On May 7, the University of Luxembourg’s Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT) showcased over 30 projects, during their 15-year anniversary celebration, revealing a €1.5m FNR endorsement for “Autonomous systems for Land, Air and Space” (ATLAS).
The event drew over 500 attendees from diverse sectors including finance, space, ICT, public administration, and research, as well as prominent figures from science and research, including the minister of higher education Stéphanie Obertin, and the president of the European Research Council (ERC), Prof. Maria Leptin.
Over 30 projects and 500 guests
The SnT flagship event showcased a dynamic array of innovations across more than 30 booths. Attendees were immersed in projects and initiatives, spanning artificial intelligence, space exploration, autonomous vehicles, satellite interference detection, modern radar systems, sustainability, and security. Each booth served as a gateway into advancements driving progress in various industries. From AI applications to space technologies, the event provided a comprehensive glimpse into the future of technology and its impact on various sectors.
In attendance were esteemed guests from the science and research community, including public and private sector key players, as well as grant awarding body members. “I think we should encourage all researchers, and aid them, train them to apply for grants. Often people are unsure if they qualify, but they should try! Even if success rates are low, if one doesn’t try, there is certainly no chance. People should not underestimate themselves,” said Prof. Maria Leptin, the president of the European Research Council (ERC).
The opening of the event was conducted by Dr. Carlo Duprel, the Head of SnT’s Technology Transfer Office, who served as the master of ceremonies. The opening address was delivered by Prof. Jens Kreisel, the rector of the University of Luxembourg. Following this, Stéphanie Obertin, the minister for research and higher education, offered introductory remarks, commemorating Luxembourg’s scientific research efforts.
ERC on the horizon for Luxembourg
The event continued with a keynote address by Prof. Maria Leptin, the president of the European Research Council (ERC). “Luxembourg has made huge leaps. At this event today, I have seen amazing work and important achievements. I am also pleased that one of your local faculty, Prof. Björn Ottersten, is on the scientific council of the ERC. The investment that Luxembourg has made to enhance its basis of research is great. I encourage Luxembourg to keep training its researchers to apply for grants. While it was wonderful to see some of the female researchers present their work today, I encourage the University leadership to set an example by recruiting more women to senior positions,” said Prof. Leptin.
This was followed by a Q&A session featuring Prof. Björn Ottersten, SnT’s founding director and member of the ERC scientific council. The program featured flash talks from five SnT researchers, where they presented their projects in five-minute sessions.
Progress under the newly appointed director
Professor Yves Le Traon, the newly appointed Director of SnT, stepped onto the stage to commemorate the institution’s achievements and marked its 15th anniversary, where he highlighted the launch of the Autonomous Systems for Land, Air, and Space (ATLAS), secured by the Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR). “This research program aims to help prepare Luxembourg for the future. The rise of applications relying on autonomous systems underscores its strategic importance. With a collaborative vision, we seek to harness the full potential of this disruptive technology,” said Le Traon.
Prof. Yves Le Traon, concluded the event, alongside his keynote guests, cutting a ceremonial cake, celebrating 15 years of SnT projects.
The ATLAS program
The ATLAS program is set to tackle key challenges in autonomous systems, including energy optimization, orchestration of autonomous systems, and cybersecurity. Leveraging advanced technologies such as AI systems, machine learning, and robotics, these projects will drive innovations that are crucial for both terrestrial and space-based applications.
Raphaël Frank, head of UBIX research group at SnT and principal investigator, highlighted the strategic significance of the initiative, stating: “The aim is to create a long-term, open, and collaborative program. This initiative marks the first step in building expertise in autonomous and intelligent systems, positioning it as a cornerstone for Luxembourg.”
The ATLAS program is scheduled to commence in June 2024, with regular updates and public events planned to showcase project advancements and facilitate knowledge exchange among stakeholders.
