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IDE Publication Highlights (Week 39 2024)

Click here to view recent publication highlights from our staff and students.

National and International Phishing Attackers revealed

Phishing attacks, which trick users into sharing private data, have been a major online security threat for years. According to a 2023 FBI report, it is the top digital crime type. Researchers from the Intelligent Systems department have collaborated with three European country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs) to characterize phishing attacks, focusing on the Netherlands’ .nl, Belgium’s .be, and Ireland’s .ie. By understanding these patterns, the research aims to enhance security measures and protect internet users from phishing threats.

11,000 young researchers have obtained a PhD from TU Delft

It was a very memorable day for PhD Amey Vasulkar last Thursday, the 19th of September. Not only did he successfully defend his promotion on Arctic Sea Ice in Tide Models, but he was also the 11,000th student to obtain a PhD from TU Delft. We are incredibly proud of and thankful for every single one of these 11,000 PhDs who started their scientific journey with us and continuously strive to change the world through their scientific innovations.

How system safety can make Machine Learning systems safer in the public sector

Machine Learning (ML), a form of AI where patterns are discovered in large amounts of data, can be very useful. It is increasingly used, for example, in chatbot Chat GPT, facial recognition, or speech software. However, there are also concerns about the use of ML systems in the public sector. How do you prevent the system from, for example, discriminating or making large-scale mistakes with negative effects on citizens? Scientists at TU Delft, including Jeroen Delfos, investigated how lessons from system safety can contribute to making ML systems safer in the public sector. “Policymakers are busy devising measures to counter the negative effects of ML. Our research shows that they can rely much more on existing concepts and theories that have already proven their value in other sectors,” says Jeroen Delfos. Jeroen Delfos Learning from other sectors In their research, the scientists used concepts from system safety and systems theory to describe the challenges of using ML systems in the public sector. Delfos: “Concepts and tools from the system safety literature are already widely used to support safety in sectors such as aviation, for example by analysing accidents with system safety methods. However, this is not yet common practice in the field of AI and ML. By applying a system-theoretical perspective, we view safety not only as a result of how the technology works, but as the result of a complex set of technical, social, and organisational factors.” The researchers interviewed professionals from the public sector to see which factors are recognized and which are still underexposed. Bias There is room for improvement to make ML systems in the public sector safer. For example, bias in data is still often seen as a technical problem, while the origin of that bias may lie far outside the technical system. Delfos: “Consider, for instance, the registration of crime. In neighbourhoods where the police patrol more frequently, logically, more crime is recorded, which leads to these areas being overrepresented in crime statistics. An ML system trained to discover patterns in these statistics will replicate or even reinforce this bias. However, the problem lies in the method of recording, not in the ML system itself.” Reducing risks According to the researchers, policymakers and civil servants involved in the development of ML systems would do well to incorporate system safety concepts. For example, it is advisable to identify in advance what kinds of accidents one wants to prevent when designing an ML system. Another lesson from system safety, for instance in aviation, is that systems tend to become more risky over time in practice, because safety becomes subordinate to efficiency as long as no accidents occur. “It is therefore important that safety remains a recurring topic in evaluations and that safety requirements are enforced,” says Delfos. Read the research paper .

Kaitai Liang receives Distinguished Reviewer Award by ESORICS 2024

I am pleased to share that Kaitai Liang, a tenured faculty member of the Cybersecurity group, has been honored with the Distinguished Reviewer Award by ESORICS 2024.

Compliant DNA nanopores capable of size-selective molecule transport across cell membrane

Scientists at TU Delft and the Max Planck Institute have made a new class of structurally adaptable ‘mechanical’ pores made from DNA that can transport molecules through cell membranes. These innovative nanopores can open and close on demand and, for the first time, adjust their diameter.

New Delft Lectures in Design

This autumn marks the introduction of IDE’s three renewed Masters programmes. One of the unifying features is a stronger link with the world-leading research carried out in IDE. “Delft Lectures in Design - Where IDE moves the Horizons of Design Research” is a case in point. This new cross-programme course serves as a rigorous and inspiring introduction to the broad variety of IDE’s research.

