From Madrid to Krems – an international journey in science

Rubén Ruiz Torrubiano’s professional path is as diverse as it is inspiring. After beginning his doctoral studies in computer science in Madrid, life took him to Austria, where he planned a future with his wife-to-be, a former IMC student. After successfully completing his PhD in Austria, Rubén Ruiz Torrubiano decided to put his expertise into practice for a while and gained valuable experience in a software company in Lower Austria. Initially, he worked as a developer and later as CTO, making a significant contribution to the company’s impressive growth.
Despite these successes, he realised how much he was missing scientific research. His interest in teaching eventually brought him to IMC Krems, where he taught as a part-time lecturer. “I realised how much I enjoy working with students. This increased my desire to return to academia,” he explains. He now describes the decision to accept a full-time position at the Institute for Digitalisation as one of the best he has ever made.

A vision for responsible AI

Rubén has a clear mission for heading the new programme: he wants to train the next generation of AI experts who are not only technically excellent but also ethically reflective. “With great power comes great responsibility,” he emphasises. The goal is to not only prepare students for the technical aspects of AI but also to give them a deep understanding of the societal and ethical implications.

“It’s not enough to include a few ethics courses in the curriculum. We need a comprehensive understanding of AI systems and their impact,” says Rubén. The programme course therefore combines technical modules such as deep learning and generative AI with practice-oriented topics such as sustainability and health.

A degree programme with a future

What makes Engineering Responsible AI Systems so unique? The focus is on the interface between technology and society. Companies clearly see the value of this approach: “In discussions with industry, it was clear that graduates with a combined background in technology, ethics and application knowledge are in high demand, especially in the context of new regulations such as the EU AI Act,” explains Rubén.

Cutting-edge research at the core

In addition to his teaching, Rubén is deeply involved in research. His main focus is on neurosymbolic AI, a promising combination of data-driven approaches and symbolic learning. “AI systems should be trustworthy and transparent rather than black boxes that nobody understands,” he explains. A current project is investigating how mathematical algorithms can be combined with data to make school timetables more efficient – an exciting example of the practical use of his research.

A charming programme director with a heart for students

Rubén’s enthusiasm for his subject is infectious, and his attitude towards students makes him particularly likeable. “I want them to be curious and to ask critical questions. No matter who says something, understanding is key,” he encourages them. Outside of work, Rubén finds balance with his family, as well as cycling and running. On clear nights, he uses his reflecting telescope to take fascinating glimpses of planets like Jupiter and Saturn. These observations remind him of how small we are in the big scheme of things – and that also applies to problems: “Sometimes problems are only as big as we want to see them.”

A course with impact

With Rubén Ruiz Torrubiano as Programme Director, the new master in Engineering Responsible AI Systems not only offers excellent training, but also a perspective on how AI can improve our world. His passion for research, his commitment to students and his vision for responsible AI make you want to find out more about a programme that is ground-breaking in both technological and societal terms.

* subject to approval by AQ Austria