Athens Institute for Engineering, Law & Policy in Emerging Technologies (AIELPET)
General mission:
The Athens Institute for Engineering, Law & Policy in Emerging Technologies (AIELPET) operates under the auspices of NETMODE Laboratory, which is established within the School of Electrical & Computer Engineering of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA).
AIELPET is an interdisciplinary Institute located in Athens, focusing on the integration of electrical and computer engineering with legal, and policy expertise in the realms of artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, cybersecurity in critical infrastructure, knowledge and data analysis, the Internet of Things (IoT) and other emerging technologies. It bridges electrical and computer engineering with legal expertise to ensure the safe, secure and lawful development of AI, robotics, and IoT systems. By providing interdisciplinary research, education, and compliance/consulting services, the Institute contributes to the responsible development and governance of emerging technologies in alignment with International and European technical, legal and ethical standards.
Fostering interdisciplinary collaboration – Research, Development, Consulting:
There is a growing need for integrating technical and legal expertise to address the multifaceted challenges posed by emerging technologies. To this end, the Institute creates collaborative platforms where electrical and computer engineers and legal experts can co-develop research projects and conduct international studies, ensuring that technological innovations are informed by legal and ethical considerations from inception.
The Institute conducts cutting-edge research at the intersection of technology and law, focusing on areas such as AI, robotics, cybersecurity, data analytics, IoT and other emerging fields to drive societal progress. By integrating engineering, law, and policy expertise, AIELPET positions itself to actively contribute to and lead projects (including design, optimization and management) that address the multifaceted challenges posed by emerging technologies.
The Institute also provides expert consulting services to public and private organisations (and governments) offering insights that bridge technological innovation with legal compliance and policy considerations. For instance, it offers services related to projects involving AI, robotics, IoT, and other emerging technologies, as well as cybersecurity for critical infrastructure. These services include implementation and compliance initiatives, conformity and risk assessments, and the conduct of relevant studies. The Institute implements and supports compliance programs and projects that ensure emerging technologies meet established technical, legal and ethical standards throughout their lifecycle.
Contributing to policy development – Policy formulation:
The Institute enhances understanding of the dual risks and benefits of AI, robotics and other emerging technologies (including the rapidly evolving challenges related to cybersecurity in critical infrastructure), aiming to improve coordination and governance.
In particular:
- It assists policymakers in understanding and navigating rapidly advancing technologies, by providing comprehensive reports and hosting events to bridge the gap between technology, policy and regulation.
- It engages in the drafting of studies and policy recommendations that guide the responsible development and deployment of emerging technologies, influencing both national and international laws and regulations.
- It establishes partnerships with governmental bodies, industry stakeholders, and international organisations to influence policy development and ensure that research outcomes have practical applications.
- It explores the rapidly evolving intersection of emerging technologies and the law through events and academic offerings. It aims at bringing together academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss technology, law and relevant policy and governance issues