The University of Southern California (USC) is set to make a significant impact at the 2026 International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR), taking place from April 23-27 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With 24 papers accepted, USC has achieved a remarkable 70% increase in submissions since 2024, showcasing its growing influence in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. Notably, professor Maja Matarić, who holds the Chan Soon-Shiong Chair and is a Distinguished Professor of Computer Science, Neuroscience, and Pediatrics, will kick off the conference with a keynote titled “The Challenges of Human-Centered AI and Robotics.” This talk will address the evolving expectations for intelligent machines and the integration of robotics and AI for improved human-machine interaction. The selection process for oral presentations at ICLR is extremely competitive, with only about 1% of submissions accepted. USC's four selected papers include significant contributions from faculty and students across various departments, including the Viterbi School of Engineering and the Annenberg School for Communication. This year's conference represents a milestone for USC, further solidifying its position as a leader in AI research.