AI: Making Us better. Highlights from the Lee & Nile Albright Symposium. April 10, 2025

The Symposium held at The Museum of Science, Boston (MOS) highlighted the remarkable potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance human well-being. Dr. Insoo Hyun, Director of the Center for Life Sciences at the Museum of Science moderated a conversation with Dr. Regina Barzilay, Faculty Lead at MIT’s Jameel Clinic for Machine Learning in Health and Arianna Huffington, founder and CEO of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global. Attendees engaged in a thought-provoking discussion that provided valuable insights into how AI can strengthen human connections and improve the overall health.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Beckley © all rights reserved

Using her own mammograms in her research at MIT, Dr. Barzilay demonstrated how AI could have detected her breast cancer much earlier — and now she’s using AI to help transform diagnostics for millions of others.

AI's ability to sift through massive datasets enables healthcare professionals to make more informed decisions. This could lead to significantly reduced misdiagnosis rates, paving the way for earlier interventions and better health results. Attendees were encouraged to think about how these advancements could enhance their own research and practices.

Arianna spoke to the different ways AI can help you reconnect with yourself which, in turn, can help you with universal connections. She says "How we use our time is how we use our lives." AI collects all kinds of biometric and medical data from a universal standpoint, but when you can make personal connections with the help of AI, you will make better choices. Better choices lead to a healthier lifestyle and a better you. It's not just about physical health but mental health as well.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Beckley © all rights reserved

The Lee & Nile Albright Symposium at the MOS was more than just a gathering of brilliant minds; it showcased the incredible potential of AI in promoting human well-being. From healthcare advancements and sleep strategies to movement insights and innovative stress management techniques, AI is at the forefront of improving our quality of life.

As ideas from the symposium spread throughout the scientific community, the evidence grows: AI is a powerful ally in enhancing our experiences. Looking ahead, the integration of AI into everyday life could revolutionize how we live, engage, and care for ourselves and each other.

Researchers and practitioners face the challenge of harnessing this technology while preserving the personal connections essential for our well-being. With AI as a partner, the future holds boundless possibilities for a healthier, more connected society.