Technophilosophy September Soiree: Will AI be the next great scientist?
About this Event
Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming a powerful tool for scientific research—helping scientists analyze vast datasets, design experiments, generate hypotheses, and even discover new materials and medicines. But could AI fundamentally change how scientific discoveries are made?
Can an AI system genuinely make a discovery, or does discovery require human understanding? How will AI reshape the role of scientists and the scientific method itself? How can we ensure that these systems advance science without reproducing biases, obscuring uncertainty, or undermining public trust?
Join us for an evening conversation exploring these questions. The 2026 September Soiree on Technophilosophy will bring together leading thinkers from neuroscience, chemistry, computer science, and philosophy. “Technophilosophy” asks philosophical questions about technology—and considers how emerging technologies can help us answer enduring philosophical questions.
Together, , , , , and will explore the promises, limits, and ethical implications of AI in scientific research and discovery.
Join us at the Isabel Bader Theatre, next to the Museum Subway Station. Food, beverages, and thought-provoking discussion provided.
Venue: Isabel Bader Theatre | 93 Charles St W, Toronto, ON M5S 2C7
- Registration & pre-event reception: 4:30 PM ET
- Event start: 5:30 PM ET
This is a special in-person only event.
FREE registration for students: use code IHPST
For more information go to .
Speakers:
- (University of Toronto, Institute for the History & Philosophy of Science & Technology)
- (University of Toronto, Department of Chemistry)
- (Stanford University, Department of Philosophy)
- (Northeastern University, Department of Philosophy and Religion and Khoury College of Computer Sciences)
- (Northeastern University, Department of Philosophy and Religion and Khoury College of Computer Sciences)
Sponsors:
- , University of Toronto
- , University of Toronto
- , University of Toronto
About the Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society
Located at the University of Toronto, the Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society’s mission is to deepen our knowledge of technologies, societies, and what it means to be human by integrating research across traditional boundaries and building human-centred solutions that really make a difference. The integrative research we conduct rethinks technology’s role in society, the contemporary needs of human communities, and the systems that govern them. We’re investigating how best to align technology with human values and deploy it accordingly. The human-centred solutions we build are actionable and practical, highlighting the potential of emerging technologies to serve the public good while protecting citizens and societies from their misuse. We want to make sure powerful technologies truly make the world a better place—for everyone.
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Agenda
🕑: 04:30 PM - 05:30 PM
Registration and pre-event reception
Info: Registration opens. Ticket holders will line up to check in at registration before enjoying some light refreshments ahead of the event.
🕑: 05:30 PM - 06:20 PM
Moderated Q&A with disscussants
Info: Karina Vold will begin with introductions to and questions for guest speakers Alán Aspuru-Guzik, Rosa Cao, Kathleen Creel and Sina Fazelpour.
🕑: 06:20 PM - 07:00 PM
Moderated Q&A with audience
Info: All speakers will engage in Q&A with the audience who will have the chance to ask a question to the speakers directly through the platform Slido.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 5.00