Safety and Security Week 2024

Join us on 7, 8 and 10 October! From October 7 to 12, 2024, the national Safety & Security Week will take place. The free program organised by TU Delft takes place on October 7, 8 and 10. It will be an educational and interactive week— make sure you're there! The full program can be found on the website , including: Two interesting masterclasses ‘ Aggression and violence on campus: Navigating between reality and myths’ and ‘ Predict and Prevent: Masterclass in Safety, Crowd and Crisis Management’ Security & Privacy symposium Safety Square: increase your knowledge about safety and prepare yourself for emergencies For more information: Safety & Security Week (tudelft.nl) . Please note: some activities require registration through the website.

Flight Case 2024: A Journey to Japan

From 22 July – 3 August, 20 IDE master students, 8 committee members from the ID Study Association, assistant professor Rebecca Price, and professor Gerd Kortuem travelled to Japan for a unique learning experience. The group worked on cases for three global companies, Sony, NHK Spring, and Sekisui, each of which provided its own distinct challenges and insights.

Boosting sustainable building education

Boosting sustainable building education in The Netherlands On 17 September, TU Delft launched a new initiative to implement sustainable building practices across the Dutch educational landscape by bringing together educators from Dutch vocational institutions (MBO) and TU Delft lecturers. Last week, the kick-off event at The Green Village on the TU Delft campus brought together 10 educators from MBO institutions and lecturers from TU Delft’s Sustainable Building with Timber MOOC. Educating for impact From September to December 2024, the MBO educators will participate in the MOOC as students: watching videos, completing course exercises, and submitting assignments. Additionally, they will engage in online sessions guided by TU Delft lecturers, who provide subject matter expertise, and an educational expert supporting the online learning process. From December through June 2025, the focus will shift to creating adaptable and open teaching resources specifically developed for MBO institutions. A ripple effect By equipping teachers with the tools and knowledge to teach sustainable building, the initiative supports the transition to more environmentally responsible practices within the building industry. The knowledge shared through this programme, made possible in collaboration with Leren voor Morgen and the MBO Raad (Council for schools of vocational education and training ), will shape the future workforce and contribute to a more sustainable world. While initially targeting a limited number of MBO institutions, the initiative’s impact is expected to extend far beyond. As educators integrate the materials into their curricula, the knowledge will reach future generations of students, amplifying the long-term influence of the project. Sustainable Building with Timber MOOC Course information A two-way learning process This mutually beneficial project embodies lifelong learning. MBO teachers gain access to cutting-edge teaching materials on building with timber, while TU Delft benefits from the practical insights these practitioners bring from the field. This knowledge exchange enhances vocational education and strengthens TU Delft’s research and teaching. Open resources for lasting impact A key goal of the project is to create open-access, customisable teaching materials, enabling educators to tailor content to meet the specific needs of their institutions and students. This flexible approach fosters the teaching of sustainable building techniques. Acknowledgements Heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making this initiative possible. Together, we are laying the foundations for a more sustainable future.

Do something that matters

We komen in Nederland in het basis- en voorgezet onderwijs samen 13.500 leraren tekort. Het leraarschap heeft niet altijd de reputatie die het verdient. En dat terwijl het alles in zich heeft. Daarom startte Universiteiten van Nederland (UNL) vorig week de campagne ‘Doe iets wat ertoe doet’. Het doel is om mensen met een nieuwe blik naar het leraarschap te laten kijken.

Marina Bos-de Vos wins EURAM best paper award

At the end of June, IDE Assistant Professor of Strategic Design for Ecosystem Innovation, Marina Bos-de Vos, won two awards as a first author at the European Academy of Management (EURAM) Conference for her research paper "Projecting for accelerating sustainability transitions: practices of joint value creation in circular economy programs".

