Events in Nottingham

The UKSS Simulation Technology Exhibition is the flagship trade show for the modeling and simulation industry in the UK. This year, the exhibition moves to Nottingham to highlight the region's growing status as a tech hub. This event serves as a comprehensive marketplace for the latest hardware, software, and services driving the simulation industry. From defense and aerospace to entertainment and gaming, simulation technology is the invisible engine of innovation, and this exhibition brings it to the forefront. Exhibitors from across Europe will display the latest in motion platforms, head-mounted displays, and real-time rendering engines. The exhibition floor is designed to be immersive, allowing visitors to test the latest equipment and engage directly with the engineers who built them. Whether you are looking for a new simulation partner for an industrial project or seeking the latest high-end VR gear for a creative endeavor, this exhibition provides the ultimate venue for discovery and procurement. Parallel to the exhibition, a series of "Flash Talks" will take place on the show floor, featuring rapid-fire presentations on emerging trends such as quantum simulation and cloud-based collaborative modeling. This format ensures a dynamic energy throughout the day, keeping the focus on innovation and future-readiness. The event also hosts a "Careers in Simulation" zone, connecting students and job-seekers with the industry’s leading employers. This is the definitive annual event for the simulation community, offering unparalleled opportunities for business development and professional growth in a vibrant, hands-on environment.

The Urban Modeling & Smart City Forum brings together the brightest minds in urban planning, data science, and civil engineering to discuss the digital future of our cities. Hosted in Nottingham, a city renowned for its pioneering green transport initiatives, this forum explores how large-scale simulations are used to design more efficient, sustainable, and livable urban environments. As cities face the twin challenges of population growth and climate change, the ability to model urban dynamics—from traffic flow to energy consumption—has become a fundamental necessity. The forum will detail the use of "Digital Twins" at a city-wide scale. We will look at how Nottingham is using simulation to optimize its tram network and reduce carbon emissions. Experts will present on the "SimCity for Real" approach, where complex algorithms predict the impact of new infrastructure projects before a single brick is laid. This event is a critical gathering for policy makers and developers who need to understand the social and economic implications of smart city technologies. In addition to technical talks, the forum features a dedicated session on data privacy and the ethics of urban surveillance within simulated models. We will discuss how to balance the need for data-driven efficiency with the rights of the citizens. The day concludes with a collaborative session where attendees can provide input on the UKSS Smart City Roadmap for 2030. This is an essential event for anyone invested in the intersection of technology and the built environment, offering a glimpse into the sustainable cities of tomorrow.

The Healthcare Simulation & Training Seminar, organized by the UK Simulation Society, addresses the critical role of simulated environments in modern medical education and patient safety. Set to take place in the heart of Nottingham, this event gathers medical professionals, educators, and technology developers to explore how virtual reality and high-fidelity manikins are transforming the way healthcare staff are trained. In an era where patient safety is paramount, simulation offers a risk-free environment to master complex procedures and refine clinical decision-making. The seminar will feature a series of detailed presentations focusing on the integration of simulation into nursing and surgical curricula. We will discuss the ethics of simulation, the psychological fidelity of virtual patient encounters, and the cost-effectiveness of moving traditional clinical training into the digital realm. This gathering serves as a vital touchpoint for those involved in the procurement of medical tech and the design of educational frameworks within the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Attendees can expect in-depth case studies from leading Nottingham-based medical institutions that have successfully implemented simulation-based competency assessments. The afternoon sessions will involve interactive "sim-labs" where guests can experience the latest haptic feedback tools used in robotic surgery training. By the end of the day, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of the current state of medical simulation in the UK and a clear roadmap for implementing these technologies in their own departments. This event is not just about the tools, but about the people and the protocols that make simulation a life-saving reality.

