CV Tag: Robotics

Pierre Schumacher receives RIG “Outstanding Doctoral Thesis Award” at the German Robotics Conference 2026

Pierre Schumacher has been selected as one of the two recipients of the “RIG Outstanding Doctoral Thesis Award”, recognizing exceptional doctoral research in robotics in Germany. The award was officially announced during the “RIG Heroes Award Night 2026” at the German Robotics Conference 2026, organized by the Robotics Institute Germany (RIG), in Cologne on March 12.

Schumacher’s dissertation, “Reinforcement Learning for Muscle-Driven Systems,” was selected from 27 nominations submitted by 16 institutions across Germany. Following an extensive evaluation process, an international selection committee chose two equal awardees, citing Schumacher’s work for its “scientific depth, originality, and impact”.

Pierre Schumacher conducted his doctoral research at the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems in Tübingen under the supervision of Prof. Georg Martius (University of Tübingen) and Prof. Daniel Häufle (Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research) funded by the Cyber Valley Research grant “Learning effcient control of non-linear muscle-driven systems: Morphological computation as guiding principle”. His project was part of the Cluster of Excellence “Machine Learning: New Perspectives for Science” and the Center for Bionic Intelligence Tübingen Stuttgart (BITS). His dissertation, “Reinforcement Learning for Muscle-Driven Systems,” addresses challenges in controlling complex, highly overactuated robotic and biomechanical systems by developing new machine learning methods.

A central contribution of the work is the development of DEP-RL, a reinforcement learning approach that improves exploration and learning in systems with many redundant actuators, such as musculoskeletal models. Using this method, Schumacher demonstrated efficient learning for tasks involving complex simulated bodies, including a human model with dozens of muscles and animal-inspired locomotion systems.

Pierre’s research also explored how muscle-like actuation can improve learning performance and robustness in robotic systems. In collaborative studies, Schumacher and colleagues showed that musculoskeletal models can lead to more data-efficient and stable learning in anthropomorphic control tasks. More recent work demonstrated that reinforcement learning can produce natural and robust bipedal walking in musculoskeletal simulations without relying on motion-capture demonstrations.

Schumacher began his academic path with a trinational bachelor’s degree in physics that took him to universities in France, Luxembourg, and Germany. After completing his B.Sc. in physics in Saarbrücken 2017, he shifted toward computational approaches and pursued a master’s degree at Goethe University Frankfurt in Frankfurt am Main. In 2021, he joined the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems and the Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research in Tübingen with Prof. Georg Martius and Prof. Daniel Häufle for his PhD in Computer Science, which he completed in 2025.Schumacher’s expertise has also attracted industry attention: he joined MyoLab, a startup based in New York focusing on musculoskeletal control technologies, last year.

The RIG Outstanding Doctoral Thesis Award highlights emerging researchers whose doctoral work significantly advances robotics research in Germany. Schumacher’s selection underscores the growing importance of combining machine learning, biomechanics, and embodied intelligence to enable the next generation of adaptive robotic systems.

March 13, 2026
From perception to constrained decisions

Georg Martius’ project, “Embedding combinatorial reasoning into learning control policies” addressed a practical gap in AI’s basic machinery: connecting data-driven neural networks with decision-making so they can adhere to clear structures, rules, and constraints. The project developed foundations for integrating combinatorial optimization into learning systems. It has potential applications wherever planning and resource allocation are central, such as in robotics and logistics. The project was funded by the Cyber Valley Research Fund and was carried out between 2021 and 2024.

Martius’ project addressed a key limitation of today’s machine-learning systems. While neural networks can learn powerful representations from data (for example, from images or sensor signals), many real-world decisions must also follow strict rules, such as budgets, capacities, safety limits, or “must/ must not” constraints. These rule-based decisions are often handled by specialized optimization software, but such tools are traditionally difficult to integrate into learning-based systems.

Martius’ research created methods that make it easier to combine neural networks with combinatorial optimization components. This enables systems to learn from data while also drawing on proven optimization techniques to make decisions that respect constraints. Rather than replacing classical solvers, the project developed ways to use them as trainable building blocks inside larger learning pipelines.

The project also explored “neuro-algorithmic” approaches to decision-making and control, investigating how structured algorithms can improve generalization to new problems compared with purely data-driven approaches.

Overall, the project provides a foundation for building AI systems that connect perception with constraint-aware decision modules. This is an important step toward robust solutions in areas such as robotics, planning, logistics, and resource allocation.

