Ontario Tech University Establishes AI and Rehabilitation Research Chair with Rinaldi Family Donation

Ontario Tech University announced on April 16, 2025, that it has established the Rinaldi Research Chair in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Rehabilitation at the Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research within the Faculty of Health Sciences. According to the university, the chair is funded by a donation from Jason and Riley Rinaldi.

The university stated that research under this chair will focus on the use of AI in rehabilitation, including applications for musculoskeletal disorders, arthritis, and concussion recovery. Ontario Tech University said the research will also address access to rehabilitation for individuals and communities that experience significant barriers to care.

Dr. Carol Cancelliere has been appointed as the inaugural holder of the Rinaldi Research Chair. According to Ontario Tech University, Dr. Cancelliere will lead research using AI technologies such as machine learning and predictive analytics to assist with diagnosis, prognosis, treatment planning, and development of remote rehabilitation services.

The university said that all AI rehabilitation tools developed in this initiative will be designed to meet ethical standards and regulatory requirements, with a focus on transparency, patient safety, and data protection. According to Ontario Tech University, the title of the chair recognizes more than ten years of philanthropic support from the Rinaldi family.