Aalborg University’s 2026 REPAI Project Advances Responsible AI Research Through Interdisciplinary Collaboration
REPAI – Responsible AI for Value Creation
Aalborg University (AAU), in collaboration with the University of Copenhagen (KU) and Aarhus University (AU), is leading a major research initiative aimed at positioning Denmark as a global leader in the development of responsible and trustworthy artificial intelligence (AI).
Known as REPAI – Responsible AI for Value Creation, the interdisciplinary project focuses on helping businesses, public institutions and policymakers develop ethical, transparent and legally compliant AI solutions that deliver real-world value while maintaining public trust.
Backed by significant private funding, the initiative combines expertise from multiple academic disciplines to address some of the most pressing challenges surrounding artificial intelligence, including regulation, ethics, governance and societal impact.
REPAI Aims to Build Trustworthy and Responsible AI
As AI technologies continue to transform industries worldwide, the REPAI project seeks to bridge the gap between technological innovation and responsible implementation.
The project’s primary objectives include:
- Advancing responsible AI research through interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Supporting businesses and public organisations in developing compliant AI systems.
- Contributing to improvements in AI legislation and governance.
- Creating a shared language between technical, legal, ethical and social science disciplines.
- Educating the next generation of AI researchers and developers.
Researchers believe that combining expertise from multiple fields is essential for ensuring AI technologies benefit society while reducing potential risks.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration at the Core of the Project
One of REPAI’s defining features is its emphasis on genuine interdisciplinary research, bringing together specialists from computer science, public administration, ethics, law and other academic disciplines.
The project is built around three guiding principles:
- Real-world collaboration: Researchers work together on practical AI challenges rather than hypothetical scenarios.
- Physical proximity: Team members share collaborative workspaces to encourage continuous knowledge exchange.
- Iterative learning: Research evolves through ongoing collaboration, allowing participants to develop shared understanding across disciplines.
This approach enables researchers to evaluate AI technologies from technical, legal, ethical and societal perspectives simultaneously.
Research Focuses on Real-World AI Applications
Rather than limiting research to theoretical discussions, REPAI investigates practical AI use cases that present genuine regulatory and ethical challenges.
Current research projects include:
- AI-powered video surveillance on Aalborg’s harbour front in partnership with Milestone Systems.
- Artificial intelligence solutions for elderly care developed in collaboration with Aalborg Municipality.
These projects allow researchers to explore how AI can create public value while addressing important questions related to privacy, accountability, regulation and public acceptance.
Supporting Responsible AI Policy Development
Beyond academic research, REPAI aims to contribute to the future development of AI regulation in both Denmark and the European Union.
Researchers hope their findings will help policymakers:
- Improve AI legislation.
- Balance innovation with ethical safeguards.
- Increase public confidence in AI technologies.
- Support businesses developing regulatory-compliant AI solutions.
As governments worldwide continue introducing AI governance frameworks, projects such as REPAI are expected to play an increasingly important role in informing future policy decisions.
Funding Supports Long-Term AI Innovation
The REPAI project has received 24 million Danish kroner (DKK) in funding from the Grundfos Poul Due Jensen Foundation, enabling researchers to pursue long-term interdisciplinary studies into responsible AI development.
The financial support allows participating universities to strengthen collaboration across institutions while expanding research into emerging AI technologies and their societal implications.
Agile Research Model Responds to Rapid AI Developments
Recognising the fast-changing nature of artificial intelligence, REPAI operates using an adaptive research framework designed to remain responsive to new technological developments.
Instead of following a fixed multi-year research agenda, the project is divided into eight six-month phases.
At the end of each phase:
- Research priorities are reviewed.
- New objectives are identified.
- Future activities are approved by the project’s steering committee.
This flexible model enables researchers to adapt quickly as AI technologies, regulations and societal expectations continue to evolve.
Preparing the Next Generation of Responsible AI Leaders
Education forms a central pillar of the REPAI initiative.
The project seeks to inspire students and emerging researchers to prioritise ethical, transparent and socially beneficial AI throughout their careers.
By integrating interdisciplinary research into higher education, the initiative aims to equip future AI professionals with the skills needed to develop technologies that are technically advanced, legally compliant and socially responsible.
Collaboration Between Denmark’s Leading Universities
The REPAI project is hosted by Aalborg University (AAU) in partnership with the University of Copenhagen (KU) and Aarhus University (AU).
The collaboration also draws on expertise from international scholars across multiple disciplines, ensuring that research reflects global perspectives on responsible artificial intelligence.
Shaping the Future of Responsible Artificial Intelligence
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into public services, healthcare, business and everyday life, initiatives such as REPAI demonstrate the growing importance of responsible AI research.
Through interdisciplinary collaboration, practical real-world case studies and ongoing engagement with policymakers and industry partners, the project aims to help ensure that future AI systems remain ethical, transparent and beneficial to society.
By combining technological innovation with strong governance and public accountability, REPAI is positioning Denmark at the forefront of global efforts to build trustworthy artificial intelligence for the future.
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