Data Science and Complex Driving Systems: the Keys to Tomorrow’s Mobility

What are your tasks and what goals are you pursuing as a data scientist for autonomous driving and parking?

Jan: My focus is on the development of autonomous driving functions and sensors that detect the vehicle’s environment. An important part of my work is validating the functions in collaboration with global partners to ensure they meet Audi’s standards and perform reliably in real-world driving situations.

The sensors continuously capture environmental data, while control units analyze distances and behavior patterns. Relevant data is then uploaded to the cloud and optimized using machine learning models. By leveraging technologies such as large language models, we can identify potential hazards and further enhance the efficiency of our systems.

How do you define the “perfect chauffeur”?

Jan: Based on this continuously recorded sensor data and the integration of modern machine learning models, I imagine the perfect chauffeur as a vehicle equipped with cameras and a multitude of sensors – capturing its surroundings in real time and enabling algorithms to react faster than a Formula 1 driver. 

This is exactly what we are working towards every day: an autonomous system that not only detects dangers early, but also redefines the driving experience with unparalleled safety and comfort.

Your childhood and education are strongly linked to tradition and Vorsprung durch Technik. What impact has this connection had on your career path?

Jan: The smell of machine oil in my grandfather’s company – a mechanical engineer himself – left a lasting impression on my childhood. His enthusiasm and the machines he built awakened my fascination with technology, laying the foundation for my career. After completing my PhD in theoretical physics, I spent several years at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston as a postdoctoral researcher in mathematics and mechanical engineering. Immersed in an international, interdisciplinary research environment, I grew both professionally and personally. This experience not only deepened my expertise, but also reaffirmed that I was on the right path – a unique opportunity to innovate while staying true to my passion for engineering.

How did you come to Audi and what motivates you every day?

Jan: At an MIT career fair, I became aware of the exciting development opportunities at Audi. The parallels between my academic work and my activities in the Group immediately convinced me – bringing together my scientific background, my grandfather’s inspiration, and my passion for technology.

Today, I am expanding and maintaining Audi’s relationships with universities, for example in a pilot project with the Technical University of Munich (TUM). I also regularly publish research papers and support students in bridging the gap between the academic world of the university and the practical world at Audi.

How has your day-to-day work at Audi changed compared to university?

Jan: In contrast to my time at university, I now work on real-world challenges that captivate public interest and have the potential to improve people’s lives in the very near future. It’s inspiring to develop visions for the vehicles of tomorrow and then bring them to life.

At Audi, I now have the opportunity to actively participate in progress and help shape the future of mobility – not alone, but with a team of highly motivated and talented colleagues who care about technical excellence. I find that extremely fulfilling.