# CAREER: From Language Models to World Models: New Inference, Learning, and Modeling for Machine Reasoning

> **NSF 01002829DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of California-San Diego (CA) · $600,000

## Abstract

Developing intelligent machines capable of reasoning efficiently and robustly at a human level is of critical importance across numerous real-world domains, including healthcare, finance, entertainment, and beyond. Current large language models represent some of the most powerful intelligent systems created to date, demonstrating remarkable abilities in text generation and human-like conversation. However, these models often fail in surprising ways, particularly when confronted with complex reasoning challenges such as multi-step logical or mathematical inference or planning action sequences for tasks in physical environments. In contrast, humans approach reasoning in a fundamentally different way. Equipped with a mental model of the world, humans form a consistent understanding of their environment, enabling robust and deliberate reasoning. This world model allows us to simulate alternative actions, predict their outcomes, and refine our reasoning based on these simulations. This project aims to develop the next-generation machine reasoning capabilities by systematically incorporating the key concept of “world model” into the design, training, and application of new reasoning models. The research will deliver a comprehensive set of innovative algorithms and models to elevate machine reasoning to a new level of flexibility, consistency, and robustness. Furthermore, the project will support the development of new undergraduate and graduate courses, provide mentorship to studen

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2443468
- **Awardee organization:** University of California-San Diego (CA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** UYTTZT6G9DT1
- **PI:** Zhiting Hu
- **Primary program:** 01002829DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, INFO INTEGRATION & INFORMATICS
- **Estimated total:** $600,000
- **Funds obligated:** $381,276
- **Transaction type:** Continuing Grant
- **Period:** 06/15/2025 → 05/31/2030

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2443468

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2443468, CAREER: From Language Models to World Models: New Inference, Learning, and Modeling for Machine Reasoning. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2443468. Licensed CC0.

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