The five-year project, named CODA, aims to develop novel optimisation and learning methods that will enable AI systems to make decisions in complex real-world environments, rather than merely predicting outcomes. This research is crucial for applications in areas such as engineering, energy systems, and scientific discovery, where safety and reliability are paramount.
Dr Tsay's work sits at the intersection of optimisation and machine learning, drawing on expertise in mixed-integer programming and statistical learning. The project will focus on developing mathematical tools to optimise decisions and provide assurances about their dependability.
“"I’m delighted to receive this ERC Starting Grant, which will allow us to tackle fundamental challenges that currently limit the use of AI in real-world decision-making. We hope this research helps translate exciting advances in AI and machine learning into practical benefits across engineering and scientific discovery."
The ERC Starting Grant is a highly competitive funding scheme for early-career researchers, providing up to €1.5 million over five years. It supports researchers with the potential to become leaders in their fields, enabling them to establish independent teams and pursue ambitious research programmes. Through CODA, Dr Tsay and his team aim to bring advanced AI methods closer to safe and effective use in real-world applications.
