Advancing AI and Robotics in Oncology through International Collaboration

As part of the Integrated Research Training Group (IRTG) of CRC 1270 ELAINE, we are pleased to support the research stay of Jacob Thönes at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Odense from February 1 to March 14, 2026.

During his stay, Jacob is working within the SDU Robotics group, specifically in the Medical Robotics subgroup, under the supervision of Assistant Professor Zhuoqi Cheng. He contributes to and collaborates with researchers of the AIRCARE project, an ambitious and interdisciplinary initiative funded by the EU’s Horizon Europe program.

AIRCARE aims to integrate advanced AI and robotic technologies into clinical workflows to improve the detection, diagnosis, and surgical treatment of Upper Aero-Digestive Tract cancers. The developed technologies will be validated in clinical trials and supported toward adoption as a future standard of care in oncology centers, ultimately improving precision in patient management and clinical outcomes.

With his background in data processing, machine learning–based applications, and interdisciplinary clinical-technical research, Jacob contributes valuable expertise while further strengthening his interdisciplinary profile at the interface of AI, robotics, and medicine.

The IRTG of CRC 1270 ELAINE is proud to foster such international collaborations and research exchanges. We wish Jacob an exciting and inspiring time in Odense and a highly productive research stay.