This project produced the following peer-reviewed publications:

Anselm Paulus, Michal Rolínek, Vít Musil, Brandon Amos, and Georg Martius. “CombOptNet: Fit the Right NP-Hard Problem by Learning Integer Programming Constraints”. In: Proceedings of the 38th International Conference on Machine Learning. Vol. 139. Proceedings of Machine Learning Research. PMLR, July 2021, pp. 8443–8453. url: https://proceedings.mlr.press/v139/paulus21a.html.

Marin Vlastelica, Michal Rolinek, and Georg Martius. “Neuro-algorithmic Policies Enable Fast Combinatorial Generalization”. In: Proceedings of the 2021 International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML). July 2021. url: https://proceedings.mlr.press/v139/vlastelica21a.html.

Marco Bagatella, Mirek Olšák, Michal Rolínek, and Georg Martius. “Planning from Pixels in Environments with Combinatorially Hard Search Spaces”. In: Advances in Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2021). 2021. url: https://openreview.net/forum?id=XgGUUaKgips.

Subham Sahoo, Anselm Paulus, Marin Vlastelica, Vít Musil, Volodymyr Kuleshov, and Georg Martius. “Backpropagation through Combinatorial Algorithms: Identity with Projection Works”. In: Proceedings of the Eleventh International Conference on Learning Representations. May 2023. url: https://openreview.net/forum?id=JZMR727O29.

A. Paulus, G. Martius, and V. Musil. “LPGD: A General Framework for Backpropagation through Embedded Optimization Layers”. In: Proceedings of the 41st International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML). Vol. 235. Proceedings of Machine Learning Research. PMLR, July 2024, pp. 39989–40014. url: https://proceedings.mlr.press/v235/paulus24a.html.

Georg Martius is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Tübingen.

About the Cyber Valley Research Fund

The Cyber Valley Research Fund was established to support Cyber Valley research groups undertake basic research in the fields of artificial intelligence and robotics. The fund totaled five million euros, including contributions from six of Cyber Valley’s founding corporate partners: Amazon, BMW, Bosch, IAV, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and ZF. It supported 20 research projects, the first of which began in 2020, and the final of which will conclude in 2026.

March 9, 2026
Cyber Valley Impulse on Mobility and Aerospace
Join us for the first event of our new series “Cyber Valley Impulse”. It is dedicated to the role of AI in shaping the future of mobility and aerospace. This event brings together leading scientists, innovative start-ups, corporates, and investors who will share their research, success stories, and AI-driven breakthroughs.

As part of the Cyber Valley Impulse event series, this edition focuses on the application of intelligent systems in mobility and aerospace. These sectors are rapidly evolving through advances in artificial intelligence, robotics, and data-driven technologies, creating new opportunities and challenges across reseach and industry.

A highlight of the event is our research marketplace, an open space to explore emerging AI projects, exchange insights, and connect with entrepreneurs and potential collaborators from academia and industry.

Program

15:00: Registration and Check-in

15:30: Cyber Valley Impulse Welcome

15:40: Get-Together Circles

16:30: Science Impulses
- “Vision-based perception and autonomous control of aerial robots” by Aamir Ahmad, Institute of Flight Mechanics and Controls, University of Stuttgart
- “ICM – Research and funding opportunities in manufacturing systems & mobility technologies” by Thilo Zimmermann, InnovationCampus Future Mobility (ICM)
- “Usage of AI in aerospace systems” by Zamira Daw Perez, Institute of Aircraft Systems, University of Stuttgart
- “Automated driving” by Ulrike Weinrich, Electronics & Mobility, FKFS Research Institute for Automotive Engineering and Powertrain Systems Stuttgart
17:15: Break

17:30: Start-up Impulses
- Anand Waghmare, Yugen Space
- Frederik Boenke, NUVUS
17:50: Q&A

