TU Eindhoven, RWTH Aachen, and KU Leuven have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to boost AI research and collaboration in Europe.
The aim of the collaboration, called the ELA AI triangle, is to boost AI research and education in the three countries, as well as in Europe as a whole.
Specifically, the co-operation will focus on AI for high-tech systems due to the universities’ specialisations.
Boosting AI research in Europe is extremely important
With the potential to have a global impact in the coming decades, AI is gaining momentum in a wide variety of sectors.
When AI is used positively, it can bring about benefits to society, including helping us to reach climate goals or being used as a defensive mechanism in cybersecurity.
However, the uptake of the technology also comes with significant risks and has the potential to create socioeconomic changes.
Therefore, to fully reap the benefits that AI has to offer, Europe must co-ordinate research efforts.
Rector Magnificus Silvia Lenaerts, who signed the agreement on behalf of TU/e at the Aachen AI Week, said: “With the lightning-fast developments in the field of AI, it is very important to be able to work together as three top European players and learn from each other.
“This will not only benefit students, scientists, and companies, but it will also strengthen Europe’s position in the field of AI.”
What does the ELA AI triangle cover?
The collaboration between the three universities will look at both AI research and education.
Joint research projects will be set up by the universities, and the collaboration will also apply for grants.
In addition, the three universities will also work on exchanges of knowledge, experiences, and teaching materials between students and scientists.
The ELA AI triangle will also look into joint PhD and postdoc programmes.
Events such as colloquia, workshops, and hackathons will also be organised as part of the co-operation between the three universities.
First initiatives are set to be planned soon.
