The Evolution of Artificial Intelligence at the University of Montpellier
As artificial intelligence profoundly transforms scientific, educational, and administrative practices, the University of Montpellier has decided to embark on a strategic shift. True to its scientific identity rooted in health and the environment, UM is establishing itself as a driving force in the deployment of ethical, responsible, and transformative AI, at the intersection of research, education, and innovation.
Cutting-edge research at the heart of AI and at its interfaces
Montpellier boasts world-class strengths in AI research: trustworthy AI, hybrid AI, federated AI, complex data… these are just some of the topics explored in its laboratories. But what truly sets the region apart is the interaction between AI and key disciplines such as health and the environment.
The University is banking on pooling resources (Inria, business clusters) and leveraging high-performance infrastructure, such as the Montpellier Institute of Data Science (ISDM). With these strengths, the ambition is clear: to make Montpellier a world-class hub for AI applied to major societal challenges.
To educate a generation that is well-versed in and skilled at AI
In response to the rise of AI, UM has made training a cornerstone of its strategy. All undergraduate students will be offered an introductory module on generative AI. Staff (faculty, researchers, and administrative personnel) will also receive basic or advanced training, integrated into the university’s training plan.
At the same time, specialized AI programs will be expanded, with the prospect of new accreditations beginning in 2027. The University thus aims to develop a community capable of combining critical thinking, theoretical and technical skills, and ethical responsibility.
A government transformed by AI
The potential of AI extends far beyond the classroom and the laboratory: it also impacts administrative services. At UM, AI is already being used to automate or streamline certain tasks (drafting emails, extracting information, and chatbots for user support). The roadmap plans to go further by establishing a rigorous framework that guarantees equal access, ethical conduct, data protection, and digital restraint.
The goal: to free up time for staff, improve service quality, and make the university more responsive and accessible.
A collective and ethical commitment
Montpellier is also focusing on cooperation. In 2025, the University of Montpellier (UM) became a founding member of the IA Montpellier Méditerranée association, which brings together universities, local authorities, and businesses to develop collaborative projects. It has also joined the Mistral AI – EdTech France – ESR alliance, which aims to design solutions tailored to higher education.
Finally, the University has defined seven guiding principles for the use of AI in education: prioritizing human relationships, caution and critical thinking, integrity and transparency, as well as sharing and collaboration.
The University of Montpellier approaches artificial intelligence not merely as a technological opportunity, but as a catalyst for comprehensive transformation. From research to teaching, through administration and civil society, every step taken by UM places AI on a responsible, inclusive, and sustainable path.
With this ambitious roadmap, the University of Montpellier reaffirms its commitment to being an augmented campus, serving students, researchers, and society.