18:15: Science Marketplace and Networking
March 9, 2026
Funded Doctoral Positions at the International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems (IMPRS-IS)
The school is a key element of to accelerate basic research and commercial development in artificial intelligence and robotics. IMPRS-IS seeks students who want to earn a doctorate while contributing to world-leading research in areas such as:
• Artificial Intelligence
• Biomedical Technology
• Computational Cognitive Science
• Computer Vision and Graphics
• Control Systems and Optimization
• Data Science and Visualization
• Haptics and Human-Computer Interaction
• Machine Learning
• Micro- and Nano-Robotics
• Natural Language Processing
• Neuroscience
• Perceptual Inference
• Robotics and Human-Robot Interaction
• Soft Robotics and Materials
Renowned faculty include Sahar Abdelnabi, Rediet Abebe, Amirreza Aghakhani, Aamir Ahmad, Buse Aktaş, Frank Allgöwer, Maksym Andriushchenko, Kai Arras, Robert Bamler, Philipp Berens, Matthias Bethge, Michael J. Black, Wieland Brendel, Andrés Bruhn, Andreas Bulling, Martin Butz, Manfred Claassen, Maximilian Dax, Katharina Eggensperger, Benedikt Ehinger, Carsten Eickhoff, Andreas Geiger, Jonas Geiping, Antonia Georgopoulou, Martin A. Giese, Thilo Hagendorff, Moritz Hardt, Florian Hartmann, Daniel Häufle, Matthias Hein, Philipp Hennig, Niels Henze, Christian Holm, Andrea Iannelli, Christoph Keplinger, Mario Krenn, Katherine J. Kuchenbecker, Hilde Kuehne, Anja Lauer, Hendrik Lensch, Anna Levina, Shiwei Liu, Nicole Ludwig, Sabine Ludwigs, Jakob Macke, Georg Martius, Kristof Meding, Celestine Mendler-Dünner, Michael Mühlebach, Philipp Müller, Sven Nahnsen, Mathias Niepert, Seong Joon Oh, Antonio Orvieto, Aniket Pal, Nico Pfeifer, Gerard Pons-Moll, Michael Pradel, C. David Remy, Kerstin Ritter, Philipp Rothemund, Konstantin Rusch, Renate Sachse, Samira Samadi, Harry Scells, Dieter Schmalstieg, Syn Schmitt, Bernhard Schölkopf, Sabine Schulte im Walde, Janneke Schwaner, Michael Sedlmair, Thomas Speck, Steffen Staab, Ingo Steinwart, Alexander Verl, Claire Vernade, Ulrike von Luxburg, Daniel Weiskopf, Felix Wichmann, Bob Williamson, Andreas Wortmann, Thomas Wortmann, and Charley Wu.
Associated faculty include R. Harald Baayen, Franz Baumdicker, Peter Dayan, Jonathan Fiene, Volker Franz, Ksenia Keplinger, Miriam Klopotek, Kay Nieselt, Senya Polikovsky, Peter Pott, Gunther Richter, Cornelia Sindermann, Maria Wirzberger, Isabell Wochner, and Thomas Wolfers.
About the program:
Intelligent systems that can successfully perceive, act, and learn in complex environments hold great potential for aiding society. The school seeks doctoral students who are curious, creative, and passionate about research to join and help advance human knowledge about intelligent systems.
- Admitted students can join the program starting in 2026.
- You will be mentored by an internationally renowned faculty.
- You will register as a university doctoral student and conduct research.
- IMPRS-IS offers a wide variety of scientific seminars, workshops, and social activities.
- All aspects of the program are in English.
- Your doctoral degree will be conferred when you successfully complete your doctoral project.
- Dedicated staff members will assist you throughout your time as a doctoral student.
IMPRS-IS is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, gender identity, or any other non-job-related criteria. They believe in the importance of a multicultural community of students, faculty, and staff who seek to advance our commitment to diversity and inclusion. IMPRS-IS strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.
Admission will be competitive. If selected, you will receive funding via an employment contract, subject to the rules of the Max Planck Society and the two participating universities.
Application deadline:
November 16, 2025 (End of Day, AoE)
Selection interviews:
February 5–13, 2026
Apply now:
https://imprs.is.mpg.de/application
For more information, please visit https://imprs.is.mpg.de.
October 14, 2025
Stuttgart to become Europe’s hot spot for AI and robotics in March
After 15 years of existence, the European Robotics Forum (ERF) is coming to Germany for the first time. In the last week of March, the European robotics community will meet for its flagship event in the Liederhalle in the heart of Stuttgart. Consistent with the lines of this year's theme, “Boosting the Synergies between Robotics and AI for a stronger Europe”, the aim is to bring research and industry together, to present the current state of robotics and AI on a large stage, and to help shape future technological developments.

Target-group-specific industry programs and inspiring keynotes
The ERF combines numerous event formats, making it unique in the European robotics community. Keynotes, workshops, and several side events such as B2B matchmaking comprise a large part of the wide-ranging program. For example, participants can choose from more than 50 workshops, which are also summarized in industry-specific program recommendations:
- Advanced industrial robotics and humanoids
- Safety, security, and privacy of cobots
- Industrial and service robots
- AI and data solutions for robotics
- Sustainability, like disassembly or automation in agriculture
- Robots in healthcare and pharma
- Strateg policy of robotics in Europe
- Start-ups and entrepreneurships in Robotics
Several euRobotics Awards will be presented, an exhibition in the style of a trade fair will complement the program, and there will be on-site visits to the regional robotics ecosystem.
Each day, the program will begin with a keynote speech by a high-profile representative:
- March 25, 10:00 am: Jörg Burzer, Mercedes-Benz AG: “Transformation in Production: Pioneering technologies for sustainable automotive production of the future”
- March 26, 10:00 am: Dieter Fox, Nvidia: “Where is RobotGPT?”
- March 27, 10:00 am: Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism Baden-Württemberg: “AI-Driven Robotics from Baden-Württemberg: Pioneering the Future of European Industry” and David Reger, Neura Robotics: “Cognitive Robotics – A New Economic Engine for the Entire EU”
All details about the program can be found here: https://erf2025.eu/programme/.

