The key topic of the Information Universe (IU) conference series is: “What is the role of information in the Universe and its description?”. In an epoch where scientists need to handle big data and simulations, find highly organized systems in nature and grapple with the role of information in physics and other sciences, this appears to be one of the more fundamental questions that need to be answered in order to understand the world around us. We approach the key role of information from the point of view of several disciplines, such as cosmology, physics, mathematics, life sciences, computational science and neuroscience. In this way, the Information Universe conference intends to unite various approaches, addressing the fundamental role of information both in nature (“in vivo”) and in data analysis, theory and computer modelling (“in vitro”).

This 2020 edition is divided into three main disciplines, each with its own outstanding keynote speakers:

1. Cosmology and Fundamental Physics

•  The ΛCDM tension, Euclid and the Dark Universe
      Keynote speakers: Tamara Davis, Ruth Durrer, Wendy Freedman, Léon Koopmans
• Emergent gravity and space-time: a unified theory based on information
      Keynote speaker: Erik Verlinde

2. The future of computing: exploring new pathways

• Quantum computing, neuromorphic computing and machine learning
      Keynote speaker: Herbert Jaeger
• Open Space: Data visualization for a new generation
      Keynote speaker: Carter Emmart

3. Life Science and Complexity

• Complexity and chaos in nature and computers
      Keynote speakers: Jim Crutchfield, Peter Sloot
• Life sciences: the overwhelming complexity of nature
      Keynote speaker: Charley Lineweaver

In addition there will be a conference dinner, (at least) one public evening, and a panel discussion at the end of the conference.

Best Regards,

Scientific Organizing Committee
Prof. Dr. Edwin Valentijn – Kapteyn Astronomical Institute, University of Groningen
Prof. Dr. Rien van de Weijgaert – Kapteyn Astronomical Institute, University of Groningen
Dr. Margot Brouwer – Kapteyn Astronomical Institute, University of Groningen
Dr. Charley Lineweaver – Planetary Science Institute, Australian National University
Dr. Alessandra Silvestri – Lorentz Institute for theoretical physics, Leiden University
Prof. Dr. Peter Sloot – The Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam

Local Organizing Committee
Dr. Margot Brouwer – Kapteyn Astronomical Institute, University of Groningen
Communication Officer Maddalena Munari – Kapteyn Astronomical Institute, University of Groningen
Dr. Rees Williams – Center for Information Technology, University of Groningen