Intelligent Data Analysis in Science
Preface

Intelligent Data Analysis in Science, Hugh Cartwright (ed.). Oxford University Press, Oxford, England. 2000. 205 pp + xiv. ISBN 0-19-850233-8.

That computers have revolutionized scientific research is beyond doubt. Calculations can now be carried out at speeds that would have been unimaginable a few decades ago. However, just as crucially, computers have opened up a new world of analysis through the development of intelligent methods.

Computer programs employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) are enjoying a period of explosive growth. AI programs can now be found embedded in scientific instruments, taking control of industrial production lines and built into a wide variety of commercially-available software. AI constitutes a set of tools of great versatility and power, and this is well illustrated by the contributions to this text, which brings together some of the leading researchers in this emerging field.

Each chapter includes theory, practical details of implementation and the application of AI to the solution of real scientific problems. The extensive lists of references at the end of each chapter will be indispensable to all those who are encouraged to explore the subject further.

The potential of AI in science is immense. The methods and applications discussed in this text will consequently be of wide interest to those both in the physical and natural sciences and in mainstream AI research.

Hugh Cartwright, Oxford 1999