Kistas community inspirerar fler unga till en framtid inom teknik och vetenskap
Under Järvaveckan samlade vi Kistas community för att inspirera fler unga att välja en karriär inom tech och banbrytande teknologier. Köerna ringlade sig till Kistas tält där nyfikna kunde prova på VR-glasögon, regnbågsexperiment och att koda tillsammans med Kodcentrum.
Järva är framtiden – i dubbel bemärkelse. Här hittar du den största andelen unga i Stockholmsområdet, och här bygger vi transformativ teknologi för en hållbar framtid. Därför handlade de flesta diskussionerna och samtalen om vilka karriärsval, studier eller jobb som faktiskt finns att välja på – och hur man närmar sig dem steg för steg.
Vi behöver intressera fler unga till en framtid inom teknik och vetenskap.
En del av det arbetet kan göras genom att koppla samman aktörerna i Kista för att inspirera Järvas unga. Vi gör det tillsammans i ett starkt community. Årets närvaro på Järvaveckan arrangerade vi tillsammans med Kodcentrum, KTH, Rookie Startups, IBM, Ericsson, Stockholms Universitet, Vetenskapens Hus, imagilabs och The Kloud som är Kistas samlade fastighetsbolag.
Flera politiker besökte oss. Särskilt det biträdande finansborgarrådet Anders Österberg och Lawen Redar hängde kvar, löste kodutmaningar och småpratade med arrangörer och besökare.
Ett stort tack till alla som hälsade på i tältet, och ett extra stort tack till alla partners som hjälpte till med allt från experiment till att diskutera drömmar och framtidsplaner.
Arbetet med att öka intresset för teknik och vetenskap genom att stärka och vidga relationen mellan Järva och Kistas näringsliv fortsätter. Vill du vara med? Hör av dig till Mikaela Färnqvist på Kista Science City.
AI and the state of democracy
On May 22, we gathered the Kista Science City community for a deeep dive in artificial intelligence and democracy. Moderated by Binette Seck, this event featured Dr. Heather Ashby, a former US Government Security and Foreign Affairs Specialist. Dr. Ashby shared her expertise on how emerging technologies are reshaping our political landscape and transforming democratic processes and political campaigning.
The impact of AI on elections
In 2024, more than half of the world’s population are heading to the polls. These elections are happening during a perfect storm of new AI tools becoming available. Dr. Ashby highlighted India’s election as an example, noting the unprecedented use of generative AI. This election offers a glimpse into the future of voting processes influenced by AI, with tools generating deep-fake videos, memes, and audio to manipulate public opinion on an never-before-sen scale. This situation creates massive challenges for maintaining fair and transparent elections, demanding attention from policymakers and tech developers alike.
Harnessing AI for positive change
Despite these challenges, AI technologies have the potential to strengthen electoral processes. Several countries are already using AI to enhance democratic engagement. For instance, AI-powered chatbots provide up-to-date information on voting, candidates, and the electoral procedures, helping voters make informed decisions and increasing overall participation in democratic processes. These developments are crucial in countering misinformation and ensuring accurate information reaches the public.
To fully realize the benefits of AI and integrate it responsibly into societies, Dr. Ashby highlighted several important steps:
- Education and empowerment: It is crucial to educate people on what AI is and what it isn’t to dispel myths and fears. Clear and accessible information can help the public understand AI’s capabilities and limitations.
- Transparency and accountability: Regulations like GDPR are vital for ensuring transparency in how AI systems operate. Transparency builds public trust and holds tech companies accountable for their actions.
- Training for officials: Elected officials need adequate training in technology to create effective legislation. Without proper knowledge, the legislative process can fall behind.
- Addressing underlying issues: Tackling challenges like economic disparity, lack of education, and social injustice helps create a stable foundation for the responsible use of AI.
