I am a Knowledge Transfer Associate and research student in the School of computing, at theRobert Gordon University (RGU). I am working in the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) program. My Industrial partner is ODS-Petrodata (Part of IHS Inc. - April 2011).

Currently, my job consists in leading the development of model-based forecasting tools for the energy industry. I have a DUT and DUIT from Clermont-Ferrand (France), a BSc(hons) and MSc from the School of Computing, Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen (Scotland). I am currently working towards a PhD with the support of the KTP scheme (UK), in association with RGU and ODS-Petrodata Ltd. (Upstream offshore oil and gas industry market intelligence). My research interests include: Bayesian Network Learning and Inference, Recommender Systems, Expert Systems, User Interface, Business Decision Support, Performance Forecasting. My current research focuses on Offshore Drilling Rig Operation Modelling for user Recommendation in the process of Business Decision Making. I am a Member of the Chartered Management Institute(MCMI).

The Robert Gordon University is a dynamic modern University with an international reputation for providing high quality education from Undergraduate to PhD level. RGU holds a diverse and exciting range of degree programmes in Nursing, Business, Law, Engineering, Science, Computing, Art, Design, Architecture, Pharmacy and Health Sciences, all taught in state-of-the-art facilities. The Times Good University Guide 2009 and 2011 named RGU as the best modern university in the UK. RGU is also The Sunday Times Scottish University of the Year 2011. 

ODS-Petrodata is delivering high-quality market intelligence, data, publications and analysis tools to the upstream oil and gas industry. They have been providing market intelligence to the upstream offshore oil and gas industry since 1973. In addition to their data, forecast and news products, ODS-Petrodata offers web-based tools for tracking and analyzing the offshore rig, field development, marine and renewable energy markets. Since April 2011, they are part of IHS Inc.

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships is a UK-wide programme to encourage business and knowledge base collaborations. Knowledge Transfer Partnerships help businesses and organisations to improve their competitiveness and productivity through the use of the knowledge, technology and skills that reside within academic institutions. Funded by Government organisations led by the Technology Strategy Board, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships involve the forming of a partnership between a company and an academic institute, enabling you to lead rewarding and ongoing collaborations with innovative businesses that require access to skills and expertise to help their company develop. 

Following the completion of my current project in early October 2011. I will be considering challenging and competitive opportunities allowing me to continue the development of innovative systems and to continuously improve user experiences related to computing. I can be contacted at f.a.fournier@gmail.com (other contact details available at francoisfournier.tel).