Three early career researchers from South Korea are joining academics from Birmingham City University to drive next-generation urban innovation
They will work on a urban innovation project titled ‘Making Cities Smarter and Healthier through Artificial Intelligece, Data Science and Digital Transformation’.
“AI is accelerating, and so must we,” said Dr Muhammad Afzal, project director and associate professor in computer science.
“This is our moment to build cities that are smarter, healthier and more human-centred.”
Supporting research and innovation with the UK on a global scale
BCU’s three South Korean fellowships are being supported by British Council’s Early Career Fellowships in Research and Innovation Programme, under the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF).
The ISPF, which is managed by the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology, puts research and innovation at the heart of UK international relationships.
The three South Korean Fellows are:
- Dr Kyounghee Cho: After receiving her PhD from the University of Warwick, she is looking to develop responsible and inclusive digital governance frameworks as part of the UK-South Korea collaboration goals.
- Dr Chulwoong Park: A graduate from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology, he has an interest in using AI for urban planning and management.
- Dr Yeunsoo Park: Returning to Birmingham after getting his PhD from University of Birmingham, he wants to use data to create environmental and health justice indexes for the city.
“Working on an international scale is a priority for BCU, and our ISPF partnership with South Korea reflects this commitment,” said co-director Dr Mohammad Mayouf, associate professor in built environment.
“By collaborating with a global leader in AI, digital transformation and smart cities, we’re strengthening our research capability.
“We’re also driving meaningful impact for both South Korea and the UK by welcoming some outstanding post-doctoral talent to drive innovation.”
Professor Hanifa Shah, pro vice-chancellor for research, enterprise, external engagement and STEAM, said: “Working with partners in South Korea and the British Council is establishing BCU as a world-leading institution for research and innovation.
“From automated congestion trackers to motion-activated street lighting, BCU will be developing new technology that has an impact on daily life in cities across the world.”
Martin Weston, head of incubation and venture capital at BCU, added: “The agreement will deepen economic cooperation through climate, AI and technology initiatives.
“Projects like ISPF embody this agreement through enabling research collaborations and underpinning a global strategic partnership.”