The UKSS Advanced Simulation Workshop 2026 stands as a premier gathering for professionals and academics dedicated to the evolution of modeling technologies. Hosted in the historic yet technologically vibrant city of Nottingham, this intensive session focuses on the practical application of high-fidelity simulations across various sectors. As the landscape of digital twins and predictive modeling shifts toward more integrated AI-driven frameworks, this workshop provides a necessary platform for hands-on learning and high-level theoretical discussion. Participants will engage with cutting-edge software demonstrations that showcase how simulation can reduce physical prototyping costs and accelerate time-to-market for complex engineering projects. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, ensuring that the methodologies discussed are both innovative and actionable. We will delve into the nuances of stochastic modeling, discrete event simulation, and the integration of real-time data streams into existing simulation architectures. Beyond the technical sessions, the event facilitates a unique environment for peer-to-peer networking. Attendees will have the opportunity to collaborate on problem-solving charrettes, where real-world industry bottlenecks are analyzed through the lens of simulation experts. By attending, you are not just watching a presentation; you are contributing to a collective intelligence aimed at solving the manufacturing and logistical challenges of the next decade. The workshop emphasizes the "Nottingham Initiative," a collaborative effort to localize high-tech simulation resources within the Midlands, fostering a stronger regional bond between universities and private enterprises. This is a must-attend for anyone looking to refine their technical toolkit and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of digital engineering.

The intersection of the legal system and mental health services presents some of the most complex challenges in modern society. The "Forensic Mental Health & Justice Conference," hosted by the Institute of Mental Health, brings together experts from across the criminal justice system and psychiatric services to address these critical issues. This full-day event explores the journey of individuals with mental health disorders from the point of arrest through to secure inpatient care and eventual community reintegration. The conference will feature high-level debates on the Reform of the Mental Health Act and its implications for forensic patients. Expert speakers will present the latest data on personality disorders within the prison estate, the role of trauma-informed care in secure settings, and the efficacy of diversion schemes at the police station level. A special segment of the day is dedicated to "The Rights of the Victim," exploring how the forensic system can balance the rehabilitation of the offender with the safety and support of the victim. In the afternoon, the focus shifts to clinical innovation. We will examine new pharmacological interventions and psychological therapies tailored specifically for high-security environments. This conference is a rare opportunity for legal professionals, including barristers and judges, to engage directly with clinical leads and forensic psychologists. The goal is to foster a more integrated approach to justice and health, reducing recidivism and improving long-term outcomes for some of society's most marginalized individuals. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the legal-clinical interface and a strengthened network of colleagues across both sectors.

The Institute of Mental Health has long been a pioneer in the "Coproduction" movement—the philosophy that research and service design must be conducted with people who have lived experience of mental health challenges, rather than for them. This seminar, titled "Lived Experience and Coproduction," is a deep dive into the practicalities of this transformative approach. It serves as a platform for survivors, researchers, and clinicians to share the stage as equals. The program includes a series of case studies showcasing successful coproduction projects within the Nottinghamshire area. These include the redesign of acute ward environments and the development of peer-led recovery colleges. Speakers will share honest reflections on the challenges of coproduction, including power imbalances, tokenism, and the emotional labor involved in sharing personal narratives for institutional change. The core of the event is a collaborative "Design Lab." Here, attendees will be grouped to solve a hypothetical service-design problem using coproduction principles. This allows professionals to practice the skills of listening and collaborative decision-making in a safe, moderated environment. For researchers, there is a dedicated session on involving public contributors in the earliest stages of grant writing and study design. This seminar is essential for anyone committed to democratizing mental healthcare and ensuring that the voice of the service user remains the loudest in the room. We aim to move beyond theory and provide attendees with a "Coproduction Toolkit" they can implement in their own organizations immediately.

