The field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving, with a growing focus on ensuring the reliability, safety, and suitability of AI systems for deployment. Researchers are working to develop new frameworks and approaches to evaluate the maturity and trustworthiness of AI components, as well as the impact of AI standards on innovation and public trust. A broader conception of rigor in AI research and practice is also being explored, encompassing not only methodological rigor but also epistemic, normative, conceptual, reporting, and interpretative rigor. Furthermore, there is a recognition of the need for increased federal investment in foundational AI research and infrastructure to maintain leadership in the field. Additionally, preparing for the potential consequences of an intelligence explosion is becoming a pressing concern, with a need to develop strategies to address the grand challenges that may arise.

Noteworthy papers in this area include: Rethinking Technological Readiness in the Era of AI Uncertainty, which proposes a new AI Readiness Framework to evaluate the maturity and trustworthiness of AI components in military systems. Preparing for the Intelligence Explosion, which argues that AGI preparedness is not just about ensuring that advanced AI systems are aligned, but also about preparing for the disorienting range of developments an intelligence explosion would bring.