We are
ELLIS Unit Madrid
The ELLIS Unit Madrid is a partnership made up of professors and researchers in machine learning from the six public universities in Madrid: Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Universidad de Alcalá, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid and Universidad Rey Juan Carlos.
The goal of the unit is to develop ground-breaking machine learning methods with special focus on interpretability, causality, probabilistic machine learning, analysis of dynamic scenarios and cross-cutting quantum technologies. We also pursue to contribute with the application of these bleeding-edge technologies in areas such as biometrics, computer vision, healthcare, renewable energy, climate, robotics and intelligent vehicles.
Mission
The ELLIS Unit Madrid aims to drive innovative and interpretable AI research that addresses real-world challenges. Bringing together leading researchers from Madrid’s public universities, the unit fosters collaboration, creativity, and talent development across disciplines. By connecting with the broader ELLIS network, it seeks to advance intelligent and sustainable technologies with impact in areas such as healthcare, climate, energy, robotics, and mobility.
Approach
The ELLIS Unit Madrid builds its research on a strong interdisciplinary foundation, combining theoretical advances in probabilistic and causal machine learning with experimental and applied studies in diverse domains. By integrating expertise from computer science, mathematics, engineering, and the natural sciences, the unit develops interpretable and reliable AI methods for dynamic and complex systems. Collaboration across Madrid’s universities and within the European ELLIS network ensures that fundamental research and real-world applications evolve together, fostering innovation grounded in scientific rigor and societal relevance.
Research expertise
The ELLIS Unit Madrid brings together leading experts in artificial intelligence and machine learning from the six public universities of Madrid. Their combined expertise spans theory, algorithms, and real-world applications, creating a vibrant ecosystem of excellence in AI research. By advancing fundamental knowledge in interpretable, probabilistic, and causal learning — and exploring emerging fields such as quantum-based AI or healthcare — the unit contributes to shaping how intelligent technologies transform society. This strong foundation of open, collaborative research empowers Europe to drive innovation, economic growth, and the responsible development of AI.
Overview
25
Members
5
Fellows
4
PhD ELLIS Students
6
Public Universities
History
The ELLIS Unit Madrid was established in June 2022 as part of the European Laboratory for Learning and Intelligent Systems (ELLIS) network. Since its creation, the unit has brought together top researchers from Madrid’s public universities to advance cutting-edge and responsible AI research, strengthening the city’s role as a key hub for scientific excellence in Europe.
Established on June 1st, 2022
with directors Pedro Larrañaga and Concha Bielza
October 2021
The rectors of the universities of the Community of Madrid sign the agreement
February 2023
First PhD ELLIS
More than 20 members ELLIS Unit Madrid
December 2024
ELLIS PhD Meeting and Presentations
December 2024
ELLIS Industry Event
New directors January 1st, 2025
Antonio Artés and Antonio G. Marques
September 2025
Annual ELLIS Meeting
October 2025
Renewal of the unit’s funding by the Regional Government of Madrid