Looking forward: AI and democratic potential
When asked what she looks forward to in the fields of AI and democracy, Dr. Ashby expressed optimism. “I look forward to people, and the power of people, and their ideas. When you get people together to brainstorm and create something different, that’s what gives me hope,” she said, emphasizing the value of collective creativity and collaborative spirit of individuals to drive positive change and innovation. By harnessing the diverse perspectives and talents within society, we can develop AI technologies that not only support democratic values but also enhance them.
The conversation with Dr. Ashby underscored the critical impact of AI on elections and democracy, highlighting both opportunities and challenges. As AI continues to evolve, fostering discussions that balance technological advancements with democratic values remains essential. Stay tuned for more events and insights on this crucial topic.
AI to detect toxic online communication
Using AI to detect toxic online communication
Safeguarding our communities relies increasingly on our capacity to monitor and interpret the vast data streams across social networks. Lisa Kaati, a docent at Stockholm University, stands out as one of the leaders in this domain. Her work involves identifying patterns of toxic online communication to preempt acts of violence and enhance public safety.
Kaati’s methodology combines sophisticated data science techniques with sharp analytical thinking to uncover complex behavioral patterns that often go unnoticed. Using AI, she filters through enormous datasets to pinpoint potential threats—a task nearly impossible for human analysts alone. However, Kaati emphasizes that AI is a tool to aid human analysts, not replace them. This balanced approach ensures that decisions about potential threats remain nuanced and considerate of complex human behaviors.
Practical impact and innovations
Kaati’s research yields tangible benefits, shaping protocols that may prevent crises. In response to the growing demand for practical solutions based on her research, Kaati co-founded the Mind Intelligence Lab. This initiative turns theoretical insights into practical tools that law enforcement and educational institutions use to identify and mitigate risks. Kaati’s work exemplifies the potential of AI in transforming security practices. Her research contributes significantly to the development of new strategies for managing public safety in urban environments.
Integrating her findings into practical applications showcases how theoretical research can lead to tangible improvements in community resilience.
Looking ahead
As digital communication evolves, the need for alert monitoring of online spaces becomes increasingly important. Researchers like Lisa Kaati are crucial in developing technologies that enhance societal safety. Their work addresses current challenges and anticipates future security needs, providing the actors in our ecosystem with the tools and knowledge needed to adapt and thrive in a changing digital landscape.
Newsletter
News from Kista Science City
Hello and welcome to our newsletter – your go-to source for updates from the Kista Science City community. From inspiring local activities to insights and initiatives that shape a sustainable tomorrow, we’ve got you covered.
This month, we’ll cover reflections and community highlights from MWC 2024, and explore the intersection of defense and innovation in Sweden, where the collaboration between the civil and defense sectors is enhancing national security. We also spotlight the development of digital twin technology, with ongoing projects from MIT, KTH, RISE, and the City of Stockholm. Initiatives driving change in urban planning and sustainability efforts.
Want to share your news or event? We’d love to hear from you!
Happy reading,
Kista Science City
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Mobile world congress 2024
Photo credit: Ericsson
Mobile World Congress
Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 has wrapped up. The annual world-leading event brings together industry leaders and innovators from across the globe to showcase the cutting edge of mobile technology. This year’s event was rich in innovations, demos, and discussions focusing on what’s on the horizon for mobile connectivity and its impact on our world.
Key takeaways:
5G and beyond: A hot topic of MWC 2024 was on the development and standardization of 6G technology. This included talks on how these advancements would impact various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. Ericsson and Sivers semiconductors were among the many Swedish companies showcasing their technologies and applications of 5G and their move towards 6G.
Artificial intelligence (AI): Artificial intelligence (AI) unsurprisingly remained a central theme at MWC 2024. From optimizing network performance to streamlining operations and personalizing user experiences, we can expect AI to play an increasingly crucial role in shaping the future of mobile technology. During MWC, Intel took to the stage to showcase their latest advancements in the field of AI, demonstrating how their technologies can modernize and help shape the future of network and edge computing.
Sustainability and inclusivity: Many companies demonstrated the potential of innovative technologies to foster more inclusive and sustainable communities worldwide. Ericsson is one of them, highlighting their efforts in driving positive change, ensuring broader access to technology, and moving towards sustainability within the tech sector.
