EU Unveils RAISE Virtual Institute: Revolutionizing AI Research

Europe Embraces a New Era of Innovation at the Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Cutting-Edge Research

Recently, the European AI in Science Summit held in Copenhagen, in collaboration with the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU, witnessed a groundbreaking moment with the introduction of RAISE – the Resource for Artificial Intelligence Science in Europe.

RAISE, a virtual institute, is set to revolutionize scientific discovery in Europe by leveraging AI to address critical challenges such as advancing cancer treatments, earthquake prediction, and environmental sustainability.

According to Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, collaboration is key to Europe’s strength, and RAISE embodies this ethos by uniting leading scientists from diverse disciplines to conduct exceptional AI-driven research.

RAISE: A Game-Changing Initiative for Scientific Innovation in Europe

As a cornerstone of the European Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in Science and the Apply AI Strategy, RAISE aims to consolidate Europe’s AI resources to drive cutting-edge research and practical applications in science.

Supported by €107m under the Horizon Europe program, the pilot phase underscores the EU’s commitment to prioritizing science and technology in its economic and technological agenda.

Empowering Europe’s Leadership in AI Science

RAISE will serve as a virtual European institute, granting researchers access to AI ‘Gigafactories’ and high-performance computing to enhance AI-driven research outcomes. The institute will also facilitate data curation and integration to support scientific endeavors.

Nurturing Talent and Excellence in Research

Central to RAISE is the development of scientific talent, with a €75m allocation for Networks of Excellence and Doctoral Networks. The European Commission plans to double its annual investment in AI under Horizon Europe to over €3bn, emphasizing Europe’s global leadership in AI science.

Fostering a Collaborative European AI Science Community

The RAISE pilot includes a Coordination and Support Action funded with €3m to promote cooperation among the European AI science community. Additionally, a new European Research Area (ERA) action will accelerate AI adoption in research and science across Member States.

Driving Sustainable Impact through a Phased Approach

RAISE will evolve in phases to align with rapid innovation and changing needs. Post-pilot, collaboration with Member States, research institutions, universities, and the private sector will expand the institute under the next EU budget cycle.

Ekaterina Zaharieva, Commissioner for Startups, Research, and Innovation, highlighted RAISE’s role in promoting scientific excellence and addressing critical challenges through AI models applied across various disciplines.

Transforming the Landscape of European AI Science

RAISE signifies Europe’s commitment to advancing scientific research by integrating AI with fundamental principles. This initiative heralds a new era where AI drives breakthroughs, enhances knowledge, and solidifies Europe’s position as a global innovation hub.