DERI Research Day: AI at QMUL: From Foundations to Societal Impact
When: Thursday, May 7, 2026, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Where: Arts Two Building
, Mile End Campus, Queen Mary University of London
Speaker: Keynote speaker Lord Holmes of Richmond MBE
Queen Mary University of London’s Digital Environment Research Institute (DERI), brings together world-leading researchers to drive new multidisciplinary advances in data science and artificial intelligence. Join us for a day of talks, discussions, and networking exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming research, industry, and society.
The programme brings together leading academics, industry experts, and early-career researchers to share insights across a range of AI applications — from health and digital twins to natural systems and responsible AI.
âĄWe are also delighted to welcome industry partners NVIDIA and Dell, who will share their perspectives on emerging AI technologies and how advances in computing infrastructure are enabling new possibilities for research and innovation.
What to Expect đ¤
The day begin with a keynote, industry talks, short presentations from QMUL academics, and lightning talks from early-career researchers.
After lunch participants will be able to join themed breakout discussions on key areas of AI research, view research demonstrations, and explore poster presentations showcasing work from across the university.
Keynote Speaker is Lord Holmes of Richmond MBE
A leading advocate for harnessing digital technology for the public good, Lord Holmes focuses on emerging fields such as AI and blockchain. His work spans key areas of innovation and application, including FinTech, GovTech, RegTech, Assistive Technology, and EdTech.
Title: AI – A fundamentally human endeavour
The breakout sessions include:
đĨ AI for Human Health and Life Sciences
Chaired by Venet Osmani, Caroline Roney, Michael Barnes
đ AI for Natural & Engineered Systems
Chaired by Cédric John, Mona Jaber
âī¸ Responsible, Creative & Societal AI
Chaired by Gina Neff, David Leslie
Our event will conclude with a panel discussion featuring industry perspectives from NVIDIA and Dell, followed by a đ poster awards ceremony and đĨ drinks reception.
QM speakers include đ
Claude Chelala, Professor of Bioinformatics at the Barts Cancer Institute
Sean Gong, Professor of Visual Computation in the School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science
Guan Tang, Reader in Commercial Law at the Centre for Commercial Law Studies
Detailed agenda and book your place on Eventbrite
Call for Posters đĸ
PhD students, Research Associates, and Research Technicians are invited to showcase their research by presenting posters on data science and AI-related topics
.Apply to present a poster at the DERI Research Day 2026 by completing the submission form: Application to present a poster at the DERI Research Day 2026 – Fill in form
Event Details đ
đ Location: Arts Two Building, Mile End Campus, Queen Mary University of London – map here
âŗ Date & Time: Thursday 7 May, 09:00 – 16:30 (followed by a drinks reception)
đ Registration: Book your place on Eventbrite
Morning-only or afternoon-only attendance options are available when booking.
Additional Information âšī¸
Food: đĨ A selection of vegan, gluten-free, and halal options will be available.
Please email deri@qmul.ac.uk if you have any additional dietary requirements.
Accessibility: âŋThe venue is wheelchair accessible . If you have any accessibility requirements, please let us know when registering.
Transport: Mile End Tube station is a 5-minute walk, with Central, District, Hammersmith and City Lines. TFL Plan a journey.
Bike parks are available throughout the campus đ´
We look forward to seeing you at the event in May.