Innovative Research College at Mainz University of Applied Sciences and the University of Koblenz
The “AI-DPA” research college kicked off with a launch event on January 22, 2024, at the Gutenberg Digital Hub. The research college, which is a joint initiative of Mainz University of Applied Sciences and the University of Koblenz, bears the full title “Analysis and Interpretation of Unstructured Data and Processes in Two- and Three-Dimensional Application Scenarios Using Machine Learning.” In the presence of Rhineland-Palatinate’s Minister of Science Clemens Hoch, the President of Mainz University of Applied Sciences, Prof. Dr. Susanne Weissman, and the Vice President for Research and Transfer, Prof. Dr. Anett Mehler-Bicher, the five doctoral candidates were introduced to the public.
Computer Visualistics and Predictive Process Monitoring
The doctoral research is divided into two blocks: one focuses on issues in the field of computer visualistics (e.g., accessibility in indoor and outdoor spaces), and the other on predictive process monitoring—that is, the detection, prediction, and optimization of processes (e.g., in chatbots, click data, and media data) using machine learning. The project aims to contribute to the digital transformation of the media industry, the medical sector, and other fields. The goal is to lay the foundation for well-informed, data-driven decisions. The research group provides insights and developments regarding the advanced application of AI methods.
Minister of Science Clemens Hoch emphasized the importance of AI research for economic and technological development in Rhineland-Palatinate. University President Prof. Dr. Susanne Weissman also spoke positively about the potential of the new research college and particularly praised its interdisciplinary approach. The cross-institutional collaboration between the participating universities, their respective departments, and the doctoral candidates promises innovative approaches and solutions to the challenges in data processing and process optimization.
Regional Data Partners from the Media and Medical Sectors
Prof. Dr. Sven Pagel, spokesperson for the research college, is delighted with the launch: “The ‘AI-DPA’ research college is a shining example of how academic research and practical application can go hand in hand to solve real-world problems.” Two regional data partners from the media and medical sectors are actively involved in the project to ensure that the research is both scientifically rigorous and application-oriented. Rebecca Glinka, Head of Backend, Operations, and Data at ARD Online, attended the kick-off meeting. On behalf of the Institute for Digital Health Data, the new Executive Director, Philipp Kachel, outlined potential application scenarios. The research college may also integrate additional data partners in the future.
As part of the research college, a total of five early-career researchers from the two universities are pursuing doctoral degrees. It is particularly noteworthy that three of the five doctoral candidates in the fields of business informatics and applied computer science are women. The kick-off meeting gave the doctoral candidates the opportunity to introduce themselves in person and present their research approaches and goals. The diversity and depth of the topics clearly demonstrated the breadth of the “AI-DPA” Research College. The five future doctoral candidates will be supervised by three university professors—Prof. Dr. Patrick Delfmann (Deputy Spokesperson), Prof. Dr. Peer Neubert, and Prof. Dr. Dietrich Paulus—as well as by three university professors—Prof. Dr. Thomas Klauer, Prof. Dr. Sven Pagel (spokesperson), and Prof. Dr. Tobias Walter.
Further information and details on the “AI-DPA” Research College can be found on the website