University of Stuttgart and Fraunhofer present intelligent robots for industry

As one of the ERF partners, the University of Stuttgart is playing a major role in shaping the event. “We are bringing robotics and artificial intelligence together in a wide range of research and application fields: interdisciplinary teams at the University of Stuttgart are working on this together with highly capable partners,” explains Rector Prof. Peter Middendorf. “Our goal is to contribute to solving the pressing challenges facing our society through excellent research and rapid transfer. The European Robotics Forum offers us a great opportunity to present and discuss new knowledge and new technologies.” Among other things, the ERF exhibition showcases the RoboCable project by the partners University of Stuttgart, Fraunhofer IPA and Innovationscampus Mobilität, as well as a bin-packing application with over 1300 grips of unknown objects per hour.

In this context, the University of Stuttgart is offering a look behind the scenes of robotics research at ERF. How can algorithms, simulation, and digital twins make industrial robots even more intelligent and precise for a wide range of applications? During tours of the Institute for Control Engineering of Machine Tools and Manufacturing Units (ISW), visitors can see, among other things, “cable robots” with potential applications in logistics, milling robots for metal and wood processing, digital twins in software-defined production and robots for the automotive industry that automatically assemble cables. The team will also explain how robots can work professionally in automotive production in the scientific track of ERF 2025, and ISW spin-off Sereact will be present in the exhibition area with AI-based software for department store robots.

Another guided tour will take ERF guests from the Liederhalle to the ARENA2036 research campus and Fraunhofer IPA. Insights will be provided into the AI-Matters project's test and experimentation facility for AI-based robots, which is currently being built up, and into the recently launched project RoX by its partner Mercedes-Benz. Further highlights include, for example, cognitive automation solutions for the circular economy and for medium-sized welding companies.

Free public engagement event for all interested parties
On March 24, the exhibition in the Liederhalle will be open to all interested parties free of charge. In addition, the event partners Cyber Valley and the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO are organizing the afternoon in the spirit of public engagement. With the motto “Living and working with robots: Experience. Understand. Shape.”, interested citizens can take part in a three-hour program free of charge, without any previous knowledge of robotics. This includes not only an interactive tour of the exhibition, but also the ‘KI Infomobile’ from the ‘KI Studios’ project funded by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, which brings artificial intelligence to life with various demo applications on site.

Subsequent parallel workshops are targeted at four groups – schools, companies and research, citizens, and employees – to develop ideas for future collaboration with robots. The event will conclude with a panel discussion in which experts from politics, business, and research will discuss future prospects for living and working with robots.

“Each and every one of us will come into contact with robots in the future, at work, at home, or both,” explains Rebecca C. Reisch, Managing Director of Cyber Valley GmbH and General Co-Chair of Public Engagement Artificial Intelligence at ERF. “Engaging with society on this important topic is therefore very important to us to highlight its potential and reduce fears of contact,” says Reisch. Matthias Peissner, Head of Human-Technology Interaction Research Unit and General Co-Chair “Future of Work”, adds: “Intelligent robotics can achieve many positive things – especially in the world of work. Technology development must not be limited to simulating human capabilities. Sustainable innovation arises when new things are made possible and people are empowered. Our public engagement aims to initiate a dialog about desirable future work with robotics.”

Registration and further information is available at: https://erf2025.eu/public-engagement/.

Region Stuttgart is strongly positioned with robotics and AI
euRobotics, the European robotics association, organizes the event together with the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA as a scientific cooperation partner and an event agency. Other cooperation partners include Cyber Valley GmbH (Europe's center of excellence in AI and modern robotics), the University of Stuttgart, Fraunhofer IAO, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism of the State of Baden-Württemberg. On Thursday, Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Minister of Economic Affairs, will also be present. “We warmly welcome Europe's leading robotics experts to the ERF 2025 in Stuttgart. Baden-Württemberg's industrial success thrives on innovations in the field of robotics. ERF is the ideal platform to showcase our expertise in modern robotics,” said Hoffmeister-Kraut.

The City of Stuttgart also supports ERF. Lord Mayor Frank Nopper will give the welcoming address at the evening reception offered by the City on March 24. “It is a unique opportunity for Stuttgart to host the European Robotics Forum 2025,” he explains. “As a hotspot for robotics and artificial intelligence, Stuttgart is proud to contribute to the further development of the field. I look forward to welcoming ERF in March 2025 for an inspiring exchange of ideas.”