Börje Ekholm, CEO at Ericsson comments, “What we see here is a convergence of trends. We see the AI, we see the cloud, and we see mobility converging. And as I see it, mobile connectivity will be the critical underpinning to scale Cloud and AI very fast. This will put demands on the networks. It will require ubiquitous coverage, high performance, flexible and programable networks.” He adds, “That’s a new era we’re entering, where 5G plays a big role because 5G has new features like speed, latency, quality of service, location. All of that will be used for enterprise digitalization. I think this is exciting.”
The insights from MWC 2024 paint a picture of a future where tech continues to push boundaries. As we move towards a more connected, intelligent, and inclusive world, the innovations showcased during MWC pave the way for an exciting technological journey ahead.
Digital twins and real-world impact
Digital twins & real-wold impact
In a world of rapid tech advancements, Kista’s tech ecosystem spearheads digital twin advancement, with numerous companies and research teams pushing technological boundaries and demonstrating real-world applications across urban development and environmental sustainability.
The mix of digital twin projects underscores the importance of collaboration in driving new tech advancements. Within this ecosystem, a multitude of local research initiatives, and market- and government-driven projects are interconnected through overlapping project and reference groups. Datasets are shared among these projects to enrich the digital twins with diverse perspectives, enhancing their utility and scope, and creating an innovative arena for idea exchange and discoveries. This collaborative environment not only accelerates technological progress but also strengthens Kista’s role in hosting and fostering transformative projects in this field.
The potential of digital twins
A digital twin is a dynamic replica of a physical entity or system, bridging the physical and virtual worlds through data and simulation. This enables businesses and researchers to understand complexities, predict future conditions, and make informed decisions in real time.
Digital twins are applied in areas like urban planning, infrastructure, healthcare and manufacturing, offering unique insights into system performance and environmental impact. Lucas Uhlén, project leader at Kista Science City, highlights the practical benefits of these technologies, saying: ”Just as a shared blueprint guides everyone from plumbers to electricians in a building project, digital twins achieve a similar unity. They bring cross-disciplinary teams onto the same page, ensuring projects evolve smoothly from concept to integration. This approach fosters a common understanding of a challenge and its dependencies, which is vital for aligning diverse expertise and streamlining the development and maintenance of complex solutions.”
Spotlight on digital twin projects
Kista is home to several initiatives that showcase the practical applications and benefits of digital twins. From enhancing urban planning to optimizing environmental sustainability, these projects represent the cutting edge of digital twin solutions:
Digital Vision Kista, a collaborative partnership including the City of Stockholm, KTH, Ericsson, RISE, and Kista Science City, is pioneering the development of a visual 3D model for the Kista area. By integrating data from building plans, environmental sensors, and traffic patterns, this digital twin visualizes traffic flows and infrastructural changes. It offers valuable insights for traffic management and building energy needs throughout various stages of construction and use. The project aims to transform IoT sensor data into actionable insights for municipalities, demonstrating a model for leveraging digital twins in sustainable urban development and aligning with Agenda 2030 objectives.
Project Gemini is a collaboration between MIT and KTH through the Senseable Stockholm Lab, focusing on the impact of traffic flows on emission levels. Through the integration of emission sensors and traffic data, the project seeks to understand and mitigate environmental impacts in urban settings. This initiative illustrates how local synergies and shared data platforms can significantly contribute to developing sustainable urban environments.
Digital Vision Sverige, led by RISE, is an initiative to advance digital twin development across Sweden’s urban planning sector. By integrating data from multiple sources, digital twins offer a comprehensive view of urban landscapes, facilitating better planning, decision-making, and collaboration. This initiative aims to foster a resilient society prepared to face climate change, green transitions, and future crises through informed, data-driven strategies.
Synergies and collaboration
As the exploration and expansion of digital twins continue, Kista emerges as a focal point for this technological progress. Recognized by municipalities, academia, and industry alike as a natural hub for innovation, Kista facilitates a collaborative environment for knowledge exchange and the development of testbeds. In doing so, it plays an important role in realizing the potential of digital twins for the benefit of society and people.
