In episode 11, we are joined by Lina Al Hashemi, Project Manager – Intellectual Property Acquisition at Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), and Ruxandra Cojocaru, Lead Researcher at the AI Digital Research Center within the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) - also in Abu Dhabi. ATRC is the organisation behind Falcon AI, one of the leading open-source large language models, whilst TII is Abu Dhabi's pioneering applied research centre dedicated to advancing science and technology to address global challenges. Interviewed by Melissa Murray, IP Partner in our Dubai office & Head of Country for the UAE - Lina and Ruxandra share their remarkable career journeys and insights into the UAE's rapidly evolving AI landscape. The conversation explores Lina's transition from Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development to ATRC and her mission within advanced research, including the critical considerations in technology procurement and IP acquisition. Ruxandra discusses her work on TII's AI research and Falcon models, outlining her ambitious goals and the opportunities and challenges within the large language models space. Both guests provide candid perspectives on the opportunities and challenges for women and other under-represented groups in AI and advanced research, the realities of business leadership in tech, and the impact of geopolitical events on their work. They also share valuable advice for others aspiring to follow similar trajectories in this cutting-edge field.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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