Further support for the ERF is provided by the Stuttgart Region Economic Development Corporation, the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, and the patronage of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, represented by State Secretary Udo Philipp on the occasion of the opening. Other prominent guests at ERF include Prof. Holger Hanselka, President of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, and Lucilla Sioli, Director for “Artificial Intelligence and Digital Industry” in the Directorate-General CONNECT at the European Commission.

Information for press and media contacts
Representatives of the daily, weekly, and trade press are cordially invited to attend the entire ERF free of charge. Registration with appropriate proof is required. In addition to the program described, there will be a moderated press conference for media contacts at 13:15 on March 25. It will also be possible to join virtually. The General Chair of the event, Werner Kraus (Fraunhofer IPA), as well as the Co-Chairs Matthias Peissner (Fraunhofer IAO), Professor Alexander Verl and Professor Marco Huber (both University of Stuttgart), and Florian Mayer, Director Management & Science of Cyber Valley, will participate. Bernd Liepert will represent euRobotics as president of the association. The discussion will focus on the status and opportunities for Europe in relation to robotics and AI technologies, and each chair will be available to answer questions on their respective areas of focus.
- To prepare for your visit, a media kit is available at www.erf2025.eu/media.
- Please register if you plan to attend ERF in person or the virtual press conference at www.erf2025.eu/register.
Further information for interested parties, media representatives, potential sponsors, and exhibitors, as well as all program and registration details: www.erf2025.eu.

The regular ticket prices will be available until March 14th, 12 CET. After that, the late registration price will apply.
Event co-organisers and scientific partners
euRobotics:
euRobotics aisbl is a Brussels-based international non-profit association for all stakeholders in European robotics. It was founded in September 2012 to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and ensure industrial leadership of manufacturers, providers, and end-users of robotics technology-based systems and services. The objectives of euRobotics are to boost European robotics research, development, and innovation and to foster a positive perception of robotics. ERF, the most influential meeting of the robotics community in Europe, started in San Sebastian in 2010 and is an initiative of euRobotics in cooperation with a local co-host.
Fraunhofer IPA:
With around 1,200 employees, Fraunhofer IPA is one of the largest institutes in the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. The “Automation and Robotics” research division has been developing automation solutions, for example, for production and intralogistics, for over 50 years and has led numerous groundbreaking national and international research projects, focusing in particular on the transfer of research results relating to AI-based robotics into applications. Fraunhofer IPA is the scientific cooperation partner of ERF.
Fraunhofer IAO:
Digital technologies are changing our working world and have a profound impact on the economy and society. Long-established methods and processes are being modernized and revolutionized by digitization in the shortest of time periods. The Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO works with companies, institutions and public-sector organizations to develop strategies, business models and solutions for the digital transformation. Fraunhofer IAO will contribute to ERF2025 with program items on topics of Future of Work.
University of Stuttgart:
The University of Stuttgart is a leading technically oriented university with a worldwide reputation. With its 22,000 students and approximately 5,500 employees, it pursues the vision of “intelligent systems for a sustainable society”. With its strong research profile, successful collaborative research, and two clusters of excellence, it is one of the most successful universities in Germany. Its special profile, the “Stuttgart Way”, stands for the consistent interdisciplinary networking of complementary subject areas and the integration of engineering, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. The Scientific Track, i.e. the scientific part of the program, is organized by the University of Stuttgart and Fraunhofer IPA.
Cyber Valley GmbH:
Cyber Valley is Europe’s largest and leading center for excellence in artificial intelligence and modern robotics. Its mission and public mandate are to advocate for research, development, application, and acceptance of technologies and methods in the field of intelligent systems. Cyber Valley encourages entrepreneurship by uniting scientific excellence with innovation and technology transfer. In addition, Cyber Valley facilitates critical reflection on the ethical and social implications of AI through public engagement. Cyber Valley envisions a future in which the full potential of intelligent systems is leveraged for the greater good of the world. As a cooperation partner, Cyber Valley is contributing to public engagement at ERF.
Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor and Tourism Baden-Württemberg:
Baden-Württemberg has a strong economy: high growth, skilled workforce, innovative power, low unemployment, and high exports. Economic policy aims to maintain and expand this leading position, based on a sustainable social market economy, free market access, and fair competition. Baden-Württemberg is one of the largest industrial locations in Germany and one of the most innovative regions in Europe and worldwide. In order to maintain this position, intelligent specialization in digitization, AI, Industry 4.0, mobility, health, and sustainability is the focus. The Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor, and Tourism is an event partner of the ERF.
State capital Stuttgart:
Stuttgart is an important center of science. The city is the scientific centre of Baden-Württemberg with a high density of scientific institutions. According to the State Statistical Office, 45 percent of the state's research and development capacity is concentrated in Stuttgart, making it one of the strongest research locations in Germany. The city is the only city in Baden-Württemberg with two universities, in addition to five public colleges and a large number of private universities. With around 59,000 students, Stuttgart is the largest student city in Baden-Württemberg. In addition, numerous research-based companies contribute to Stuttgart's scientific strength and form an essential basis for the city's prosperity. The city is sponsoring the VIP reception on March 24 where the Lord Mayor Frank Nopper will hold an opening speech to the participants.
March 10, 2025
Engaging the Public in Robotics and AI at ERF
A special Public Engagement program will take place the day before the forum’s opening, targeted towards schools, companies and research, citizens, and employees. On Monday, March 24th, members of the public can experience an interactive tour through the ERF exhibition and AI demos from the KI-Studios project at the AI Infomobile.
The program continues with four parallel workshops themed 'Living and Working with Robots: Experience. Understand. Shape.' Using the OpenSpace Method, participants will delve into critical questions about our future with robots while exploring the latest advancements in robotics and AI.
The workshops will consider the following questions:
- How and what will we need to learn for a future with robots?
- How can we increase our competitiveness with robotics?
- How do we want to live with robots?
- How do we want to work and collaborate with robots?
The day concludes with a panel discussion on "Live and work with robots – shaping our future," moderated by Dr. Matthias Peissner, Head of Human-Technology Interaction Research Unit and Co-Chair “Future of Work”. Esteemed panellists will share their insights on the societal and economic impacts of robotics.
This program will take place in German on March 24th from 2–5 pm. Interested members of the public can find more information and register for free directly on the ERF Public Engagement page. The program is organized in cooperation between Cyber Valley and Fraunhofer IPA, and supported by KI Studios, KI Fortschrittszentrum, the University of Stuttgart, and the Bundesministerium für Arbeit und Soziale.
About European Robotics Forum
The European Robotics Forum is a premier event on robotics and AI, supported by Cyber Valley, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, the Fraunhofer Institutes IPA and IAO, and the University of Stuttgart. With more than 60 sponsors and an extensive program, ERF 2025 promises to be a landmark event for the robotics community.
Join an exciting and insightful event that explores the future of robotics and AI!
March 3, 2025
Cyber Valley Meet-up April 2025
What?

