Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the key to success in novel applications ranging from robotics to speech- and image-recognition systems, and from stock forecast investment systems to informal communication between robots and humans. The last two decades have seen AIfs focus shift from philosophical arguments to practical applications in both science and technology. AI researchers and educators have simultaneously recognized mutual commonality in their work and have initiated much-needed multidisciplinary approaches to AI.

Guest Editor, Michael Negnevitsky, organized the 3rd International Workshop on Artificial Intelligence in Science and Technology (AISAT 2009) in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia last year, bringing together a globally diverse group of scientists and engineers to discuss issues related to practical AI applications in science and technology. The workshop featured presentations from the US, Japan, Malaysia, Spain, Kuwait, and Australia. All papers were peer reviewed by two experts for technical content, contribution, and originality to ensure high presentation quality. Fewer than 30% of submissions were accepted for presentation at the Workshop.

Authors of the most outstanding presentations at AISAT 2009 were encouraged to submit manuscripts to this special issue, whose papers present innovative approaches and promising practical applications for AI. Submissions were reviewed for relevance, originality, significance, and presentation based on JACIII review criteria.

We are sure that readers will find these papers both interesting and inspiring. We hope also that they will motivate researchers to expand their studies on AI applications in science and technology.