Elize Herrewijnen combines her PhD at the National Police Lab AI with her job at the National Dutch Police. Under the supervision of Dong Nguyen and Albert Gatt of the Natural Language Processing Group, and Floris Bex of the National Policelab AI, she explores if and how natural language processing (NLP) can be used to optimize efficient retrieval of relevant information from a large amount of data.  Her research concerns the design and development of explainable AI techniques that function within the context of the Dutch National Police. By highlighting the importance of the human perspective in the evaluation of NLP output, Elize aims to contribute to the way in which artificial intelligence (AI) is incorporated in modern policing practises, through aiding in decision-making with textual explanations provided by AI.

Starting out as a data scientist, Elize saw how automation and AI transform the way we work. This convinced her that AI should support people rather than replace them. She believes technology must strengthen the human aspect of work, with people, rather than computers, remaining responsible for outcomes. Building on this vision, her research highlights how AI can make processes like handling reports faster and more accurate, while protecting privacy and fairness. Which aims to result in professionals working more effectively without risking citizens’ rights. 

Combining her PhD and her job at the National Dutch Police has provided Elize a unique combination of both academic and pragmatical skills. She aims to apply her expertise in explainable data science in a pragmatic way by sharing technical knowledge across different contexts.