17:00–17:15: Arrival & Networking

17:15–17:20: Opening Remarks

17:20–17:30: AI & Robotics Start-up Spotlight
- Dr Martin Kiefel (CEO Polybot) – New Robotics Meets Agriculture: How Polybot Tackles an Unsolved Problem
17:30–17:40: Ethical and Societal Dimensions
- Prof Dr Dr Ulrich Hemel (former Director of Weltethos Institut) – How can AI founders ensure ethical AI development while scaling their ventures?
17:40–18:00: Open Discussion with Q&A
- Open discussion with the speakers on challenges & opportunities for AI & robotics start-ups.
18:00–18:10: Closing Remarks & AI Incubator Introduction

18:10–19:30: Networking & Drinks
- Connect with founders, researchers, and the Cyber Valley Community
When?

Thursday, April 24, 17:00–19:30

Where?

Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems
Max-Planck-Ring 4
72076 Tübingen
In the lounge

Registration

As spaces are limited, please register in advance via Eventbrite.

We look forward to meeting you and sharing some food, drinks, and stimulating conversations!
February 27, 2025
Cyber Valley Meet-up March 2025 at the European Robotics Forum
Themed “Living and Working with Robots: Experience. Understand. Shape”, this special event offers a unique opportunity to connect with experts, experience cutting-edge technologies and discuss the role of robotics in our society.

What?
- 14:00 – 14:15:Welcome by Matthias Peissner and Janis-Anne Fischer
- 14:15 – 15:00:“Experience Robotics” – Guided tour of the ERF exhibition & interactive AI demonstrations
- 15:00 – 16:00:“Understand Robotics” – Four parallel workshops on education, competitiveness, coexistence, and collaboration with robots
- 16:00 – 17:00:“Shape Robotics” – Panel discussion on “Living and Working with Robots – Shaping Our Future”
When?

Monday, March 24th, 14:00 – 17:00 CEST

Where?

Liederhalle, Stuttgart

Registration:

This event is free and completely open to the public. Please register via the ERF portal.

