How can AI help us uncover the secrets of the past? One of the innovators recognized by MIT Technology Review is exploring the answer.

Yannis Assael is an AI researcher at Google DeepMind whose work explores how artificial intelligence can solve problems once considered beyond the reach of technology, from understanding human speech to recovering lost knowledge from ancient texts. 

In 2023, Yannis Assael was recognized as one of MIT Technology Review’s Innovators Under 35 Europe, joining a community of young researchers, entrepreneurs and technological pioneers working to push the boundaries of innovation. 

Selected in the Artificial Intelligence & Robotics category, Assael was recognized for his contributions to machine learning and his work exploring new applications of artificial intelligence. 

His journey has taken him from the University of Macedonia to Oxford, Imperial College London and eventually Google DeepMind. His research has attracted international attention, including recognition in the scientific journal Nature. 

Among his contributions is the application of AI to damaged ancient texts, helping researchers recover information that might otherwise remain inaccessible. His work illustrates how advances in artificial intelligence can connect seemingly distant fields, from computer science to archaeology and cultural heritage. 

As part of our IU35 Voices series, we reconnect with Yannis Assael, one of the innovators recognized in 2023, to hear his perspective on the Innovators Under 35 experience and what it means to be part of this international community. 

Watch his story now.