Director AI Labs leaves for Leiden

Thomas Dohmen, co-initiator and director of the AI Labs, has left Utrecht University and is now establishing a collaborative AI network at Leiden University.

In 2020, Dohmen, together with faculty professor Gerard Barkema, initiated the AI Labs. These labs facilitate long-term collaboration between researchers, students, government organisations, companies, and other institutions to find AI solutions for pressing societal issues. As a result, scientific research is more swiftly translated into practical applications, and professionals from various fields are trained in the use of new technologies.

Dohmen was instrumental in forging partnerships with organisations such as the national police, NS, Qbuzz, KLM, ING, and various ministries and municipalities. “Building the ecosystem around the Utrecht AI Labs has been a remarkable experience, and it is wonderful to see how the numerous collaborations across diverse fields have already made a visible impact,” said Dohmen.

Leiden University

In Leiden, Dohmen will establish a similar network at the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science. “I look forward to applying the experience I gained in Utrecht to connect Leiden University with a regional and national network of organisations that address societal issues, where knowledge of AI and data science can make a significant contribution.”

Scientific director Remco Veltkamp praises the energy with which Dohmen has developed and implemented the concept of the AI Labs over the past few years. “He leaves behind a range of successful AI Labs. We will cherish these gems and help them continue to grow.” Veltkamp hopes to maintain a collaborative relationship with Dohmen in his new position.