Ruwen Qin

Stony Brook researchers launch AI-powered recycling project to reduce waste contamination and improve sustainability.

Stony Brook, NY, July 6, 2025 — A new research initiative funded by Stony Brook University’s AI Innovation Seed Grant is reimagining how we tackle one of the most persistent problems in recycling: contaminated waste streams. By combining video footage and cutting-edge artificial intelligence, researchers aim to automate the analysis of recycling materials, reduce contamination, and lay the groundwork for smarter, cost-effective, and sustainable waste management.

Plaque Analysis

Stony Brook Medicine is the first on Long Island — and one of a select number of healthcare systems nationwide — to implement an artificial intelligence (AI) technology, HeartFlow Plaque Analysis™, to enable its physicians to more accurately understand the blockages present in the coronary arteries of patients with suspected heart disease. This advancement, introduced at Stony Brook through a collaboration by the Division of Cardiology and the Department of Radiology, represents a significant milestone in the fight against heart disease, which remains the leading cause of death for adults in the United States.

Harrison

With support from university seed grants, 10 faculty members will make Stony Brook a destination this year for researchers from a wide range of disciplines.

“The Spring 2025 Research Conference and Workshop Seed Grant Program is a strategic investment in our faculty’s capacity to lead, convene, and educate,” said Kevin Gardner, vice president for research. “By investing in faculty-led research events, we hope to create safe spaces for vibrant intellectual dialogues on some of the most innovative ideas across campus that will serve as launchpads for high-impact research. Our goal is to bring scholars together to explore ideas, form sustainable connections, and shape the future of research.”

Despite concerns over artificial intelligence reducing entry-level tech jobs, many Long Island college students and faculty remain optimistic. Students like Stony Brook’s Hannah Lee believe human collaboration skills will remain vital. Colleges including Stony Brook, Hofstra, and NYIT are expanding AI-focused programs to prepare students for shifting job demands. While AI is automating routine roles, it’s also creating advanced positions across industries. Experts predict significant growth in AI-related careers, even as some companies reduce tech staff. Students are adapting by launching startups, upskilling, and leveraging AI as a tool, preparing for a future where technology changes, but opportunity persists.

Stony Brook Medicine is the first on Long Island — and one of a select number of healthcare systems nationwide — to implement an artificial intelligence (AI) technology, HeartFlow Plaque Analysis™, to enable its physicians to more accurately understand the blockages present in the coronary arteries of patients with suspected heart disease. This advancement, introduced at Stony Brook through a collaboration by the Division of Cardiology and the Department of Radiology, represents a significant milestone in the fight against heart disease, which remains the leading cause of death for adults in the United States.

Graduating into a tough job market, Stony Brook senior Abby-Gaëlle Sylvestre launched an event planning business with her sister amid challenges landing a full-time job. Nationwide, new grads face a hiring slowdown due to economic uncertainty, AI's impact, and increased competition. Job postings are down while applications are up. Some sectors, like consulting and accounting, are hiring more, but tech and finance have seen declines. Career experts urge adaptability, with students using AI tools to prepare for interviews and exploring jobs in alternate industries. For some, like Sylvestre, entrepreneurship offers a proactive response to limited traditional job opportunities.