Lower Austria's science turbo: 3.3 million for AI and research!

Lower Austria's science turbo: 3.3 million for AI and research!

Niederösterreich, Österreich - A new step in the research landscape is taken in Lower Austria. The state government provides 3.3 million euros for innovative research ideas to advance science and technology in the state. A central point of this initiative is the tender for a new foundation professorship for artificial intelligence, which is financed with 1.5 million euros. The aim is to create a new research focus at a university in Lower Austria, which deals with topics such as smart farming, renewable raw materials, clean mobility and sustainable soil use. LH deputy Stephan Pernkopf gave the official starting signal for these science focus.

research focuses and mobility transition

The development and promotion of research initiatives in Lower Austria comes at a time when the mobility turnaround also focuses on. A study by Fraunhofer Iese and Fraunhofer IML, which was carried out on behalf of DB Regio AG, addresses the public mobility of the future and the necessary changes to achieve the climate protection goals. The bus in particular is highlighted as an important sustainable mobility offer that can promote many people with little energy and does not require any additional infrastructure.

Nevertheless, the study shows that many people in rural and suburban regions continue to fall back on their own car. The reasons for this are the insufficient clockwork of the bus lines, lack of flexibility and high driving prices. In order to make local public transport more attractive, measures are necessary that establish the bus as an integral part of the mobility landscape and focus on user needs. The results of this study are to be presented in a lecture in which Patrick Mennig and Svenja Polst are available for further information.

artificial intelligence as a key technology

The focus on artificial intelligence is not only reflected in the initiatives of Lower Austria, but has also become more important at the national level. Austria sees AI as a key technology to increase economic competitiveness and to cope with social challenges. In order to strengthen the innovation location of Austria, the government of AI promotes programs and the national strategy AIM at 2030. This strategy aims to promote research and digital skills and to create a legal framework.

In different industries, including mechanical engineering, logistics and healthcare, KI plays a central role in increasing the efficiency of processes. Companies such as Voestalpine and Billa are already implementing AI to optimize production processes and better manage inventory. In addition, AI is used in the healthcare system for diagnosis and personalized medicine. Austria has established itself as a hotspot for AI research and actively participates in international initiatives such as "Horizon Europe" and the European AI Alliance. Nevertheless, those responsible face challenges in data management and cyber security that need to be mastered in order to exploit the full potential of AI. Thanks to financial incentives and creating a clear legal and ethical framework, the course is set for a successful future. These developments not only promise economic opportunities, but also social improvements in quality of life and sustainability through AI-based applications.