Do you want to know more about Kista’s platform for testing and development of digital twins? Reach out to Lucas Uhlén at Kista Science City.
Civil tech to power up defence
Civil tech to power up defence
With global security challenges on the rise, the integration of new technologies into the defense sector has become a priority for Sweden. Central to this initiative is the effort to bridge the gap between the civil sector’s technological solutions and the defense industry’s specific needs. Sweden’s rich ecosystem of startups and scaleups is increasingly recognized as crucial to strengthening Sweden’s framework as these companies offer groundbreaking innovations and fresh perspectives that help navigate the challenges of modern security threats.
Bridging civil and defence sectors
Shared visions and increased collaboration between the civil and defence sectors are key. There is a pressing need to close the gap that has been widening between these sectors, and actors across the spectrum call for a more integrated approach. The synergy of civil sector innovation and defence expertise safeguards national security.
A tradition of innovation
Sweden’s role as a pioneer in technological innovation is a strategic asset in its defence policy. As security concerns increase, we must ensure that Sweden remains at the forefront of defence technology, ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow. This includes investing in research and development, encouraging cross-sectoral knowledge exchange, and creating an environment where innovative ideas can flourish and be rapidly deployed.
The role of startups and scaleups
Startups and scaleups are essential partners in driving technological advancements in the defence sector. Their agility, innovative approaches, and groundbreaking technologies are critical for enhancing Sweden’s defence capabilities, making their involvement essential for the nation’s security framework. To boost this involvement, there is a need for supportive frameworks that facilitate these partnerships, including funding mechanisms, regulatory support, and platforms for collaboration.
Insights from the Swedish Minister for Defence
At a recent event on Defense and Innovation, Swedish Minister for Defence, Pål Jonson, stressed the critical need for innovative solutions amidst growing security challenges in Sweden and Europe. Jonson acknowledged the civil sector’s significant role and potential in enhancing Sweden’s defence through technology and innovation. He also emphasized the government’s desire for more coordinated efforts in innovation and for lowering the barriers for new companies to contribute to the defence sector.
The event brought together a mix of cutting-edge startups and scaleups, and decision-makers to explore the potential of civil sector innovations in meeting defence needs.
The minister directly addressed startups and scaleups: “I’m here today because I need your help. We want to work more with you, and we need to make this journey together to make Sweden safer, now and in the future” the minister stressed.
Partnering for a secure future
Collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to security are vital for tech companies and the defence sector alike. By embracing these principles, Sweden and Europe can navigate modern security challenges, ensuring a safer tomorrow.
This discussion underscores a collective ambition to not only address current security challenges but also work proactively to prepare for the future. Central to these efforts is the role of startups and scaleups, whose groundbreaking innovations are key to driving Sweden’s technological advancements in defence.
However, this requires an ecosystem that supports innovation and new partnerships, ensuring accessible funding, supportive policies, and platforms that foster cross-sectoral collaborations. The way forward is marked by collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to national and global security.
New funding and collaboration opportunities
Sweden and Europe are responding to the need for defense innovation by introducing several key funding and collaboration opportunities. These efforts aim to engage startups and scaleups, empowering them to bring innovative solutions to the defense sector. By focusing on these companies, the goal is to make the defense industry more dynamic and responsive to evolving security needs.
Some of these initiatives are:
European Defence Fund (EDF)
A European Commission initiative, aimed to support collaborative defence projects. It focuses on funding the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) at various stages, from research to market deployment.
NATO Innovation Fund (NIF)
Aimed at enhancing NATO’s innovation ecosystem, NIF supports deep tech innovations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). It facilitates the commercialization of technologies vital for the Alliance’s security by addressing the funding gap in the market.
DIANA (NATO)
An acceleration program and network of test centers connecting startups with end users, scientists, and integrators to promote the development of dual-use deep tech solutions for NATO.
