CURRENT RESEARCH PROGRAM
Breakthrough Technologies for the Future – Sensing, Digitisation, Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Technologies | Social Aspects of Disruptive Technologies (2022 – 2026)
The entire data ecosystem begins with data sources in the form of sensors, measurement, imaging and analytical systems, includes a number of levels of data processing and communication tools, and rather does not end with their evaluation. Due to the size of data, it is impossible to do without tools of artificial intelligence at all levels of data processing, which means mainly machine and deep learning. Quantum technologies then represent truly a step to the future with the potential to bring about another paradigmatic change. Sensors using quantum effects significantly refine measurements, quantum cryptography and communication will take data processing to a qualitatively higher level, and the effects of quantum computing on mathematics, computer science, and virtually all aspects of science and society cannot be overestimated. At the same time, both autonomous AI systems and other digital and quantum technologies must, like humans, operate within legal and ethical frameworks.
The program exploits synergies whose common denominator is digitization and AI. It connects those for whom these technologies are the subject of research with those they serve as a tool. It includes technology assessment, the study of legal issues and the dissemination of knowledge to the lay public and the application sphere.
FORMER RESEARCH PROGRAM
Hopes and Risks of the Digital Era (2018 – 2021)
This research project reflects on long-term research activities of the Institute in the area of law and information and communication technologies. Since 2001, the Institute has received a number of grant projects focused on electronic signatures, privacy protection in electronic communications, normative regulation of computer networks or regulation of biometric data. Lately, the Institute has been very active in the field of law related to autonomous systems, especially artificial intelligence and smart robotics. A series of regular workshops and lectures has been organized each month since February 2017. These lectures have covered topics such as biometric data protection, liability of autonomous systems, cybersecurity, privacy in electronic communications, automated decision-making, neurolaw, energetics, blockchain, electronic signatures, etc.
The aim of this project is to further develop the field of information and communication law in the Czech Republic as well as to contribute to development of internationally harmonized legal solutions. Members of this research project participate for instance at the Platform for autonomous cars organized by the Czech Ministry of Transportation, or the Platform for artificial intelligence organized by the Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic. Head of the research project is also a member of the Expert group on New Technologies and Liability at the European Commission.