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Exploring the Future of AI: Highlights from the CDT 2025 Showcase
By Claire Hudson, on 21 August 2025
Poster Session
Last month, students, researchers, and industry leaders gathered for an inspiring three-day CDT Showcase to explore cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and their applications across society. The event combined academic talks, poster sessions, interactive activities, and social events, creating a vibrant environment for learning and collaboration.
The Summer School opened with a lively icebreaker and networking session, setting the tone for three days of exchange and exploration.
Prof Marc Deisenroth
A thought-provoking discussion chaired by Prof Marc Deisenroth examined AI for Environment and Sustainability. Following a presentation by Marc, delegates were divided into groups and tasked with exploring and reporting back on topics, including ‘Where do you see potential for AI transformation in environmental modelling’ and ‘Where do you see potential for AI transformation in sustainable energy’. This was a great opening session, encouraging participants to reflect on the role of technology in tackling global challenges!
Later, keynote speaker Dave Palfrey, Chief Scientist at MindMage gave a fascinating talk on code modularity and division of labour, drawing parallels between human collaboration and the way we design AI systems. The final talk was CDT researcher David Chanin’s work on improving sparse autoencoders.
Dave Palfrey
The day concluded with a poster exhibition showcasing the breadth of student research, before delegates headed to an escape room social event in central London – a perfect chance to test teamwork skills outside of the showcase!
What stood out wasn’t just the technical brilliance, but the passion behind each project. Every student showed how their research connects to real-world issues, whether it’s making AI safer, more ethical, or more efficient.
UCL East’s Intelligent Robotics Lab
The final day featured an exclusive tour of UCL East’s Intelligent Robotics Lab, where our guests learned how AI and robotics are being applied to fields such as autonomous vehicles, sustainable agriculture, and industrial inspection.
The afternoon’s talks tackled major questions around the future of AI research. Highlights included Reuben Adams on AI safety and the automation of AI research, Laura Ruis on how large language models learn reasoning skills, and
Prof. Tim Rocktäschel
Prof. Tim Rocktäschel with his ICLR keynote on open-endedness and the automation of innovation. These sessions pushed participants to think critically about the pace of AI development and its long-term implications.
In addition to the academic programme, the Showcase featured a Programmed Art Competition, showcasing creative intersections between AI and art, alongside awards for the best posters. Both activities generously sponsored by G-Research.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 CDT Showcase was a testament to the energy, creativity, and vision of the AI research community. From student-led breakthroughs to expert insights on sustainability, safety, and innovation, the event highlighted both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with shaping the future of AI.
Best Poster and Programmed Art Prizewinners