Three Students Nominated for the ECHO award

Three TU Delft students have been nominated for the ECHO Award 2024. The ECHO award is awarded to students with a non-western background who are actively engaged in society. Sibel, TJ and Pravesha talk about their background their nomination. The finalists will be selected on September 27th. Sibel Gökbekir How has your background influenced your academic journey? As a woman with Turkish roots, my academic journey has been about more than just pursuing degrees in engineering and law; it’s been about consistently advocating for the diverse needs of women and multicultural groups, ensuring their voices are heard in important decisions. This is why I actively contributed to different board positions at TU Delft, working to promote inclusivity and equality. My background inspired me to explore how engineering, law, and social justice intersect, particularly in empowering marginalised communities. I chose to study energy transitions and human rights to contribute to a fairer, more inclusive World. How have you turned this into contributions to society? I’ve dedicated my academic and personal life to promoting diversity and inclusion. As a youth ambassador for Stop Street Harassment, I aimed to create safer spaces for women and minorities because I believe everyone has the right to feel free and safe in society. Through the Turkish Golden Tulip Foundation, I advocated for vulnerable communities in earthquake relief. Additionally, I founded an initiative for migrant students in Rotterdam-South and I have been committed to improving educational opportunities for secondary school students with a migration background. Next, I gave guest lectures across the Netherlands to educate the younger generation about climate change and equitable energy transitions, emphasising the importance of a fair transition for all communities. What does it mean for you to nominated to the ECHO award? I feel very honoured to have been nominated on behalf of TU Delft. My commitment to community engagement is part of who I am, and therefore the ECHO Award is more than just a recognition; It offers me an opportunity to further expand my contributions to a more inclusive society. As an ECHO Ambassador, I plan to expand my efforts in promoting equality and sustainability, while inspiring others to take action for a more equitable World. TJ Rivera How has your background influenced your academic journey? My background as a Filipino in a Dutch-speaking bachelor’s programme made my academic journey both challenging and enriching. Being gay in a male-dominated field like Architecture, where most role models were heteronormative men, added another layer of difficulty. It was intimidating to not see people like me represented. However, this experience fuelled my belief that systems can and should be challenged, changed, and updated. I aimed to bring a fresh perspective, advocating for greater diversity and inclusivity in the field. How have you turned this into contributions to society? I translated my personal challenges into tangible contributions by advocating for inclusivity within architecture. Together with like-minded individuals, I began exploring the intersection of identity, sexuality, and architecture, and collaborated with my faculty’s diversity team to raise awareness. As I became known for my work with the queer community, I saw an opportunity to create lasting change. I co-revived ARGUS, the once-inactive study association for the Master of Architecture, which now serves as a platform to discuss and address issues of diversity within the field. This initiative continues to foster a more inclusive academic environment. What does it mean for you to be nominated to the Echo award? Being nominated for the ECHO Award is a significant milestone in my journey to expand my mission beyond the confines of my faculty. This national platform provides the opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for social justice on a larger scale. I believe students are key to driving change, and my focus is on amplifying the voices of the queer community, which is often overlooked. The ECHO Award will enable me to form partnerships with organizations and universities, further promoting diversity, inclusivity, and equality. It’s a chance to create broader, tangible change, addressing the needs of those who often go unheard. Pravesha Ramsundersingh How has your background influenced your academic journey? As a woman in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), my background has been a powerful motivator to challenge gender disparities within Computer Science. Experiencing firsthand the underrepresentation of women in this field, I have been driven to not only excel academically but also become an advocate for diversity. Through leadership roles in the Faculty and Central Student Councils, I’ve focused on creating an inclusive environment that supports women and minority students, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed. How have you turned this into contributions to society? I’ve translated my experiences into actionable contributions by actively advocating for DEI at TU Delft. I ensured sexual education and consent training for 3,000 freshmen students, and I led initiatives like the Social Safety Initiatives Conference alongside the Dutch National Coordinator against Racism and Discrimination. In my student governance roles, I pushed for policies that address gender discrimination and social safety concerns, creating a more supportive environment for students of all backgrounds to thrive in both academic and social spaces. What does it mean for you to nominated to the ECHO award? Being nominated for the ECHO Award is an incredible honour that highlights the importance of the work I have done to promote DEI. It inspires me to continue advocating for systemic change in the tech industry and academia. This nomination reaffirms my commitment to driving equity in STEM, ensuring that future generations have more inclusive opportunities. It also motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and empower others to take action for a more just and equal society. The ECHO Award Every year ECHO, Center for Diversity Policy, invites colleges and universities to nominate socially active students who make a difference in the field of Diversity & Inclusion for the ECHO Award 2024. The ECHO Award calls attention to the specific experiences that students with a non-Western background* carry with them and the way they manage to turn these experiences into a constructive contribution to society. Winners are selected by an independent jury and may attend a full-service Summercourse at UCLA in the United States in 2025. Read more: ECHO Award - ECHO (echo-net.nl)

All renewed BK bachelor courses relate to Sustainable Development Goals

All 24 courses in BK’s renewed bachelor’s programme are now connected to at least one Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). The most prevalent SDG in this new programme is SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), followed by SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). In total, 14 of the 17 SDGs are linked to at least one course: a starting point for better integrating sustainability in the courses’ contents, assignments and teaching materials.

