Hi there, I’m Ben! 👋

As a researcher trained in mathematics, philosophy, and computer science, I am comfortable crossing the boundaries of traditional disciplines. Drawing on diverse perspectives and scholarship, I strive to make contributions across fields, and in particular to the transdisciplinary understanding of machine learning systems in society. My research focuses on the plausibility and impact of mathematical assumptions and technical modelling choices of ‘AI’ systems in social contexts.

Before my PhD, I have worked a little on moral psychology, philosophy of science, causal discovery, XAI, and efficient training of large ML models (see my publications).

My background

I initially studied maths (with physics) and then also philosophy (with literature and languages) in Munich, inevitably leading to a master’s in mathematical philosophy at the MCMP. After that, I completed a master’s in computer science in Oxford, with a focus on machine learning. I continued to work there with the OATML group as a research assistant, mostly on coding-heavy projects such as active learning with LLMs. I started my PhD in Tübingen with Bob Williamson in September 2022. As an ELLIS PhD student, I am co-supervised by Nuria Oliver in Alicante, where I spent the winter 2024/25.

Other

In the service of science more broadly, I am also engaged in efforts to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration (developing an app), increase the visibility of female and non-binary scientists (organising Soapbox Science Tübingen), and support well-being in academia (as a mental health first aider, a ‘confidant’ contact person in the Tübingen AI community, and a promoter of mental health awareness).

Outside of work, I enjoy (among other things) literature, music, travelling (especially to visit friends), and all sorts of sports.