Ocucon has strengthened its team with the appointment of Northumbria University PhD student, Tom Lawrence. In his new role, Tom will help support the development of Ocucon’s artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technology – specifically looking at potential new uses for AI in tackling fraudulent claims for slips, trips and falls, estimated to cost the UK economy more than £800 million a year.
Tom joins the company on a research project funded by ERDF, worth over £130,000 over three years. He recently achieved a first-class degree in Computer Science from Northumbria University.
Tom commented: “My appointment by Ocucon represents a fantastic opportunity to be on the very cutting edge of new technological developments, such as computer vision.”
Gary Trotter, Co-Founder of Ocucon commented: “For technology start-ups like us, finding and fostering talent is hugely important. Tom recently achieved a First-class degree in Computer Science, primarily focused on machine learning and, having someone of his calibre come into the team to help develop our product offering makes a great addition to our already strong development team. But it’s not just fantastic for us as a business – as proud Northerners, we think it’s vital to foster talent in the region too.”
Associate Professor (Reader) and PhD supervisor, Li Zhang from Northumbria University commented; “Partnerships with technology start-ups in the region such as Ocucon are integral to the work of Northumbria University and the development of our students. The North East already possesses a strong technology sector, and partnerships like this allow us to increase the talent pool available whilst giving students like Tom a challenge away from the lecture theatre.”