As the digital frontier expands, the Institute of Mental Health is at the forefront of examining how technology intersects with psychological well-being. This intensive workshop, "Digital Innovations in Mental Health," provides a hands-on exploration of the tools currently reshaping the therapeutic landscape. From AI-driven diagnostic assistants to Virtual Reality (VR) exposure therapy, the event offers a comprehensive overview of the technological surge in the UK healthcare sector. The session begins with a critical analysis of current digital health policies and the ethical implications of data privacy in psychiatric settings. Participants will then move into "Experience Zones," where they can trial the latest mental health applications and wearable tech designed for mood tracking and anxiety management. This is not a passive seminar; participants are encouraged to bring their devices and engage with software developers who are building the next generation of NHS-approved digital interventions. The afternoon session focuses on the "Digital Divide," addressing the crucial challenge of ensuring that technological advancements do not leave vulnerable or elderly populations behind. We will discuss strategies for digital inclusion and how to train staff to facilitate tech-based treatments effectively. This workshop is particularly vital for service managers and clinicians who are overseeing the digital transformation of their departments. By the end of the day, attendees will have a robust framework for evaluating new technologies and a clear understanding of the regulatory pathways required to implement these tools in a clinical setting. The Institute of Mental Health remains committed to ensuring that innovation is always balanced with human-centric care.

The Institute of Mental Health is proud to host its premier annual event, the Research Day 2026. This flagship conference serves as a vital nexus for the brightest minds in psychiatric research, clinical practice, and lived experience advocacy. As we navigate the evolving landscape of mental healthcare in the post-pandemic era, this year’s theme focuses on "Translating Discovery into Recovery." The day is meticulously designed to bridge the gap between high-level laboratory findings and the frontline of community mental health services. Attendees can expect a rigorous program featuring three keynote addresses from internationally acclaimed researchers. These sessions will delve into neuroimaging breakthroughs, the efficacy of digital phenotyping, and the socioeconomic determinants of mental health. Beyond the podium, the event hosts an extensive poster competition where PhD students and early-career researchers showcase peer-reviewed data on topics ranging from forensic psychology to geriatric psychiatry. This isn't just a series of lectures; it is an interactive forum. The afternoon breakout sessions allow for granular discussions on methodology and ethics in mental health research. By bringing together the University of Nottingham’s academic prowess and the Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s clinical expertise, the Research Day fosters a unique environment where cross-disciplinary collaboration isn't just encouraged—it's inevitable. Whether you are looking to update your clinical practice with evidence-based findings or seeking a collaborator for your next grant application, this event provides the professional infrastructure to elevate your work. We will conclude the day with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions to mental health literature and a networking reception designed to catalyze new partnerships.

AIVC (AI in Value Chain) focuses on the backbone of the global economy: supply chains and logistics. Nottingham, being a central hub for UK distribution, is the perfect host for this deep dive into industrial efficiency. The conference addresses the critical bottlenecks currently facing global trade and demonstrates how AI-driven forecasting, autonomous warehouse robotics, and blockchain-integrated logistics can build more resilient value chains. The event features heavy participation from the manufacturing and retail sectors. Sessions will cover "Predictive Maintenance" for industrial machinery, showing how sensors and AI can predict a failure weeks before it occurs, saving millions in downtime. Another key focus is "The Last Mile," where AI optimization is being used to reduce carbon emissions and delivery times in urban environments. Attendees will see firsthand how Nottingham-based firms are already implementing these technologies to compete on a global scale. In addition to technical talks, AIVC explores the "Human Factor" in the industrial value chain. As automation increases, the roles of human workers are shifting. Experts will discuss reskilling programs and the collaborative synergy between human expertise and machine precision (Cobotics). The conference concludes with a grand exhibition of autonomous forklifts and delivery drones, providing a tangible look at the future of the UK's industrial landscape. AIVC (AI in Value Chain) focuses on the backbone of the global economy: supply chains and logistics. Nottingham, being a central hub for UK distribution, is the perfect host for this deep dive into industrial efficiency. The conference addresses the critical bottlenecks currently facing global trade and demonstrates how AI-driven forecasting, autonomous warehouse robotics, and blockchain-integrated logistics can build more resilient value chains. The event features heavy participation from the manufacturing and retail sectors. Sessions will cover "Predictive Maintenance" for industrial machinery, showing how sensors and AI can predict a failure weeks before it occurs, saving millions in downtime. Another key focus is "The Last Mile," where AI optimization is being used to reduce carbon emissions and delivery times in urban environments. Attendees will see firsthand how Nottingham-based firms are already implementing these technologies to compete on a global scale. In addition to technical talks, AIVC explores the "Human Factor" in the industrial value chain. As automation increases, the roles of human workers are shifting. Experts will discuss reskilling programs and the collaborative synergy between human expertise and machine precision (Cobotics). The conference concludes with a grand exhibition of autonomous forklifts and delivery drones, providing a tangible look at the future of the UK's industrial landscape.

