Artificial intelligence as an opportunity
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Project Group was established in 2026 as an R&D project to make the most of the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence for research in subatomic physics at Nikhef.
Why AI in particle physics?
Research in subatomic physics focuses on deriving the laws of nature and discovering new phenomena through particle experiments using detectors, which generate enormous amounts of measurement data. Computer algorithms have long been used to identify and characterise relevant particle tracks within large datasets. Artificial intelligence and machine learning now also offer extensive possibilities for this type of pattern recognition. The use of modern and rapidly evolving AI techniques thus makes the collection and analysis of relevant research data more effective, including in particle physics. In addition, AI also offers growing opportunities in the field of software coding for scientific research.
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What does the Nikhef AI project group do?
Nikhef’s AI group investigates the opportunities and risks of using AI in physics, explores new possibilities, and advises researchers and research programmes on the responsible use of new AI capabilities.
The group is not yet an independent Nikhef research programme, but it does aim to play a leading role in research into the use of AI in fundamental scientific research.
Upon its establishment, the group comprised four members and specialises in both computing and developments in the field of AI hardware. Nikhef has since joined the European artificial intelligence initiative SCIANCE, which coordinates and promotes the use of AI for broad scientific research.
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More information
The EU initiative SCIANCE (AI in science) is part of the European Commission’s RAISE program.
Learn more about the European Commission: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_2578
Leadership AI theme group
Wouter Verkerke
