In an interview with Communications Manager Franziska Peters, Dr. Johannes Winter, member of the AI Grid Executive Board and CSO at the L3S AI Research Center, talks about the importance of the AI Grid for career development in the field of artificial intelligence. He shares valuable tips on how young talents can improve their career opportunities and discusses the support the AI Grid offers in facing the challenges and opportunities of modern AI technologies.
Personal details: Dr. Johannes Winter has dedicated his professional career to the development and implementation of strategies for the transfer of AI into practice. After six years as head of the Learning systems platform he is currently Chief Strategy Officer at the L3S Research Center and Managing Director at CAIMed - Lower Saxony Center for AI and Causal Methods in Medicine. These positions enable him to drive forward research and transfer of AI applications in the fields of production, mobility, medicine and education.
Dr. Winter is also a dedicated member of the Executive Board of the AI Grid, where he is helping to shape a pan-European community of young scientists.
Why is the L3S AI research center involved in the AI Grid?
The L3S is a research center that deals with digital transformation and the challenges and opportunities of artificial intelligence and other digital technologies. Its AI-related research activities focus on the development of methods and systems in the areas of text mining and search, knowledge graphs and data integration, natural language processing and large language models, scene and video analysis as well as machine learning and deep learning. It cooperates with universities, research institutions and industry to develop new solutions that meet both scientific and practical requirements.
The L3S is involved in the AI Grid to promote collaboration between research, industry and educational institutions. Through this partnership, research results can be translated into practical applications more quickly, accelerating new paths in AI and supporting the development of AI skills at national and international level.
How can AI Grid members benefit from this connection between the L3S and the AI Grid?
Members of the AI Grid benefit from the connection through access to the latest research results and technological developments of the L3S. They can participate in joint projects, receive further training in specialized workshops and work directly with leading scientists.
What is your personal motivation for promoting the AI Grid as a member of the Executive Committee?
Personally, I see the AI Grid as an important initiative to establish Germany as a leading nation in AI research and application. I am motivated by the opportunity to support young talents and actively shape the German AI landscape.
What unique opportunities does the AI Grid offer young AI talents and what experiences have you had with it?
My personal experience with the AI Grid has been consistently positive. A particular highlight was the "Meet Your Mentor" event at our premises in Hanover, which enabled direct and personal contact between experienced AI professionals and ambitious young talents. This type of event is crucial for building networks and establishing long-term professional relationships. The mentors showed great passion and commitment to their fields, which was very inspiring for the young careers of our members. It reminded me of what it's like to be at the very beginning and wondering who you can talk to about your career plans, getting valuable tips and networking access.
I have heard from AI Grid members that many of them are still unsure which career path to take: a career in science or a job in business or an NGO? The AI Grid offers them a kind of compass that guides them through the diverse possibilities of the AI landscape and enables them to discover research and application areas that pique their interest. In addition, events such as the Science and Innovation Tours offer insights into various industries, from the film industry to technology start-ups and research institutions across Europe.
Why should young AI talents join the AI Grid?
Young AI talents should join the AI Grid to benefit from the combination of theory and practice, access to leading AI researchers and the numerous training opportunities. It is a unique opportunity to be at the cutting edge of technological development and develop your skills in a supportive mentoring program and innovative environment.
What advice can you give to young people who want to get started with AI?
My advice is not only to concentrate on your studies, but also to gain practical experience. Get involved in projects, take part in competitions and build up a professional network. Be curious and open to new challenges, because AI technologies and their diverse applications are developing rapidly.
