Space Robotics: Automating the the Final Frontier One Step at a Time
Robots and autonomous systems have always had an essential place in the exploration and exploitation of space, and the emergence of the “NewSpace” economy and critical applications such as Debris Mitigation, On-Orbit Servicing, and In-Space Manufacturing and Assembly are now driving rapid, new innovations in the technologies that we deploy to Earth’s orbit, moons and planets. Through a series of European and Worldwide funded projects, innovations are gradually ongoing in modular, open and re-usable hardware and software to enable “Ecosystems” of autonomous space robots and satellites to operate together alongside or in place of Humans. A few of these projects will be presented in this keynote as well as some essential technologies that have been spun out or co-developed for terrestrial use in other applications, focusing on modular and bio-inspired robots for use on Earth and in Space.
Mark A. Post received his B.A.Sc. in electrical engineering from the University of Toronto in 2004, and his M.Sc. in ultrasonic material analysis and Ph.D. in space robotics from York University, Canada in 2008 and 2014 respectively. His research focuses on development of modular, adaptable, and autonomous systems, robots and vehicles for challenging environments and has he has led projects that created autonomous agricultural crop data gathering vehicles, sensor fusion and modular reconfiguration systems for satellites and planetary rovers, flexible morphologies for bio-inspired land and water robots, and self-aware, self-configuring autonomous robot modules capable of intelligent knowledge-based adaptation. From 2014-2018 he was a Lecturer at the University of Strathclyde. He joined the University of York in January 2019 and is now a Senior Lecturer in the School of Physics, Engineering and Technology Intelligent Systems and Robotics group. His research interests and experience include modular design, machine vision for navigation and recognition, autonomous control, sensor data fusion and mapping methods, semantic probabilistic learning and reasoning methods, and reliable and efficient bio-inspired tensegrities for robots.
Failing forward matters in a PhD - embrace it!
Most PhD candidates strive for 'the perfect PhD', often struggling to reach their own expectations and ultimately finding their work impossible to face. Embracing failure during a PhD can significantly enhance personal growth, resilience, and future success. This talk explores how stigmatised setbacks can serve as powerful learning opportunities. By reframing failure as essential to discovery, researchers are able to unlock new potential, creativity, and innovation. Drawing from personal experiences and practical insights, you will understand why "failing forward" fosters greater adaptability, stronger problem-solving abilities, and ultimately leads to more impactful academic and professional achievements - and why industry prefer to employ researchers who have experienced failure!
Louise graduated from the University of Nottingham in 2011 with a PhD in Materials Engineering and Materials Design, after which she secured a 4 year post-doc position working on biomechanics of the human spine. Fast forward 10 years, alongside her teaching duties at the University of Hull she is now working with industry to design and develop new wound healing technologies. Working closely with market leaders such as Smith+Nephew, Reckitts, Johnson&Johnson, and Advanced Medical Solutions, has allowed her to not only publish papers, but also establish IP, influence market direction, have input into NHS policies, and most importantly improve the quality of life of millions of patients who suffer from chronic wounds.
In addition to her academic and research roles, she is an active member of the Institute for Mechanical Engineers, she volunteers with a charity called REMAP, and is an advocate for promoting Women in Engineering through local and national initiatives.
Thermoacoustics: Concepts and Applications of Sound and Heat
This talk will explore the fascinating field of thermoacoustics where sound and heat interact in powerful and unexpected ways. Beginning with a foundational overview, the session will explain key principles that underpin thermoacoustic phenomena and devices. It will then showcase real-world examples such as thermoacoustic engines and refrigerators, illustrating how these systems convert thermal energy into acoustic energy and vice versa. The talk will highlight a range of potential applications, from sustainable energy systems and industrial waste heat recovery to off-grid refrigeration and space technologies. Alongside the promise of these innovations, the session will also address the technical challenges that currently limit wider adoption, including efficiency constraints and materials considerations.
Dr Ahmed Hamood is a Senior Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Huddersfield. He received his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Leeds, where he specialised in thermoacoustics. His research has continued with an EPSRC-funded project in this field, focusing on the development of novel thermoacoustic technologies. He has also contributed in industrial projects, including work on thermoacoustic waste heat recovery systems. Dr Hamood’s research interests include thermoacoustics, thermofluids, heat transfer, fluidic systems, and waste heat recovery. His work explores both fundamental principles and applied engineering solutions, particularly in sustainable energy and innovative thermal technologies. Beyond research, Dr Hamood is passionate about teaching and problem-based learning approach to engage students with real-world engineering challenges. He aims to foster curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in his students, equipping them with both knowledge and a mindset for innovation.
Empowering AI with Human Insight: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in Responsible, Trustworthy, and Participatory AI Development
Creating responsible and trustworthy AI requires more than technical expertise—it calls for ethical awareness, legal foresight, and public engagement. This talk explores Participatory AI, an inclusive approach that involves communities, users, and stakeholders throughout the AI lifecycle. By embedding transparency, collaboration, and shared ownership into development, participatory methods align AI with societal values. Drawing on real-world projects that connect academia, industry, and the public, the talk highlights how ethical toolkits and co-production practices empower citizens, support research, and guide businesses. These approaches build public trust and lead to AI systems that are more robust, inclusive, and ethically grounded.
Keeley Crockett SMIEEE, SFHEA, is a Professor in Computational Intelligence at Manchester Metropolitan University with over 27 years of experience in ethical and responsible AI, computational intelligence, fuzzy systems, psychological profiling, and dialogue systems. She has championed citizen voice in AI, led place-based AI initiatives, and co-authored the UK parliamentary inquiry report "Our Place Our Data." As an EPSRC Public Engagement Champion, she is Principal Investigator on “PEAs in Pods”—a project co-producing community-based public engagement in data and AI research. Keeley co-founded the People Panel for AI, supported by The Alan Turing Institute and Manchester City Council. She contributes to several Innovate UK Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, including work with GMCA, and serves on the UK Government Inquiry on Skills in the Age of AI. She also collaborates with the UK Digital Cabinet Office and contributed to the 2025 AI Playbook. Internationally, Keeley is part of the Agentic AI Safety Experts Focus Group, helping develop Guidelines for Agentic AI Safety (2024, 2025). She sits on UKRI’s AI & Robotics Strategic Advisory Team and the EPSRC SAN on EDI, is an elected member of the IEEE CIS ADCOM, and chaired the IEEE SHIELD Committee (2022–24). She now chairs the IEEE AI Coalition’s Responsible AI Subcommittee.