Kairos: Advancing Norway’s human–AI collaboration in the workplace

About Kairos 

The Kairos research project focuses on understanding and developing the interaction between humans and AI agents in the workplace. Instead of viewing AI as a replacement for people, the project explores how technology and humans can complement each other in complex, knowledge-intensive processes. 

Running from 2025 to 2029, the project aims to develop knowledge, tools, and models that help Norwegian organizations use artificial intelligence in ways that strengthen collaboration, innovation, and trust. The project is funded by the Research Council of Norway and has a budget of approximately NOK 40 million. 

Kairos aims to build knowledge that enables Norwegian organizations to become world leaders in the practical and responsible use of artificial intelligence. The project will develop solutions that make collaboration between humans and AI agents possible across teams, systems, and tasks. 

The project is structured around three main areas: 

Digital infrastructure for collaboration – a flexible platform for the secure and responsible use of AI. 

Sociotechnical collaboration model – a model ensuring that humans and AI work together in ways that build trust and support ethical use. 

AI as a team member – developing AI agents that not only support tasks but actively participate in teamwork, decision-making, and innovation. 

Method 

Kairos is based on action research, a method in which researchers and organizations work closely together to explore, test, and improve practices. This means that partners actively contribute to defining challenges, testing solutions in real contexts, and sharing insights across sectors.

The research team from SINTEF combines qualitative studies, experimental design, and technological development to understand how AI can best support collaboration between humans.