Whether climate models, transport planning or artificial intelligence: Data science provides valuable insights for many questions about the future. This was also impressively demonstrated by the sixth “Women in Data Science Regensburg”.
Around 160 participants gathered at the Jahnstadion Regensburg on 18 June to discuss current developments related to data and artificial intelligence with six female scientists from research and industry. The specialist conference, organised among others by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Maike Stern from OTH Regensburg and Dr. Elisabeth Moser, Krones AG, focused in particular on the potential of data-driven technologies for greater sustainability.
Data for climate, environment and mobility
This year’s programme showcased the broad spectrum of modern data science. The focus was on researching the causes of heatwaves, the interactions between soil, atmosphere and climate, satellite-based Earth observation and innovative approaches to sustainable mobility, for example using drones or sensor-equipped bicycles. The projects presented made it clear just how much potential lies in machine learning and intelligent data analysis: They help to better understand traffic flows, identify safety risks at an early stage and develop infrastructure in line with demand – an important foundation for sustainable decisions.
AI – between trust and responsibility
It also became clear that humans and AI, working as a team, do not automatically make better decisions than either would alone. Excessive trust in AI results and different ways of thinking and decision-making can complicate collaboration. Approaches for more transparent and fair AI systems were therefore discussed, as well as the development of inclusive language models that take different linguistic and human perspectives into account right from the start. Intelligent search and recommendation systems for millions of users must also be continuously developed and evaluated. Discussions like these highlighted that technological innovation requires not only powerful algorithms, but also continuous exchange between research and industry.
Krones commitment to exchange and fostering young talent
As a regional branch of a global initiative by Stanford University, which aims to promote diversity in STEM professions and strengthen the data science community, the event was not only supported by Krones but also actively shaped through its involvement in the organising team. In addition to the specialist presentations, the poster session in particular provided space for exchange between academia, industry, early-career researchers and students. Krones AG was not only represented as a partner, the Krones.digital Community team also showcased its own conference poster. In doing so, Krones made an important contribution to connecting research and practice as well as promoting future specialists in data-driven technology fields.
In the images: impressions from the specialist conference
