The Leipzig-based company is funding research work and three doctoral positions for five years
Leipzig University of Applied Sciences (HTWK Leipzig) and Mitteldeutsche IT GmbH signed a research agreement at the beginning of November: Over a period of five years, the Leipzig-based IT company will fund innovative research work in the field of artificial intelligence within the Web Science and Engineering (WSE) research group headed by Prof Dr Andreas Both.
The WSE research group has been successfully conducting research at the interface of software engineering, web technologies, artificial intelligence and data for many years and has already received several awards for its work.
Mitteldeutsche IT GmbH, based in Leipzig, is an experienced cloud provider and internet service provider with more than 13 years of market presence. Its portfolio includes its own cloud solutions specifically for IT system houses and software manufacturers, a German office cloud with a focus on data protection and GDPR compliance, high-speed internet and broadband supply for cities, municipalities and companies in the region, including fibre optic projects, and high security standards (certifications such as BSI C5, Trusted Cloud, ISO 27001 and ISO 9001 as well as data centres exclusively in Germany).
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A central component of the cooperation is the establishment of three doctoral positions, which offer young scientists the opportunity to complete a doctorate with a practical focus. This not only further strengthens the scientific performance of the WSE Group, but also specifically addresses the shortage of skilled workers at Mitteldeutsche IT GmbH - because the positions are deliberately collaborative and thus ensure the direct transfer of knowledge and expertise into the company.
"The cooperation with Mitteldeutsche IT GmbH gives us the opportunity to further expand our internationally recognised research work in the field of AI. At the same time, we are creating optimal conditions for training highly qualified specialists for the region," emphasises Prof. Andreas Both.
Mitteldeutsche IT GmbH also sees great opportunities: "Thanks to the direct transfer of knowledge, we benefit directly from the latest scientific findings. This enables us to increase our technology level and ensure the sustainable growth of our company," explains Martin Flechsig, Managing Director of Mitteldeutsche IT GmbH.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Faouzi Derbel, Vice-Rector for Research and Sustainability at HTWK Leipzig, emphasises the importance of the partnership: "This cooperation is a good example of the successful and lively collaboration between HTWK Leipzig and regional SMEs. Our practical orientation predestines us for such collaborations. I am particularly pleased that we are strengthening the growth-orientated IT SME sector in Leipzig, which plays a key role in the economic future of our city and also offers attractive career opportunities for our graduates."
With this agreement, both partners are sending a clear signal: applied research and business are joining forces to strengthen the innovative power of the Leipzig region and further expand Central Germany as an attractive location for future-oriented AI developments.
