The Helmholtz Foundation Model Initiative (HFMI) was launched in February 2024 to explore how foundation models – AI models trained on large and diverse datasets – can support a broad range of research applications. Coordinated by Helmholtz Imaging and Helmholtz AI, HFMI aims to leverage AI’s potential to improve scientific data analysis and interpretation.

The initiative funds seven pilot projects and a Synergy Unit for cross-cutting activities, with a budget of 11 million euros over three years, plus 12 million euros allocated to infrastructure development. The open-source models developed through HFMI will enable a broader research community to benefit from AI-driven advancements.

Helmholtz Imaging is involved in three of the funded projects: The Human Radiome Project, AqQua, and the Synergy Unit.