CoE RAISE Project's All Hands Meeting in Iceland: A Successful Gathering of Partners
Reykjavik, Iceland - The CoE RAISE project recently concluded its All Hands Meeting, a collaborative event held from August 28 to 30, 2023, in the picturesque surroundings of Hveragerði, Iceland. The meeting brought together 33 colleagues from 10 partner organizations, providing a platform for in-depth discussions, progress reports, and the exploration of future activities within the project.
The team in front of the conference hotel
The gathering took place at the inviting Hotel ORK, nestled amidst the landscapes of Hveragerði. Over the course of three days, the task leader had the opportunity to present their respective Work Packages (WP) and share their progress.
After the welcoming speech of the project manager Andreas Lintermann, the first day of the meeting was dedicated to the presentations of Work Packages 1 to 3, highlighting key developments and milestones achieved in these areas. A great deal of attention was paid to the Unique AI Framework, which will be further expanded in the coming months. In the evening, attendees convened at Róskaffi, a local establishment, for an informal exchange, fostering camaraderie among the group. For some participants it was the first time they met in person, others were already familiar with each other from the last AHM.
Meeting room (Day 1)
Social event at the Róskaffi
On the second day, the focus shifted to Work Packages 4 to 6, where colleagues presented their findings and engaged in insightful discussions. The atmosphere throughout the event remained harmonious, with participants contributing to meaningful conversations and generating fresh ideas for the project's final stages.
Amidst the productive meetings, attendees had the chance to explore the small village and experience the unique charm of Hveragerði. The other part of the group took the opportunity and relaxed in the hot tubs.
Meeting room (Day 2)
Dinner at the Frost & Fire Hotel
The second evening was capped off with a delightful three-course meal at Frost & Fire, adding a culinary highlight to the event. It provided participants with a chance to relax and unwind after a busy day of collaboration and exploration.
The final day of the All Hands Meeting culminated in a group hike to the remarkable Reykjadalur hot spring where a cold and hot river meet, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation. The serene location allowed attendees to connect with nature and enjoy a moment of tranquility before concluding the meeting.
Some impressions of the hiking tour
As the event drew to a close, participants bid farewell to Hveragerði and returned to Reykjavik. Some embarked on their journeys homeward, while others joined Eric Sumner for a visit to his acoustic lab, gaining insight into his groundbreaking work in the field.
3D ear scan at the acoustic lab
Animated 3D scan
The CoE RAISE project's All Hands Meeting in Iceland proved to be a resounding success, fostering collaboration, innovation, and a strong sense of community among its partners. It marked a significant step forward in advancing the project's objectives and set the stage for continued success in the future.
We would like to extend a big thank you to Katrin and Morris for making the stay run smoothly and making it memorable.