Keynote Panel: AI & Sustainability –  The Future of Climate Innovation

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we approach climate challenges, from predictive modeling to clean energy advancements. This keynote panel brings together leaders in sustainability, AI, climate science, and innovation to explore how emerging technologies are shaping a more resilient and sustainable world.

Panelists will discuss AI-driven climate solutions, the intersection of data and sustainability, and the role of policy and innovation in driving meaningful change. Whether you’re interested in technology, research, or real-world impact, this conversation will provide valuable insights into the future of sustainability at Northeastern and beyond. 

Date: March 11, 11am to 12:30pm EST

Location: Curry Student Center, Boston Campus 

Meet the Keynote 

Amy Luer
Amy Luers
Senior Global Director, Sustainability, Science & Innovation, Microsoft

A leader in climate resilience, sustainability, and AI-driven innovation, with over 20 years of experience shaping science-based policy and technology solutions. She previously served as Executive Director of Future Earth and as Assistant Director for Climate Resilience and Information in the Obama White House, driving national climate adaptation strategies. A recognized expert in climate risk, ecosystems, and digital sustainability, she has led global research initiatives, advised impact investment funds, and published extensively on climate and technology.

Meet the Panelists 

Moira Zellner
Professor, Public Policy & Urban Affairs | Director, NULab for Texts, Maps, and Networks, Northeastern University

An expert in urban sustainability, complex systems, and participatory modeling. Her research integrates AI, data science, and stakeholder engagement to shape policy solutions for climate resilience, land use, and environmental justice—advancing sustainability through collaborative decision-making and computational modeling.

Auroop Ganguly
COE Distinguished Professor, Northeastern University | Chief Scientist, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

A climate and data science expert with nearly 27 years of experience across academia, government, and industry. He leads research on AI-driven climate modeling, infrastructure resilience, and extreme weather prediction, with work published in top scientific journals and cited in global climate assessments.

Ayan Paul
AI and Life Sciences Research Scientist, The Institute of Experiential AI, Northeastern University

Specializing in RNA biology, genetics, and disease modeling, Ayan leverages machine learning to study genetic sequences, develop targeted therapeutics, and advance understanding of complex traits. He has contributed to major discoveries in particle physics, epidemiology, and computational socioeconomics.

Galen Nelson
Chief Climate Officer, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center

A clean energy and climate innovation leader with over 15 years of experience in policy, technology commercialization, and sustainable economic development. He drives partnerships across industry, academia, and government to advance climate solutions, with a focus on building a regional climatetech economy and scaling clean energy initiatives.