In January 2025, Amy Loutfi will take over as Program Director of WASP, succeeding Anders Ynnerman. Loutfi is a professor of Computer Science and Vice Rector for AI and Innovation at Örebro University and has a deep engagement in AI strategy for Sweden.
— I am enthusiastic and ready for the task to step into the role of Program Director for WASP, the largest research initiative in Sweden. This program is a transformative opportunity to drive meaningful progress in AI, Autonomous Systems, and Software through research excellence and by bridging knowledge, innovation, and impact on a scale, says Amy Loutfi.
Amy Loutfi earned her master’s degree in engineering in Canada and later her Ph.D. in Computer Science in Sweden in 2006. She has since expanded her research interests to include Machine Perception and Human-Robot Interaction. In 2020, she was elected to the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences and is a Wallenberg Scholar. She has been active within WASP for years, most recently as the Co-director of Recruitment.
— My experience and track record come from blending scientific research with research management, bringing a unique perspective that has always combined rigorous, hands-on investigation with the strategic oversight needed to steer complex initiatives, Loutfi adds.
Amy Loutfi will be based at Linköping University in her role as Program Director. Her primary employer will remain Örebro University, and her research activities will be conducted at both Linköping University and Örebro University.
Anders Ynnerman Reflects on Five Eventful Years
Ynnerman began his position as Program Director in July 2020, leaving behind a legacy of significant milestones.
— It has been a true pleasure to lead WASP during five eventful years. A growing graduate school, numerous recruitments of researchers to Sweden, and a strong focus on constellations of excellent researchers are a few of our achievements. WASP is now a strong force in the development of AI in Sweden and drives strategic collaboration between academia, industry, and society.
In January, Ynnerman will assume the role of Chair of WASP, a new position he eagerly anticipates.
— I look forward to continuing to develop the program in my role as Chair of the WASP board and also assist Amy Loutfi through my experiences of running WASP.
Accelerating Swedish Academic Achievements
As the new Program Director, Amy Loutfi aims to focus on WASP’s rapid growth and its impact on Sweden’s academia, industry, and societal transformation:
— Thanks to Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, there has been a true and significant step change in the landscape of AI, Autonomous Systems, and Software in Sweden since 2015. The ambition is to advance Sweden into an internationally leading position in these areas and now when WASP enters its 10th year we have an incredible momentum. Our plan going forward is to continue to gain momentum through acceleration. There are new initiatives within WASP that will be launched and that will continue to build Sweden’s academic achievement. We will also continue to push for an increased visibility.
Our warmest congratulations to Anders Ynnerman and Amy Loutfi!
Published: November 12th, 2024