“AI research at our two universities has every opportunity to enrich each other and be a leading hub for AI research in Sweden,” says Alexandre Proutiere, a well-known researcher at KTH in computer science and machine learning who now joins Chalmers part-time to strengthen the research environment in AI.
"Deeper collaboration in an area that is crucial for societal development will benefit both KTH, Chalmers and, by extension, Sweden. Alexandre Proutiere also leads one of our strategic research initiatives at KTH in AI and, with his new role at Chalmers, will be excellent for further developing the collaboration between us." says Annika Borgenstam, Vice President for Research at KTH.
Anders Palmqvist, Vice President for Research at Chalmers, is of a similar view:
“The appointment of Alexandre Proutiere as Scientific Advisor to CHAIR is an important reinforcement that at the same time shows how well our academic environments can interact in a strategically important field,” says Anders Palmqvist.
The Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems and Software Program (WASP) has long played a crucial role in putting Sweden on the AI map. Recently, the AI Commission's report Roadmap for Sweden was published, which emphasizes that Sweden's competitiveness depends on conducting cutting-edge research in the field of AI.
This year, Chalmers and KTH also participate in shared program activities during the Almedalen Week. Earlier this year, the presidents of both universities made a joint visit to the Swedish Parliament and wrote an opinion piece in Dagens Industri.
A hub for AI research in Sweden
To consolidate Chalmers as one of Sweden's leading hub for AI research in Sweden, Alexandre Proutiere highlights three possible elements in the work ahead:
1. Refining the research agenda
Identify and prioritize key AI areas where innovation can be driven forward. This could include supporting relevant projects and making strategic recruitments to strengthen key areas at Chalmers.
2. Strengthened partnerships
Strengthen partnerships between AI research at Chalmers, for example within CHAIR, and key stakeholders in industry and public organizations.
“In AI, the gap between research and practical application is small, making collaboration crucial for success,” says Alexandre Proutiere.
3. Mechanisms to keep AI development at the forefront
Design mechanisms to ensure that researchers and collaborators stay up to date on AI developments. Staying informed about the latest developments is crucial not only for the research but also for maintaining an updated curriculum at Chalmers.
“By aligning educational programs with cutting-edge AI, we can attract and equip the next generation of talented students”, adds Alexandre Proutiere.
Fredrik Johansson, Deputy Director of CHAIR, welcomes the recruitment:
“The addition of Alexandre Proutiere, one of the country's most prominent AI researchers, to CHAIR is a great boost for the center and will help us put Chalmers and Sweden on the AI map.”
AI research at Chalmers and Chalmers AI Research Center, CHAIR
CHAIR is Chalmers' strategic investment in research, education and collaboration in artificial intelligence. The center brings together researchers from across the university and works interdisciplinary to develop and apply AI technology in close collaboration with industry and society. Through CHAIR, Chalmers strengthens Sweden's position in AI and contributes to a responsible and sustainable development of the technology.
About Alexandre Proutiere
Alexandre Proutiere is a professor at KTH and holds a PhD in applied mathematics from Ecole Polytechnique in Paris.