The University of Aberdeen is one of several UK Universities joining the Turing University Network as it expands its membership.
The Turing University Network offers UK universities, with an interest in data science and AI, the opportunity to engage and collaborate both with the Institute and its broader networks in academia, industry and the public sector. It also connects universities across the data science and AI ecosystem, provides access to bespoke network activity and encourages collaborations as opportunities arise.
The network first launched as a pilot in April 2023 with 36 universities from the Turing’s university partners and Turing Network Development Award recipients. An open call for new members was then launched in early summer 2023.
Professor Georgios Leontidis, Interdisciplinary Director of Data and AI, who led the University’s application and will act as Turing Liaison (academic) said: “The University of Aberdeen is delighted to join the Turing University Network. The Alan Turing Institute plays a pivotal role in shaping the UK’s Data Science and AI ecosystem, having a strong presence internationally as well.
“Our membership of the Turing University Network is a testament to our world-leading activities both in fundamental and interdisciplinary AI research, across healthcare, agri-food, social sciences, energy and environment.
“Our University, with the Interdisciplinary Centre for Data and AI acting as a focal point for all AI-related interdisciplinary activities, will capitalise on this partnership towards growing our research community and collaborations with The Alan Turing Institute and its broader networks.
“Our joining the network builds upon several recent successes, including co-leading the new BBSRC AI in the Biosciences Network, recruiting several Interdisciplinary Fellows, participating in the leadership of the Scottish AI Alliance, and expanding our work with industrial partners, such as Siemens Energy, Angus Growers, and ScreenIn3D.”
Alongside Professor Leontidis, Interdisciplinary Research Development Executive, Emma Morrison will also take up the role of Turing Liaison. She said: “As the professional services link between The Alan Turing Institute and the University I am looking forward to promoting Turing opportunities, programmes, and schemes within the University to maximise engagement with the Institute. As well as coordinating and supporting University input to network engagement activity, I am excited to collaborate with my Turing Liaison counterparts across the UK to promote the University and its activity, and input to the development of new network initiatives.”
Dr Jean Innes, Chief Executive Officer of The Alan Turing Institute, said: “We’re really pleased to welcome our new members to the network. We hope that they will benefit from being part of our data science and AI group and find opportunities for new, meaningful collaborations across the data science and AI landscape.”