2nd round of the 2024 SPRINT funding call with São Paulo, Brazil

The second round of the 2024 SPRINT call has opened . This SPRINT (São Paulo Researchers in International Collaboration) fund supports exchange visits and/or joint workshops undertaken by TU Delft staff and researchers from the State of São Paulo, Brazil. SPRINT funds the initial phase of joint international research collaborations with clear expectations that the researchers will submit a follow-up research proposals that continues the research started under SPRINT and consolidates the research partnership. The deadline for the 2024.2 edition is October 28, 2024.The total duration of a project can be 1 year, and the budget envelope is up to 7,500 Euro from TU Delft and up to 10,000 USD from FAPESP. FAPESP and TU Delft will fund a maximum of 4 approved proposals under this call. Please note that the Brazilian partners must have a current project funded by FAPESP to be eligible. Applicants need to send an application to both FAPESP and TU Delft. See full details in the call conditions. More information from FAPESP on past and present SPRINT calls can be found here. Questions on the call can be directed to Daphne van de Sande at D.vandeSande@tudelft.nl or Marie Kummerlowe at a.m.kummerlowe@tudelft.nl . SPRINT 2024.2 – Guidelines Delft University of Technology

Cutting-Edge Multi-Camera System for Multi-Modal Data Capture

Researchers from the Intelligent Systems department have built an advanced multi-camera capture system designed for high-quality data collection from objects and people. By incorporating existing audio devices, this system enables the recording of multi-modal data from human social interactions including both video and audio, offering invaluable resources for understanding human behavior, modeling physical objects, and analyzing human-object interactions.

Breaking the bubble in Buitenhof: TU student explores the connecting power of a mural

Op 16 september onthulde burgemeester Marja van Bijsterveld officieel de nieuwe muurschildering ‘Cherished’, op de flat aan de Haydnlaan in Buitenhof. TU Student Virginia Facciotto deed voor haar master ‘Design for Interaction’ een half jaar onderzoek naar de vraag wat de waarde van een mural is voor de wijk: “De muurschildering kan zeker bijdragen aan een positief beeld over de wijk, maar dan moet wel het hele verhaal verteld worden.”

Unconscious Bias session during Summer Introduction Programme (18-22 August 2024)

As part of Summer Introduction Programme , our colleagues Fatima Ait Bari and Stavroula Manolaki of the Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Office gave an engaging presentation on Unconscious bias. The audience consisted of a group of master’s, exchange and bridging students, many from the international community, arriving at TU Delft this academic year 2024-2025. The session had as a goal to take the students along a “journey” of exploring how unconscious biases are formed, how they influence our interactions, and how we can become more aware of them. Participants were encouraged to reflect on their own biases and consider how they hinder their connection with people with diverse perspectives. Through interactive discussions and scientific insights, the presentation emphasized the importance of focusing on shared similarities to foster inclusive relationships. The D&I colleagues guided the students through a thought-provoking journey, helping them take steps toward greater inclusion and understanding in both academic and social environments. The presentation ended with encouraging the students to “Get together on the basis of our similarities; to grow on the basis of our differences”. We wish all new master, exchange and bridging students a successful and enjoyable academic year at TU Delft!

Fresh from Cafe X, not from the delivery service: food deliveries are not allowed

Geen eten bezorgen bij X
We hebben een nieuwe regel opgenomen in de huisregels van X met betrekking tot het nuttigen van afhaalmaaltijden bij X. Het is niet toegestaan om eten te laten bezorgen door een bezorgdienst en dit op het terrein te nuttigen. Je bent natuurlijk wel van harte welkom in Café X voor een hapje en een drankje.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Month 2024

In oktober 2024 viert de TU Delft de EDI-maand met als thema: United for Change, Together We Grow. Gedurende de hele maand biedt het Diversity & Inclusion office in samenwerking met de faculteiten, netwerken en serviceafdelingen workshops, trainingen en andere evenementen georganiseerd door en in de meeste gevallen aangeboden door collega's binnen de TU Delft.