the performance and connectivity of individuals, organizations, and society as a whole.
Leading with Responsibility, Safety, and Control
Our work ensures that AI systems are developed and deployed in ways that prioritize safety, enable human oversight, and minimize risk without substantial impacts to performance. We explore strategies for designing AI systems that are transparent, trustworthy, and aligned with human needs. By integrating safety protocols, control frameworks, and user-centered design, we aim to create AI systems that empower users while maintaining control, fostering a future where AI serves as a responsible and reliable partner in future applications.
Development and Design of AI Integrations
Our center advances methods for seamlessly incorporating AI into human workflows, organizations, and decision-making processes. We explore innovative approaches to AI-human collaboration, ensuring that AI systems are intuitive, adaptable, and enhance human capabilities rather than replace them. By combining principles from engineering, cognitive science, and human-computer interaction, we aim to create AI solutions that are efficient, user-friendly, and ethically aligned, driving meaningful progress across diverse applications.
Preparing Tomorrow's Workforce for AI
CU-CHAI is deeply committed to preparing the next generation of professionals for a future where AI plays a critical role. Through our educational programs and collaborative research opportunities, we equip students, researchers, and industry professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in an AI-driven world.
In The News

McNeese steps into two new roles with significant AI-human interaction focus
Nathan McNeese began a three-year term as a member of the Board on Human-Systems Integration. As a member, he will work with board members to identify critical questions in human-system integration. McNeese’s role will be specific to advising on artificial intelligence.
In addition, McNeese is the founding director of the Clemson University Center for Human-AI Interaction, Collaboration, and Teaming (CU-CHAI). What makes the center unique is its broad scope, with very specific focuses. The center will start by conducting research and will later branch out into community outreach to educate the community on human-AI interaction, collaboration and teaming.
Trustees approve new Clemson University Center for Human-AI Interaction
The University’s Board of Trustees approved a new Clemson University Center for Human-AI Interaction, Collaboration, and Teaming (CU-CHAI), which is projected to be self-supporting by its second year as part of the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences.
The Center’s focus will be the exploration of how humans and AI can coexist and collaborate, provide interdisciplinary research in real-world settings and address growing concerns over workforce replacement and negative societal impacts.