Säkerhets- och försvarsföretagen (SOFF)
A trade association for the security and defence industry in Sweden. SOFF works to improve market access and trade opportunities for companies within the sector, fostering a competitive business environment.
SME-D
As a network and knowledge hub, SME-D promotes collaboration, competence development, and experience exchange. Its goal is to enhance the competitiveness of its members and ensure the continuous supply of skills in the industry.
Computer and System Architecture meetups
The CaSA meetups: Building bridges in computer and system architecture
The Computer and System Architecture (CaSA) Meetup series has emerged as a key hub for bridging minds in the field. Organized by Jonas Svennebring, Jakob Engblom, and Magnus Karlsson, this initiative is gearing up for its third gathering in Kista this March. The Meetup series stands out not just for its focus on deep technical discussions, but for its commitment to fostering a community spirit where ideas and innovations thrive.
Inspiration and objectives
Jonas Svennebring, Principal Engineer at Intel Corporation and one of the founding members, shared the origins of the CaSA Meetup series:
– The inspiration comes from a popular Linux conference in Paris called Kernel Recipes where a limited number of participants gather in a relaxed setting to talk about tech and eat good food. We liked all aspects of this and thought it would be great to have something similar locally. A smaller, regular event near work seemed perfect for us.
CaSA Meetup is about bringing together like-minded individuals to share knowledge, discuss emerging trends, and, importantly, enjoy good company. Svennebring points out that while the organizers are all employed at Intel, CaSA is a personal initiative driven by a shared passion for technology. The meetups serve as a platform to step out of one’s technological niche and explore the dynamic landscape of innovations within computer and system architecture.
The format
The format of CaSA Meetups is designed to maximize interaction and engagement. Svennebring explains:
– What we have tried so far, and that seems to work very well, is starting with two presentations of about 30 minutes each, followed by a break for networking and snacks. This setup naturally encourages participants to discuss the presentations just witnessed and build upon them. We then rejoin for a Q&A session with the presenters. Having had time to break the ice, participants often engaged in lively discussions. The underlying idea is to help attendees meet, form new connections, and exchange ideas. While presentations are crucial, the discussions they spark are equally significant.
The CaSA Meetups have proven to be an effective platform for lively discussions, with attendees keen to return for more. This enthusiasm underscores the success of the event’s format, which is curated by Jonas and the organizing team. Their focus is on fostering an environment that encourages open dialogue and collaboration among professionals from both industry and academia. By managing the size of the meetups, they ensure each event remains a place for meaningful engagement, preserving the series’ blend of intimacy and interactivity.
The Kista spirit
Choosing Kista as the venue for CaSA Meetups was a natural decision for the organizers. Apart from its accessibility and the organizers’ professional ties to the area, Svennebring highlights Kista’s vibrant tech ecosystem as a key aspect right from the start.
– There was never any doubt that we would go for Kista. There’s so much interesting tech development going on in the area, and we already have strong connections to companies and innovators here. Our collaboration with Kista Science City has been crucial for getting started. Working with Mikaela Färnqvist has been very smooth. It’s also nice to be able to hold the meeting high up in the Kista Science Tower (thanks Vasakronan!). It really adds a special atmosphere to the meetings.
Join CaSA Meetup #3 in March!
On March 13, the CaSA community will meet again, this time to delve into the theme of RISC-V. “We have two really exciting speakers, so it promises to be an engaging session. This area has received a lot of attention in recent years but also presents significant challenges. As always, we look forward to the enjoyable discussions over drinks and snacks that have become the trademark of our meetups!” says Svennebring.
📅 March 13
🕒 17:00 – 21:00
📍 Kista
Are you interested in the cutting edge of computer and system architecture? CaSA Meetup #3 in March is your opportunity to join a community of like-minded individuals who are all about sharing knowledge, sparking innovative discussions, and building connections in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Don’t miss out – Sign up today! >> Computer and Systems Architecture meetup – Kista Science City
Bringing ideas to life in Kista
Do you have an idea for an event or a community initiative that could enrich the Kista ecosystem? Kista Science City offers support to turn your vision into reality. Reach out to us, and let’s make it happen together!
