Knowledge on Web Scale
The KNowledge on Web Scale (KNoWS) group of IDLab is an experienced team of creative researchers in advanced data technologies. Our mission involves enabling optimal flows of public and protected data between different parties, and our ultimate goal is for data to impact people’s lives positively in ways they choose themselves.
We apply the following expertise and technologies to data problems within and across multiple domains:
- We apply Linked Data and Semantic Web technologies (RDF, RDFS, OWL…) to model complex federated and decentralized scenarios, in which data never resides in a single place.
- We design, implement, and evaluate reasoning (N3, OWL, …) & processing algorithms (federated AI, aggregations, …) (N3, OWL, …) on static datasets as well as data streams, in order to validate and draw conclusions from semantic Linked data, and for detection and reaction to time-critical insights at scale.
- We design, implement, and evaluate Web APIs (HTTP, protocols, REST…) for the exchange of structured data, both at a theoretical–conceptual level and a practical level.
- We design, implement, and evaluate scalable query algorithms (SPARQL, GraphQL, RSP-QL, …) for structured data in decentralized environments.
- We design, implement, and evaluate synchronization, and replication and summarization algorithms for large-scale distributed data ecosystems.
- We transform and enrich data (RML, FnO…) to bridge gaps between heterogeneous systems and data architectures.
- We design, implement, and evaluate data usage control and policy algorithms (ODRL, DPV), bridging between the technological and legal domains.
- We develop standards-based solutions for personal data vaults (Solid) and associated specifications for authentication (OIDC) and authorization (UMA).
Focus domains
In addition to domain-agnostic data technologies, we have an extensive portfolio of applied research and development in domains such as:
- Preventive healthcare & homecare
- Transport and mobility
- logistics
- Cultural Heritage
- Water reuse
- E-government
- Supply chain
- Data governance
- Building management
- Media
- Industry 4.0 / 5.0
- …
Activities and services
- Fundamental, strategic, and applied research
- Contract-based research with academic and industrial partners
- Scientific consultancy for industrial and governmental partners
- Specification and standardization (W3C, SEMIC, IETF…)
Work with us
Our world-class team features renowned experts, who collectively represent in-depth knowledge spanning over 500 peer-reviewed scientific publications. The KNoWS website contains our latest projects, research, news, and more.
