A living center of artificial intelligence
The AI Grid Science & Innovation Tour in Barcelona provided an excellent platform for young AI research talent to get to know the local AI ecosystem. Dr. Jorge Posada, Associate Director & R&D Director at Vicomtech and AI Grid Ambassador for Spain, described Barcelona as “a very good example of the dynamic AI ecosystem in Spain”, with Catalonia, Madrid and the Basque Country in particular as leading AI hubs in Spain apply. Professor Wolfgang Wahlster, CEO of AI Grid and a leading figure in the field of artificial intelligence, emphasizes that “Catalonia has a unique historical depth in AI, with its 700-year tradition in AI research starting with Ramon Llull “.
Program and objectives of the tour
The two-day program included visits to research centers and universities as well as discussions with AI experts. The aim was to experience the latest developments in AI research in Catalonia, initiate scientific exchange with young researchers and make initial contacts with laboratories and research organizations. These interactions allowed AI Grid participants to gain direct insights into advanced research projects and expand personal networks with industry partners.
Important stops on the tour
Among other things, the AI Grid members visited the Barcelona Supercomputing Center and the IIIA-CSIC, the Artificial Intelligence Research Institute. These institutions are recognized not only in Spain but worldwide for their novel contributions to AI research.
An important expansion of German-Spanish cooperation in research
The participants were able to gain valuable insights into the application of AI in various areas and now have a solid basis for initiating cooperation projects. Dr. Posada emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “I hope that this excursion will help to identify some relevant players in the field of AI in Spain and possible future ones
To initiate collaborations with universities, technology centers or industry.”