Survey: Help us shape cybersecurity support initiatives for Swedish tech businesses
As a tech professional, you understand the critical role of cybersecurity in safeguarding your company’s digital assets. Now, you have the chance to directly influence the support initiatives that will equip you to create secure products and solutions.
Take just 3 minutes to complete our survey and help us understand your specific cybersecurity needs and challenges.
The survey is a part of the research conducted by Sweden Secure Tech Hub, an initiative that creates activities and offerings in the field of cybersecurity for small and medium-sized tech companies.
By responding to the survey, you help us help you. The input will serve as the foundation for the types of investments we, as Science Park, need to make to support your company.
Sweden Secure Tech Hub will offer a variety of resources and services, ranging from lectures, webinars, expert assistance, testing opportunities, and help in finding the necessary funding for planned development initiatives. Some of these activities are already underway, such as open meetings within the Cyberly network, where you can gain inspiration and support.
Sweden Secure Tech Hub is a national innovation hub in the field of cybersecurity and is a collaboration between six of Sweden’s leading Science Parks: Linköping Science Park, Lindholmen Science Park (Gothenburg), Ideon Science Park (Lund), Kista Science Park (Stockholm), Luleå Science Park, and Blue Science Park (Karlskrona).
Your voice matters. By completing the survey, you’re actively shaping the future of cybersecurity for Swedish tech companies. Together, we can create a secure and thriving tech ecosystem that empowers innovation and growth.
Sweden ICT, the organization behind Sweden Secure Tech Hub, is a collaboration between six of Sweden’s leading science parks in tech and digitalization: Linköping Science Park, Lindholmen Science Park (Västsverige), Ideon Science Park (Lund), Kista Science City (Stockholm), Luleå Science Park, and Blue Science Park (Karlskrona). Together, we represent an ecosystem with over 2,400 companies and 59,000 employees.
Sweden Secure Tech Hub has been designated by the EU as a European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) and has been tasked with supporting and strengthening companies and society in their secure digitalization efforts.
The work is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Tillväxtverket, and Region Blekinge, in collaboration with the participating partners.
If you want to learn how to take part of upcoming activities, please contact:
Karin Bengtsson, CEO, Kista Science City
Email: karin.bengtsson@kista.com
Emma Sturesson, Project Manager, Blue Science Park
Email: emma.sturesson@bluesciencepark.se
Applied Autonomy establishes Swedish hub
Applied Autonomy establishes Swedish hub
Applied Autonomy, known for innovative work in autonomous transportation, has chosen Kista as a strategic hub for their Swedish operations. This decision marks an important step in the Norwegian company’s expansion and commitment to grow within the Swedish market.
Swedish base
Choosing Kista as a Swedish hub reflects Applied Autonomy’s commitment to being closer to key partners and to becoming part of the dynamic tech landscape in the area. CEO Olov Medland shares his perspective on this strategic decision:
– Kista’s unique combination of technological expertise and collaborative culture made it an ideal choice for us. We are excited about being part of this tech community, contributing to and benefiting from the synergies it offers.
Applied Autonomy is positioned to play a significant role in the evolving landscape of urban transport in Stockholm and Sweden. The company is enthusiastic about sharing its insights and experiences in autonomous transport and collaborating with other companies and innovators in this field. “The possibilities are endless, and we’re eager to explore them,” says Medland.
5G Ride
Applied Autonomy has recently joined the 5G Ride project. Central to their contribution is the xFlow® platform, an innovative solution that ensures a seamless link between vehicles, operators, and end-users, thereby enabling safe and efficient transport. Medland emphasizes the importance of this project:
– Joining 5G Ride was a natural decision for us. The project aligns perfectly with our capabilities, including xFlow®, and our commitment to shaping the future of autonomous transportation. Our participation in this innovative project is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate how our technology can be integrated into existing urban transport systems, enhancing safety, efficiency, and overall user experience.