In March 2020, new research-led university, the Schaffhausen Institute of Technology (SIT) held its latest event in a series of public SIT Insights in Technology Talks in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. The evening event brought together business leaders, academics and school students alike, through a series of insightful presentations and lively discussions on digitalisation opportunities.
Featuring leading speakers from technology, business and science, SIT’s Tech Talks examine cutting-edge topics that have real-world implications. With accessible content catering for all, SIT wants to encourage everyone to engage with the topics and understand the advances that will affect our daily lives.
The programme of presentations commenced with talks from Serguei Beloussov, SIT founder, chairman of the board and CEO of Acronis and Tshering Tobgay, Bhutanese politician, environmentalist and cultural advocate. The event also included a Q&A session, networking opportunities and a live video from Prof. Rino Rappuoli, an expert in vaccines and infectious diseases.
The evening event culminated with a much-anticipated talk from Markus Gross, vice president for global research at Walt Disney Studios, director of Disney Research Studios and professor of computer science at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zürich (ETH).
Having been at the forefront of scientific and technological innovation for more than a decade, Gross discussed the continual digitalisation of the entertainment industry. Disney Research Studios has conducted extensive research into a broad spectrum of entertainment fields including graphics, vision, augmented and virtual reality, machine learning, artificial intelligence and interactive technologies.
During his keynote speech, Gross gave an overview of Disney’s core research programmes including interactive content creation, video processing, story technology, digital humans and crucially, audience understanding. He also shared insight into the differences between academic and corporate research and how this turns technology into products.
“Traditionally there has been a lack of communication and collaboration between research groups operating in academia and industry,” explained Serguei Beloussov, SIT founder and chairman of the board. “At SIT we offer a unique state-of-the-art research and business hub environment where students work closely with organisations to turn innovative ideas into reality.
“If you want to find out more about the latest scientific research taking place, not only at our institution, but all over the world, attending one of our SIT Insights in Technology Talks will feed your curiosity.”