Join us and help shape the future of robotics!
February 17, 2025
German premiere for European Robotics Forum

For the first time in its 15 years, ERF is coming to Germany. In spring 2025, the European robotics community will meet at its flagship event in the Liederhalle, located in the heart of Stuttgart. ERF is the most important European event for robotics and AI and this year’s theme is “Boosting the Synergies between Robotics and AI for a stronger Europe”. The aim is to bring together research and industry, present the current state of robotics and AI on a large stage, and help shape future technological developments.

Bind research and industry together

“The increasing integration of robotics with artificial intelligence, cognitive systems, and machine learning holds tremendous potential for our economy and society. It is crucial for Germany and Europe to not only use these technologies but also to develop them. This is the only way we can actively set standards and secure a leading position in international competition,” says Prof. Holger Hanselka, President of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. “The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is making an important contribution by advancing these technologies while also supporting companies and SMEs in fully exploiting the potential of service and industrial robotics. I am delighted that we are supporting the European Robotics Forum as a research partner.”

euRobotics, the European Robotics Association, in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA as its scientific partner and an event agency, are responsible for organizing the event. The President of euRobotics Dr. Bernd Liepert says: “ERF has been part of our story since euRobotics was founded in 2010, even two years before the euRobotics association was formally founded. Since then it has become part of the glue that binds research and industry together so well. As the robotics association for the whole European continent we always take an international perspective. At the same time, after 15 years in which ERF has taken place in countries right across Europe, as a Bavarian, I’m personally delighted that this year we will be in Germany! I wish the organisers every success during the lead-up and the delivery of ERF in Stuttgart.”

Werner Kraus, Head of Fraunhofer IPA’s Automation and Robotics research division, is the general chair of the event. He is particularly pleased about bringing ERF to Stuttgart in the “Year of Robotics”, as it has already been proclaimed in the press, and to use it as a platform and catalyst for new innovations: “In the context of demographic change, robotics is seen as the technology for securing prosperity. With its strong robotics ecosystem of users and suppliers of AI robotics solutions, Baden-Württemberg is helping to shape this future. More than ever, new ideas are needed, as the ERF will provide. I am very grateful for the wide-ranging support, because it is only with this that such a large event is possible.”

One event, many formats

ERF features a diverse range of event formats and is therefore unique in the European robotics community. Keynotes, lectures, and workshops make up a large part of the very diverse program. For example, attendees can select between more than 50 workshops with topics like application trends in industrial and service robotics, generative AI in robot programming and control, regulatory AI Act or humanoid robots.

In addition, individuals and companies can apply for several euRobotics awards, which will be presented during ERF. These include the Tech Transfer Award for outstanding success in transferring research results into business applications, the Renaud Champion Entrepreneurship Award, which is given to the most promising robotic start-up idea, and the Georges Giralt PhD Award for the best doctoral thesis in the field of robotics in Europe. An exhibition of robot and AI-based applications, presented in the style of a trade fair, complements the program. Networking and professional exchange also play a major role – which include two evening events and site visits to the regional robotic ecosystem.

Public Engagement and Scientific Track

For the first time, free program items in the weeks leading up to and during the ERF are planned, which, in the spirit of “public engagement”, shall address interested parties from all areas of society, to inform and start an exchange about robotics and AI. As a cooperation partner, Cyber Valley is contributing this part of the program to the event.

The “Scientific Track”, i.e. the scientific part of the program organized by the University of Stuttgart and Fraunhofer IPA, is being held for the second time. Its premiere at 2024 ERF in Rimini was very successful. The Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO will contribute with program items on the topic of “Future of Work”. ERF will also provide a platform for major national and international initiatives such as the Robotics Institute Germany, RoX – Digital Ecosystem for AI-based Robotics, and the ROS Industrial Consortium for open-source software.

Great appeal for European robotics

The event will have a major impact on European robotics. The fact that it is being held in Germany for the first time is a perfect fit, as it is the country with the highest number of euRobotics members and the highest robot density in Europe, with 429 robots per 10,000 employees. This puts Germany in fourth place worldwide, with South Korea in first place with 1012 robots, according to an annual survey by the International Federation of Robotics.

AI-based robotics is also an important strategic cornerstone of German and European economic and science policy to tackle social challenges such as demographic change and labour shortages. Important impetus for this will also come from the conference “AI-based Robotics 2025” (KIRO), which will be integrated into ERF and is carried out by the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs (BMWK) and of Education and Research (BMBF).

Many well-known guests

In this context, numerous well-known guests lend ERF additional significance. The current Federal Minister of Economic Affairs, Robert Habeck, is announced for the official opening on March 25, 2025. Professor Holger Hanselka, President of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, will also be part of the official opening of ERF. Contributions by Baden-Württemberg’s Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism, Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, and by Lucilla Sioli, Director for AI and Digital Industry at the European Commission, are further official items on the program. The local Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism is a co-organizer of the ERF 2025. Finally, the state capital Stuttgart, and the Stuttgart Region Economic Development Corporation are also supporting the ERF. Stuttgart’s Lord Mayor Dr. Frank Nopper will be giving a welcome speech at the pre-Forum reception on March 24th that will be hosted by the City of Stuttgart.

