Master's thesis: Assessing the role of generative AI in supporting the innovation readiness of novel technologies

We are looking for a Master of Science student for a thesis project at the Sensor Systems unit at RISE in Göteborg. The work is carried out jointly with the Printed, Bio- & Organic electronics unit at RISE in Norrköping.

This project aims to bridge the gap between emerging generative AI technologies and the challenges of bringing new technologies to market, offering a roadmap to leverage AI-driven insights for more efficient and successful commercialization of research results, with a particular focus on wood-based electronics.

Background
RISE is coordinating the EU-funded HyPELignum project that seeks to demonstrate, via a holistic approach, that the combination of additive manufacturing, wood-based materials, abundant transition metals and advance sustainable assessment, can lead to the conceptualization and manufacturing of net-zero carbon electronics.

As part of the work to maximize the exploitation of the research results generated in the project, a methodology has been investigated to assess the innovation readiness of technologies along several dimensions.

The commercialization of novel technologies is a complex process, requiring careful navigation of intellectual property rights (IPR), assessment of technology readiness levels (TRL), evaluation of customer readiness, securing funding, and ensuring manufacturing scalability. Generative AI, with its advanced capabilities in text generation, data analysis, and strategic insights, presents an opportunity to enhance and streamline this process. By automating research, predicting market trends, generating tailored business strategies, and optimizing stakeholder communication, generative AI could become a powerful tool for supporting businesses to bring groundbreaking technologies to competitive markets and to seize new opportunities for growth.

Thesis description
The aim of this thesis is to evaluate how generative AI can support the process of bringing novel technologies to market, with the HyPELignum project as case study.

 Specific objectives include:

1. Mapping Potential Applications: Identify and analyze the specific areas where generative AI can add value in the commercialization journey by strengthening the innovation readiness of the technology along different dimensions (IPR, business development, customers analysis, etc).
2. Assessment of Capabilities: Evaluate the strengths, limitations, and ethical considerations of generative AI in addressing these areas.
3. Framework Development: Propose a framework or set of guidelines for leveraging generative AI in the commercialization process.
4. Validation: Use the HyPELignum project as case study to demonstrate how generative AI tools can effectively support the transition of new technologies from the lab to the market.

This thesis addresses the growing need for tools that can accelerate the transition of innovative technologies from concept to market, contributing to economic growth and societal impact. By evaluating the role of generative AI, this research will provide actionable insights into harnessing AI for strategic advantage in the innovation landscape.

Terms

• The thesis project is expected to be carried out during Spring 2025. The expected duration of the thesis work is about 20 weeks.
• Location: RISE, Göteborg. Option to partially work remotely.
• Credits: 15 or 30 ECTS (academic credits) in agreement with your thesis advisor at your university.
• Number of students per group: 1-2

Who are you?
You have an interest in sustainability, AI, business, and innovative technologies. You should be a M.Sc. student in the field of innovation, industrial engineering/management, engineering, or related subject.

Welcome with your application!
If you need more information, please contact Vincent Schaller (vincent.schaller@ri.se). Applications should include (1) a brief personal letter, (2) a CV, and (3) a recent grade transcript. Candidates are encouraged to send their application as soon as possible but at the latest by 2024-02-18. Please apply directly through this portal (RISE cannot accept applications via email).