The ELLIS Unit Amsterdam is excited to announce the 2^nd ELLIS Winter School on Foundation Models in 2025. This year we have 250 seats available. Secure your spot!

The FoMo presents a valuable opportunity to explore the intricacies of foundation models and to highlight how Europe is establishing its own path beyond the widely-known Big Tech narrative. Notable insights and innovative approaches are emerging from Europe in both academia and industry. Thus, one of the main objectives of this winter school is to highlight these perspectives and provide a thorough understanding of how Europe is shaping its research agenda with unique directions while fostering community collaboration. Participants can expect a diverse lineup of speakers, including Tim Rocktäschel (UCL and Google Deepmind), Amir Zamir (EPFL), and Fahad Khan (MBZUAI, Linköping University Sweden)– more to be announced soon, and the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals.

Format

The program’s composition remains consistent with 2-3 lectures per day. This year, reading sessions are added to the daily programs of the ELLIS Winter School, which allow the participants to dive deep into different foundation model topics. The late-afternoon slots are allocated for free-form collaboration, which we encourage to provide time for the participants to exchange with like-minded participants and prototype a novel idea. Social networking events are organized to officially give opportunities for the participants and speakers to get to know each other. The School also features a poster session showcasing participants’ latest works on foundation models. Feedback from the 2024 FoMo highlights how this session inspires valuable insights among proactive participants.

Application and cost

Last year, we had 150 participants from 90 different institutions and 40 different nationalities, and we are excited to see an even greater diversity this time. Preference will be given to ELLIS PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers, but applications are welcome from individuals around the world.

If you are interested, kindly complete your application here, the deadline is 26 January 2025 at 23:59 CET.

The fee for participating in the winter school will be

• MSc and PhD students: 350€
• Industry/ startup/ other participants: 550€

The fees cover logistic costs, coffee breaks, lunch, and social activities (travel and accommodation are self-organized). The fee can be waived for applicants from underrepresented backgrounds who require financial assistance (see application form).

2024 ELLIS Winter School

You can read the overview of the first ELLIS Winter School on Foundation Models in 2024 here.