Press conference and panel discussion

Following the opening on March 25, a press conference and panel discussion about Europe’s status and possibilities with respect to robotics and AI technologies is planned, which is aimed in particular at media representatives. The General Chair of the event, Dr. Werner Kraus from Fraunhofer IPA, as well as the Co-Chairs Dr. Matthias Peissner (Fraunhofer IAO), Professor Alexander Verl and Professor Marco Huber (both from the University of Stuttgart) and Rebecca C. Reisch (Managing Director of Cyber Valley GmbH) will also take part. From euRobotics, Dr. Bernd Liepert, President euRobotics, will join. Journalists from the daily, weekly and trade press can register free of charge for ERF.

Further information for interested parties, media representatives, potential sponsors, and exhibitors, as well as all program and registration details: www.erf2025.eu

Event co-organisers:

Cyber Valley

euRobotics

Fraunhofer Gesellschaft

Fraunhofer IPA

Fraunhofer IAO

University of Stuttgart

January 15, 2025
Cyber Valley unites AI and robotics expertise for the healthcare sector

Stuttgart, October 28, 2024 – The Cyber Valley Health Cluster officially launched last Thursday with a public kickoff event in Tübingen. This initiative launched by Cyber Valley aims to unite the forces of science, industry, and start-ups to improve people’s long-term health through artificial intelligence and modern robotics.
Collaboration between research and industry for AI-driven health technologies
The Cyber Valley Health Cluster aims to integrate research, practice, and technology. It promotes joint projects between AI experts, scientists, and companies to develop innovative solutions for current and future challenges in the healthcare sector. The Health Cluster emphasizes interdisciplinary knowledge exchange, enabling new approaches and solutions that go beyond individual technological advances.
Rebecca C. Reisch, Managing Director of Cyber Valley GmbH, highlights the importance of this collaboration: “The Cyber Valley Health Cluster is more than an academic endeavor; it’s a collaborative alliance that encourages exchange between industry, start-ups, and research. The Health Cluster is where AI-based solutions can be developed to address the most pressing challenges in modern medicine and beyond.”
Strong Cyber Valley Partners and Friends are already on board
The Cyber Valley Health Cluster is backed by strong partnerships. Among the already confirmed Cyber Valley Partners are well-known players such as Boehringer Ingelheim, ZEISS, the University of Tübingen, the University of Stuttgart, and the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS). These partners are investing significantly in the Cyber Valley Community and are playing a central role in the further development of the Health Cluster.
In addition, the Cyber Valley Health Cluster is supported by numerous committed Cyber Valley Friends who enrich the network with their expertise and connections. These include Immatics, Cegat, Ovesco, BIOPRO Baden-Württemberg, BioRegio STERN Management, as well as the Medical Innovations Incubator, and the start-ups Osora and Cerebri. Further candidates are already under consideration.
Reisch emphasizes the role of the Cyber Valley Community: “Together with our Partners and Friends, we are creating an environment that drives the development of technologies that are not only groundbreaking but also practical and ethical. Because only by working together do we have the chance to establish Baden-Württemberg and the whole of Germany at the forefront of global AI health innovations.”
Long-term goal: a lasting healthcare alliance
The Cyber Valley Health Cluster supports start-ups and innovation projects to create real value by generating new jobs and health solutions. Health Cluster participants moreover benefit from extensive connections and new networking opportunities that enable the development of pioneering healthcare solutions and rapid knowledge transfer between research and industry.
The long-term goal of the Cyber Valley Health Cluster is to create a lasting and active community, pooling health expertise to enable interdisciplinary teams to tackle global health challenges. Further events and interaction formats are planned for the Cyber Valley Health Cluster in the coming months.
About Cyber Valley
Cyber Valley is Europe’s largest and leading center for excellence in artificial intelligence and modern robotics. Its mission and public mandate are to advocate for the research, development, application, and acceptance of technologies and methods in the field of intelligent systems. Cyber Valley encourages entrepreneurship by uniting scientific excellence with innovation and technology transfer. In addition, Cyber Valley facilitates critical reflection on the ethical and social implications of AI through public engagement. Cyber Valley envisions a future in which the full potential of intelligent systems is leveraged for the greater good of the world.
Media Contact:
Laura Neusser
Public Outreach Manager
Cyber Valley GmbH
laura.neusser@cyber-valley.de

October 28, 2024