Paula López Diez

I specialize in AI and computational audiology, focusing on developing AI models and multimodal tools for hearing-related data. My work involves creating algorithms that are more personalized, leveraging diverse data sources, such as demographics and various hearing tests. These tools are designed to assist both hearing care professionals and end users in improving hearing care outcomes.

My interest was sparked by a desire to apply my technical engineering knowledge in ways that positively impact human health. During my Master’s in Mathematical Modeling and Computation at DTU, I specialized in machine learning and AI models for healthcare, particularly in medical imaging. I started collaborating with Oticon Medical for my thesis. Cochlear implant therapy and its cutting-edge technology caught my attention and brought me to the hearing care field. I continued in this field during my PhD, also in collaboration with Oticon Medical, where we develop AI-based tools that process CT scans of patients to assist clinicians in different pre-surgical tasks for cochlear implant therapy, with a special focus on assessing children with congenital inner ear malformations.

As a PhD student founded by Willliam Demant Fonden, I attended the Eriksholm Summer School in 2022. There I connected with researchers and learned about Eriksholm’s impactful work. After completing my PhD, the announcement of Eriksholm’s new AI focus area perfectly aligned with my interests, which led me to join the team.

I’m driven by the opportunity to have a positive societal impact through research within the AI field and to do so in collaboration with professionals from different backgrounds. Combining new methods with practical applications that can benefit people’s health and daily lives is deeply rewarding to me. While breakthroughs don’t happen overnight, each step forward brings immense satisfaction.

My goal is to advance AI’s role in hearing care by building reliable, fair, and explainable deep learning models. The field has great potential for improvement, and I hope to contribute to inclusive, unbiased, and highly effective solutions.

I enjoy staying active and social. Depending on the season, I engage in sports such as running and climbing. I also value spending time with friends, often gathering to share meals and good conversations.

The rapid progression of machine learning stands out as the most exciting. The pace of change has been extraordinary, and I am curious and optimistic about its future trajectory.

I hope AI continues to evolve in ways that are fair, safe, and transparent, ensuring it benefits everyone. As AI increasingly influences our lives, it is crucial to prevent potential risks while fostering its democratization for widespread positive impact.