Florian Martin-Bariteau awarded University Research Chair on Technology and Society

Faculty of Law - Common Law Section
University Research Chair

By Common Law

Communication, Faculty of Law

Florian Martin-Bariteau awarded University Research Chair on Technology and Society
Our lives have become digital and increasingly governed by algorithms. While they promise significant benefits, recent developments in automated and quantum technology have added to the significant challenges faced by modern societies. The omnipresence of algorithms demands research into the societal impacts of these technologies and how our legal systems can protect citizens consistently and effectively.

Dr. Florian Martin-Bariteau—Director of the Centre for Law, Technology and Society (CLTS)—has been awarded the University Research Chair on Technology and Society, a fitting recognition of his proven leadership and research record. His excellence, productivity and achievements since joining the Faculty in September 2016 have been recognized in the academic world and beyond. His tireless interdisciplinary research on issues of law and technology consistently highlights contemporary issues of importance to the entire international community.

Dr. Martin-Bariteau will use his new appointment to advance an ambitious research program in the law, ethics and policy of technologies related to the security, regulation and governance of artificial intelligence, blockchain and quantum technologies. More generally, the research will focus on the intersection of law and technology, with a focus on the emergence of an algorithmic law. Dr. Martin-Bariteau will examine the use of automated technologies as tools for decision-making, governance and regulation, while studying their effects on democratic freedoms, access to law and justice. The Chair will develop proposals for public policies anchored in rigorous research and deploy awareness-raising and outreach activities aimed at industry, public decision-makers and civil society.

In addition to Dr. Martin-Bariteau’s success, our colleague in the Civil Law Section, Dr. Céline Castets-Renard, a world-renowned leader in the regulation of artificial intelligence, has been awarded the University Research Chair in Accountable Artificial Intelligence in A Global Context.

Dr. Martin-Bariteau’s five-year term began on July 1, 2020.

Congratulations to Dr. Martin-Bariteau on this important achievement. The Common Law Section is extremely proud to have among its members one of Canada’s leaders in technology law, ethics and policy.

Click here to see the full list of new research chairs.