Hybrid Research Acceleration
About this Event
The University of Leeds is bringing together students, researchers, digital research professionals, industry partners and innovators for a day focused on one question:
How can advanced computing, AI and hybrid infrastructure accelerate the next generation of research?
Working alongside Softcat, HPE, Microsoft and IBM, this event will explore how emerging technologies and research infrastructure can help address some of the most ambitious challenges facing academia today. Through a series of presentations and discussions, attendees will explore the continuum of computing innovation, from established capabilities in AI, accelerated computing, and cloud infrastructure to the emerging promise of quantum computing.
The event will focus on what these capabilities enable in practice. Grounded in advances in computing infrastructure, the discussions will highlight how they can be applied across different areas such as medical imaging, genomics, climate and sustainability, and materials discovery to tackle larger challenges, analyse more complex datasets, develop new methodologies, and accelerate discovery.
Whether you are already using advanced computing or exploring its potential, this event offers a chance to learn from leading technology partners, discover new possibilities, and help shape the future of research and innovation. The event welcomes participants from beyond the University, regardless of background or level of experience.
Register Here: Lightning Pitches
Lightning Pitches – Bold Ideas for Accelerated Research
As part of Hybrid Research Acceleration, attendees will have the opportunity to pitch an ambitious research concept inspired by the challenge:
"What could you accomplish with unlimited accelerated computing power?"
During the Lightning Pitches session, up to eight participants will present their ideas live to the audience, with a panel of experts from the University of Leeds and leading technology partners selecting a winner.
We are looking for visionary ideas that demonstrate how advanced computing could increase the impact, ambition or reach of research. Whether your work aims to tackle major scientific challenges, unlock new discoveries, develop innovative methodologies or create real-world impact, we want to hear your ideas.
The winning pitch will receive a premium technology prize provided by our industry partners, recognising the most compelling vision for accelerated research.
Submissions are welcome from attendees of any discipline, career stage, organisation or institution.
Interested in participating? Submit your proposal using the Lightning Pitch submission form by 30 June 2026:
Register Here: Lightning Pitches
Agenda
🕑: 09:30 AM - 09:45 AM
Arrival & Networking
🕑: 09:45 AM - 10:00 AM
Welcome & Objectives
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:25 AM
The Case for Hybrid Research Infrastructure
Host: Softcat
🕑: 10:25 AM - 10:55 AM
On-Premises Research Excellence
Host: HPE × NVIDIA
🕑: 10:55 AM - 11:10 AM
Break – Coffee and informal discussions
🕑: 11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
Hybrid Data & AI with Microsoft – Strengthening On Prem Research Environments
🕑: 11:40 AM - 12:00 PM
Emerging Frontiers in Research
Host: IBM Quantum
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Lunch & Collaboration Zone
🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Lightning Pitches – Bold Ideas for Accelerated Research
🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:20 PM
Break – Coffee and informal discussions
🕑: 02:20 PM - 02:30 PM
Winning pitch revealed - Closing Remarks & Next Steps
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
