Collaboration and Innovation

Progress in affective computing requires an interdisciplinary approach and close knowledge transfer. We understand innovation as the result of systematic cooperation between academic research, industrial development, and societal stakeholders. In this context, the IAC serves as a platform for consortium-based projects in which engineers, data scientists, and psychologists collaborate on complex challenges. Through our networks with universities and industry partners, we ensure that theoretical models are translated into practical applications that are both technologically advanced and ethically sound.

Our Mission

The core mission of the IAC is the implementation of publicly funded, socially relevant research initiatives. We aim to generate scientific knowledge in the field of affective technologies and make these insights accessible to the research community and to the public (“open science”). Our goal is to bridge the gap between raw data processing and the interpretation of complex human states. We are committed to ensuring that advancements in artificial intelligence are used to establish adaptive, resilience-enhancing, and human-centered systems.

Our Research Focus

The institute’s scientific activities are centered around three core pillars:

• Emotion AI and Multimodal Signal Processing:
  Development and validation of algorithms for the automated detection of affective states. This includes the application of machine learning and generative AI to fuse and interpret data from diverse modalities-such as micro facial expressions, paralinguistic features, and physiological biosignals (e.g., ECG, EDA)-in real time.

• Empathic Dialogue Systems:
  We study and model complex behavioral patterns to design adaptive, context-sensitive, and socially intelligent interaction systems. Our research focuses on the relationships between measurable behavior and internal cognitive, emotional, and somatic processes in order to optimize the prediction of user intentions and states.

• Affective Technologies and Intervention:
  Concept development, prototyping, and psychometric evaluation of technological systems aimed at emotional well-being and mental health. This includes the development of biofeedback-based applications and assistive technologies designed to enhance quality of life.

Our Chairman

Prof. Dr. Jarek Krajewski, Chairman of the IAC, is among the leading experts in the field of affective computing. He studied psychology, ergonomics, and signal processing at the University of Wuppertal and earned his doctorate in acoustic detection of drowsiness. His academic career includes professorships and teaching appointments in human–technology interaction and engineering psychology at various research institutions and universities (including the University of Cologne, University of Würzburg, and WHU Vallendar).

His expertise at the intersection of fundamental research and industrial application is reflected in his successful acquisition and leadership of large-scale funded research projects. Over the past 10 years, he has managed a total funding volume of €7.5 million across more than 20 publicly financed research initiatives (including DFG, EU, BMBF, BMWi). This work is complemented by collaborations with renowned industry partners such as Airbus, Bayer, BMW, and Sony.

His scientific impact is further underscored by an extensive publication record: Prof. Krajewski has authored more than 80 peer-reviewed articles. His influence within the research community is evidenced by more than 5,000 citations, an h-index of 28, and an i10-index of 60, marking a substantial contribution to evidence generation and advancement in the fields of Emotion AI and Computational Psychophysiology.

Contact Us!

Dedicated to pioneering research and developing advanced algorithms that integrate emotion AI, human behavior analysis, and other affective technologies.

Institute of Affective Computing e.V.

Kaiser-Friedrich Ring 108, 40547, Düsseldorf

Hours

Mon-Fri 9am-5:30pm