Ontario Tech University proudly announces the establishment of the Rinaldi Research Chair in AI and Rehabilitation within the Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research in the Faculty of Health Sciences. This initiative is inspired by the immense potential of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to unlock innovation in health care. The research will focus on improving mobility, independence and quality of life for individuals recovering from injury, illness or other challenges.
This initiative is made possible by a generous gift from Jason and Riley Rinaldi as part of the university's Tech with a Conscience campaign. Dr. Carol Cancelliere, the newly appointed chair, will lead the development of advanced AI strategies for rehabilitation, with a focus on addressing unmet needs in areas such as musculoskeletal disorders, arthritis and concussion recovery.
Rinaldi Research Chair in AI and Rehabilitation recognition event (April 14, 2025). From left: Dr. Pierre Côté, Director, Institute for Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation, and Professor, Faculty of Health Sciences (FHSc); James Barnett, Vice-President, Advancement, Ontario Tech University; Dr. Carol Cancelliere, Rinaldi Research Chair, FHSc; Riley Rinaldi; Jason Rinaldi; Joel Weisberg, graduate student, Faculty of Health Sciences.
"I am honoured to serve as the inaugural Rinaldi Research Chair in AI and Rehabilitation," says Dr. Cancelliere. "Jason and Riley Rinaldi's visionary gift empowers us to revolutionize rehabilitation with ethical and innovative AI solutions. Their support will help us expand access to evidence-based, personalized rehabilitation, particularly for individuals and communities that face the greatest barriers to care. This investment positions Ontario Tech at the forefront of human-centred, data-driven rehabilitation research."
Dr. Cancelliere plans to use AI technologies such as machine learning and predictive analytics to refine diagnoses, improve prognoses, personalize treatment plans, enhance remote rehabilitation services, and improve patient outcomes. By designing AI-powered tools that prioritize the needs of individuals, she will ensure these advancements are developed ethically and are accessible to those who need them most. Her work will contribute to creating lasting solutions that enhance rehabilitation and recovery.
In line with the university's Tech with a Conscience ethos, transparency, patient safety and data protection will be prioritized. All AI-driven rehabilitation solutions will adhere to the highest ethical standards and regulatory guidelines.
With more than a decade of philanthropic commitment to the university, the Rinaldi family's latest contribution reinforces their dedication to promoting innovation and creating a positive societal impact.
"Jason and Riley Rinaldi's generosity embodies the spirit of our Tech with a Conscience campaign, ensuring that groundbreaking research translates into meaningful improvements in people's lives," says James Barnett, Vice-President, Advancement. "The Ontario Tech community deeply values the Rinaldis' support and ongoing partnership. We are excited to continue working together to drive innovation and broaden the impact of AI-driven rehabilitation research."
