New Milestone for Public Innovation!
ICAI is proud to announce that the AI Lab for Public Services has officially joined our national ecosystem, fostering an environment where academic breakthroughs can be directly translated into more efficient, transparent, and trustworthy government services. This addition marks a significant step in ICAI’s mission, allowing researchers and public organizations to connect more effectively across the country.
Originally formed in 2022 as part of the Utrecht AI Labs, the AI Lab for Public Services was established with the overall mission to optimize public service through the effective and responsible use of AI and data science. The lab bridges the gap between academic innovation and governmental practice by developing AI solutions that are not only technically proficient but also reliable, explainable, and fundamentally aligned with public values such as privacy, transparency, and equal treatment.
The lab operates as a strategic partnership between Utrecht University, Utrecht University of Applied Sciences, and Vrije University Amsterdam, in close collaboration with an extensive network of governmental and societal partners: the Dutch Tax Authority (Belastingdienst), Logius, the IND, the Senate, and several national ministries such as Ministry of Justice and Security, and the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations. Through these extensive collaborations, including the specialized groups like Data School, the lab ensures that its research is directly informed by the real-world complexities of the Dutch public sector.
Its direction is guided by a core team of researchers specializing in three distinct pillars:
- Process Optimization – led by Iris Beerepoot (Assistant Professor at Utrecht University).
- Information Management – led by Guido Ongena (Utrecht University of Applied Sciences).
- Responsible AI – led by Mirko Schäfer (Data School of Utrecht University).
The lab follows the “Dual PhD Model”, in which the researchers often remain employed by their partner organizations while pursuing their doctorate. This structure ensures that the PhD candidates spend their week split between the knowledge institute and the government organization, facilitating direct knowledge transfer, and making sure that the research remains grounded in practical needs.
For more in-depth information about the lab, its mission, partners, team, research focus, projects and outcomes, visit AI Lab for Public Services.
