Amy Loutfi appointed program director for WASP – Sweden’s leading AI research initiative

“I am enthusiastic and ready to step into the role of program director for Sweden’s largest research initiative. WASP is a transformative opportunity to drive meaningful progress in AI, Autonomous Systems, and Software through research excellence and bridging knowledge and industry. And through innovation, impact society and the business world,” says Amy Loutfi.

Amy Loutfi, an engineering graduate from Canada, earned her PhD in computer science at Örebro University in 2006. Her research interests have expanded to include machine perception and human-robot interaction. In 2020, she was elected a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences and is currently a Wallenberg Scholar. She has been active within WASP for many years, most recently as director of recruitment.

“I bring experience in combining hands-on scientific research with strategic research management, which provides a unique perspective needed to lead complex initiatives like WASP.”

As program director, Amy Loutfi will be based at Linköping University. Her primary employer is Örebro University, and her research activities will continue at Örebro University and Linköping University.

“We are very pleased and proud that Professor Amy Loutfi has been entrusted with the important appointment of new program director at WASP. She will be active at both Linköping and Örebro University, which will also strengthen collaboration on AI research between our two universities,” says Johan Schnürer, Vice-Chancellor of Örebro University.

Anders Ynnerman reflects on five eventful years

Anders Ynnerman began as program director in 2020, leaving a legacy of significant milestones.

“Leading WASP during five eventful years has been a true pleasure. A growing graduate school, numerous recruitments of researchers to Sweden, investment in solid research constellations and collaboration with other research programs are a few of our achievements. WASP is now an essential player in the development of AI in Sweden and catalyses collaboration between academia, industry, and society

In January, Ynnerman will assume the role of chair of WASP, a position he eagerly anticipates.

“I look forward to continuing as the chair of WASP and supporting Amy Loutfi with my experience leading WASP.”

Accelerating Sweden’s academic success

As the new program director, Amy Loutfi aims to focus on WASP’s rapid growth and the significance of its impact on Sweden’s academia, industry, and societal transformation.

“Thanks to the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, Sweden has experienced a significant shift in AI, autonomous systems, and software since starting in 2015. Entering its tenth year, WASP is doing so with remarkable momentum. Moving forward, we plan to continue accelerating and focus on increasing visibility. New initiatives within WASP will be launched soon, propelling Sweden’s academic excellence into the future.”