OMM Newsroom
Dutch professor Jan Rotmans, who has terminal cancer, is developing an artificial intelligence version of himself to preserve his knowledge and give lectures after his death, Anadolu Agency reported, citing Dutch public broadcaster NOS.
The 65-year-old professor of transition studies plans to create the digital twin using his books, scientific publications and recorded lectures. An initial online version is expected to be available by the end of 2026, with a hologram that could appear on stage planned for a later stage.
Recordings of Rotmans’ voice, image and facial expressions have already been made for the project, which is being developed by the studio “The Synths”. The studio previously created a digital likeness of former Dutch footballer Ruud Gullit.
Rotmans has had metastatic prostate cancer for nearly two years. He said his condition was stable and that recent medical results had been encouraging. He also hopes to interact with his AI counterpart and learn from its responses.
The professor acknowledged that the technology could produce inaccurate information or statements he would not endorse. He said the system would undergo extensive testing before being made available.
AI expert warns of risks
Iris van Rooij, an artificial intelligence professor at Radboud University, criticized the project and called it an undesirable development.
Van Rooij warned that people interacting with digital models could mistakenly attribute human qualities, including emotions and intelligence, to AI systems.
Rotmans said the digital twin was not intended to replace him personally, but to keep his knowledge accessible to future generations. He said he accepted the potential risks and expected other researchers to pursue similar projects.