AIVC (AI in Virtual Classroom) is an essential conference for educators, administrators, and EdTech developers looking to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of digital learning. As schools and universities across the UK integrate Large Language Models and personalized learning algorithms, this event serves as a critical forum for sharing best practices and addressing the challenges of the "AI classroom." The event focuses on how AI can be a tool for empowerment rather than a shortcut for academic dishonesty. The day begins with a deep dive into "Adaptive Learning Paths," where AI adjusts the curriculum in real-time based on a student’s performance and learning style. Keynote speakers from leading global universities will discuss the data behind these technologies and how they are closing the attainment gap for students with learning disabilities. Mid-day sessions will feature "The AI-Assisted Teacher," focusing on how automation can handle grading and administrative tasks, allowing educators to spend more quality time with their students. One of the most anticipated segments of AIVC Nottingham is the "Policy and Integrity" panel. Here, legal experts and academic deans will discuss the development of institutional policies regarding AI usage. The event also hosts a "Tech Sandbox," where attendees can get hands-on experience with the latest VR/AR education tools powered by AI backends. Whether you are a primary school teacher or a university provost, AIVC provides the pedagogical and technical framework to lead in the digital age.

The AIVC (AI in Veterinary Care) symposium is a pioneering event focused on the intersection of veterinary medicine and advanced technology. As the healthcare sector embraces digital transformation, the veterinary field is seeing a surge in AI-powered diagnostics, wearable monitoring devices for livestock and pets, and automated clinical workflows. This event, held in the heart of Nottingham, brings together veterinary surgeons, animal health researchers, and medical technologists to discuss the "silent revolution" happening in clinics across the country. The program is divided into three core pillars: Diagnostics, Management, and Ethics. In the Diagnostics track, experts will present case studies on how AI imaging software is now outperforming traditional methods in detecting early-stage cancers and orthopedic issues in small animals. The Management track focuses on the "Smart Clinic," demonstrating how AI can streamline appointments and manage pharmaceutical inventories. Finally, the Ethics track tackles the complex issues of AI-driven decisions in animal welfare. Participants will have the chance to interact with "Pet-Tech" startups showcasing the latest in smart collars that use machine learning to detect behavioral changes indicating illness before physical symptoms appear. This is not just a theoretical conference; it is a practical roadmap for veterinary practices to modernize their approach. By attending AIVC, professionals will gain the insights needed to implement high-tech solutions that improve patient outcomes while reducing the administrative burden on clinical staff.

The AIVC (AI in Venture Capital) summit in Nottingham is a premier gathering designed to bridge the gap between cutting-edge machine learning research and the high-stakes world of investment. In an era where "AI" is often used as a marketing buzzword, this conference aims to provide a rigorous, data-driven look at how artificial intelligence is genuinely transforming the lifecycle of venture capital. From automated deal sourcing and predictive analytics for market trends to AI-driven due diligence, the event explores how investors can leverage technology to minimize risk and maximize returns. Attendees will spend the day engaging with lead venture capitalists, data scientists, and successful tech founders who have successfully integrated AI into their growth strategies. The morning sessions focus on the "Investor Stack," showcasing proprietary tools used by top-tier firms to parse through thousands of pitch decks. The afternoon shifts toward "The Founder Perspective," detailing how startups can use AI to scale operations, optimize customer acquisition costs, and build defensible moats in a competitive market. Beyond the technical presentations, AIVC Nottingham provides a unique networking ecosystem. The Innovation Hall will feature live demonstrations of AI platforms that can predict startup churn and revenue trajectories with startling accuracy. Whether you are an angel investor looking for the next unicorn or a founder seeking to understand the metrics that matter in the AI age, this event offers the blueprints for success. The conference concludes with a high-level panel discussion on the ethical implications of algorithmic bias in funding, ensuring a holistic view of the future of finance.