The FARI Conference returns on 17 and 18 November in Brussels, find out more.

An Initiative of

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FARI offers the capacity, skills, and knowledge required for advanced research in AI, Data, and Robotics for the Common Good.

We are working to co-create a society where AI, Data, and Robotics could contribute to it. We work on local and international projects that aim at enabling a sustainable transition, starting with our own region of Brussels. So we work in, with and on Brussels as a laboratory and testing ground in a regional, national and International context.
FARI Brussels Community
FARI Brussels Community

Headquartered in BeCentral, our central team helps build stronger research and innovation ecosystem in Brussels.

Central team

Academic Directors

ULB and VUB

The Academic Director ensure FARI's research, education, and initiatives align with its mission to advance ethical and interdisciplinary AI, data, and robotics for society's benefit.

Goeffrey Aerts
Tom lenaerts

Tom Lenaerts

Academic Director (ULB)

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Gregory Lewkowicz

Academic Director (ULB)

Ann Nowe

Ann Nowé

Academic Director (VUB)

FARI Directors

Leadership

FARI is led by its directors, who oversee operations, partnerships, and strategic development. They ensure the institute's impact extends beyond research to policy, innovation, and public engagement.

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Karen Boers

Managing Director

Carl Morch

Carl Mörch

Co-Director

Hans de Canck, FARI Co-Director

Hans de Canck

Co-Director

Smart Region Hub

Research and Innovation

The Smart Region Hub supports the development of AI, robotics, and Digital Twin technologies to create smarter, more sustainable cities. It combines immersive 3D environments, legal and policy expertise, and hands-on prototyping through FARI’s Test and Experience Center to turn innovation into real-world solutions for urban and regional challenges.

Martin Canter 1

Martin Canter

Head of Smart Region Hub - AI and Data Expert

Ilse Marien

Ilse Marien

Senior Innovation Policy Expert

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Siméon Michel

AI Lead Developer, FARI Test and Experience Center

Susheel Nath

Susheel Nath

AR VR XR Specialist / CAVE Manager

Mosa

Mosa Sebdani

Frontend Developer

Training and Services Hub

Education and Learning

The Training & Services Hub aims to improve AI literacy, share practical knowledge, and build long-term partnerships that reduce barriers to AI research and innovation. By supporting the responsible and sustainable adoption of artificial intelligence, the Hub helps partners from academia, industry, and the public sector implement impactful AI solutions with confidence. Through accessible training and expert guidance, it promotes ethical, transparent, and inclusive AI practices for the common good.

Emilie Maccarini

Emilie Maccarini

Head of Training and Services Hub

Lore Stanson

Lore Stanson

AI Academy Program Lead

Nassima

Nassima Noufail

AI Training Expert

Aysun Caliskan

Aysun Caliskan

e-Learning Expert

SMEs Hub

Business Development

The SMEs Hub drives private partnerships and supports the growth of AI-driven innovation by connecting start-ups, industry, and research. It empowers entrepreneurs through tailored programs, ethical AI guidance, and access to the broader FARI ecosystem.

Goeffrey Aerts

Geoffrey Aerts

Academic Director (VUB)

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Oussama Errazi

Program Coordinator – FARI AI Accelerator

Diana Remache

Diana Remache

Project Manager, SME's & EDIH

Citizen Engagement Hub

Citizens

The Citizen Engagement Hub fosters AI innovation driven by the needs of civil society and aligned with global trends. We turn insights into real-world projects that serve the common good. With a strong foundation in field experience and research, the Hub aims to lead in citizen engagement across Europe, advancing cutting-edge approaches at the crossroads of AI and public participation.

Lea Rogliano

Léa Rogliano

Head of Citizen Engagement Hub

Alice Demaret

Alice Demaret

Citizen Engagement Hub Project Manager - AI Impact Advisor

Marketing and Communication Hub

Community of Practice

The FARI Marketing and Communication team is the primary contact for external communication, PR, and visitor inquiries. We shape and execute FARI’s communication strategy to strengthen visibility, and strategic engagement.

Laura Jousset

Laura Jousset

Head of Marketing and Communications

Sezen Avci

Sezen Avci

Science Communication Officer

Strategic Operations Hub

Bridge to Operational Efficiency

The Strategic Operations Hub focuses on enhancing the administrative, financial, and logistical operations of the institute. Our mission is to ensure optimal and measurable performance by streamlining internal processes and improving coordination across teams.

Laurence Renault

Laurence Renault

Head of Strategic Operations Hub - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Lead

Kenneth Hannaert

Kenneth Hannaert

Management Assistant

Stijn Van Hijfte

Stijn Van Hijfte

Development Management Support

We work with several partners in and out of Brussels to help us achieve our grand mission.

Partners

FARI started with a mission to connect people across disciplines, expertise, and organisations in making science and innovation more accessible and impactful to society.

Today, our network of like-minded organisations and institutions help FARI conceptualise, develop, and implement important projects for the region.

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