The journey into the world of big data and artificial intelligence has begun with the steps of a dance for the participants of the GATE Summer Internship Program 2024. Eighteen students from different universities in Bulgaria and abroad, with the desire and ambition to develop their skills in the field of new technologies and to be part of the team of researchers working on applied research in the field of Future cities, Digital health, and Disinformation enthusiastically crossed the threshold of the high-tech building of the Institute.
Thus, in addition to being the first Centre of excellence in big data and artificial intelligence in Eastern Europe, GATE is also becoming a centre of attraction for a new generation of scientists and researchers, bringing together for three months enthusiastic students from SU “St. Kliment Ohridski” (Bulgaria), Eindhoven University of Technology and Delft University of Technology (Netherlands), Fachhochschule Salzburg (Austria), Bocconi University (Italy), and Washington University in St. Louis (USA).
In this period, the young people will touch and contribute to significant research and innovation for the benefit of the people. They will have the opportunity to gain practical experience and work on interdisciplinary research projects alongside leading experts in their chosen field. Last but not least, by proving their talent and qualities, interns get a real chance to join the inspiring team of GATE researchers who will be their mentors.
The participants of the Summer Internship Program 2024 were welcomed by GATE Director Prof. Sylvia Ilieva, who revealed to them the vast horizon of opportunities at the institute.
“Together we will explore topics such as 3D city modeling, building-induced change research, pedestrian accessibility and mobility, parametric urban planning, thermofluid simulations of air flows and pollution propagation, and impact and mitigation of the urban heat island.” Our goal is to unlock the potential of the future cities and develop solutions that will guide data-driven decision-making that will contribute to creating more sustainable cities and communities,” noted the head of the “Future Cities” prof. Desislava Petrova–Antonova immediately threw the gauntlet to the trainees with an exciting dance challenge.
Thus, the young new team and its mentors danced together in one rhythm – a symbolic beginning through the power of music that erases borders, unites, and inspires people. It was a flying start of creativity and science in one.