Strengthening International Collaboration: The chair of information infrastructures at Oxford

Prof. Ali Sunyaev, Vice President of TUM Campus Heilbronn and Head of the Research Group Information Infrastructures, was joined by six of his team members for two days of deep academic exchange. Together, they contributed to high-level discussions and helped shape the direction of future research in the field of responsible AI.

The team engaged with scholars from the University of Oxford, Technische Universität Berlin, and the University of Toronto, among others, discussing cutting-edge developments and emerging challenges in the design and deployment of AI systems.

Held in the inspiring surroundings of St. Hilda’s College and capped with an unforgettable evening at the Bodleian Library, the Summer Meeting served as a platform for collaborative ideation and academic networking. Despite rainy weather, the mood was bright a testament to the energy and commitment of everyone involved.

Reflecting on the experience, Prof. Sunyaev shared:

“I am reminded that in life, it is so often not the circumstances that shape our experience, but the attitude we bring to them. Yes, it rains in England. But the rain, like many things, simply is — and we choose how to walk through it."

The Oxford Internet Institute, University of Oxford, is a partner in TUM Campus Heilbronn’s Joint Global AI Research Hub. Now, the long-standing collaboration is being deepened a strong sign of international knowledge exchange. This meeting marked another important milestone in expanding the relationship and strengthening the global impact of research.

For the six doctoral and postdoctoral researchers who participated, the trip was more than just an academic event. It was an opportunity to represent their work on an international stage, exchange perspectives, and build lasting relationships with peers working on similar challenges.

As Prof. Ali Sunyaev concludes:

“It’s not just the prestige of institutions like TUM and Oxford that leaves a mark, it’s the people. These moments of real human connection and intellectual exchange are what drive meaningful research.”

The Summer Meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to developing AI systems that are not only powerful, but secure, transparent, and trustworthy. For the information infrastructure research group, the experience in Oxford adds momentum to ongoing projects and opens new doors for future collaboration.

Stay tuned as we continue to explore the future of trustworthy AI together, across borders, disciplines, and institutions.