Events in Nottingham

The SPLV'26 Summer School is a premier educational event organized by the Scottish Informatics and Computer Science Alliance (SICSA). Bringing together leading researchers, academics, software engineers, and postgraduate students, this five-day workshop offers an immersive learning experience focused on programming languages, software verification, formal methods, and dependable software engineering. The event aims to strengthen research collaboration while providing participants with practical knowledge that can be applied to modern software development challenges. Hosted at the University of St Andrews, the summer school combines expert-led lectures, practical workshops, collaborative discussions, and networking opportunities. Participants will gain insights into cutting-edge research while exploring how advanced programming techniques improve software quality, security, and reliability. Why Attend SPLV'26? SPLV'26 provides an exceptional opportunity for professionals and researchers to stay updated with the latest developments in programming language theory and software verification. As software systems become increasingly complex, ensuring correctness, security, and performance has never been more important. Attendees will learn from internationally respected researchers who have contributed significantly to compiler technology, static analysis, formal verification, automated reasoning, and software engineering. Every session is designed to bridge academic research with practical software development. The event also promotes collaboration between universities and industry, allowing participants to exchange ideas, discuss emerging technologies, and establish valuable professional connections. Explore Modern Programming Language Research Programming languages continue to evolve to meet the demands of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and distributed systems. SPLV'26 introduces attendees to the latest innovations in language design, compiler optimization, type systems, and language semantics. Participants will explore topics including: Programming language theory Functional programming Type systems Compiler design Language semantics Static program analysis Runtime optimization Domain-specific languages Experts will explain how these technologies improve software development while reducing programming errors and increasing maintainability. Learn Software Verification Techniques Software verification plays a critical role in developing reliable applications used in healthcare, finance, aerospace, transportation, telecommunications, and government systems. During the event, participants will discover how verification methods help identify software defects before deployment. Sessions cover various approaches that improve software correctness through mathematical reasoning and automated analysis. Topics include: Formal verification Model checking Theorem proving Symbolic execution Static verification Program correctness Safety-critical software Automated testing Hands-on demonstrations allow attendees to apply these techniques using modern verification tools and research software. Hands-on Workshops and Interactive Learning Unlike traditional conferences, SPLV'26 places strong emphasis on practical learning. Interactive workshops enable participants to experiment with verification tools, programming environments, and software analysis frameworks. During these sessions attendees can: Solve real-world software engineering challenges. Practice verification techniques. Build small research projects. Collaborate with experts. Receive individual guidance from instructors. This practical approach helps participants understand how theoretical concepts can be applied within professional software development environments. Expert Speakers and Academic Excellence SPLV'26 features presentations from internationally recognized researchers working in computer science and software engineering. The speaker lineup includes experts specializing in: Programming languages Formal methods Compiler construction Secure software development Distributed systems Artificial intelligence Automated reasoning Dependable computing Their presentations combine academic research with practical case studies, providing attendees with valuable insights into current research trends and future technological developments. Networking Opportunities Networking remains one of the strongest benefits of attending SPLV'26. Participants will have opportunities to connect with: University researchers Industry professionals PhD students Academic supervisors Software engineers Discussion sessions, coffee breaks, collaborative activities, and informal gatherings encourage participants to build long-term professional relationships that often lead to research collaborations, publications, internships, and career opportunities. Research Collaboration Across Scotland SICSA has established itself as a leading organization supporting computer science research throughout Scotland. SPLV'26 encourages collaboration between universities by creating an environment where researchers can: Share research findings. Develop joint projects. Exchange teaching practices. Build international partnerships. Discuss funding opportunities. These collaborations contribute significantly to strengthening Scotland's reputation as a global center for informatics research. Benefits for PhD Students Doctoral researchers gain tremendous value from attending SPLV'26. The summer school provides opportunities to: Present research ideas. Receive expert feedback. Improve technical knowledge. Expand professional networks. Learn modern research methodologies. Exposure to experienced researchers helps students refine their research direction while developing essential communication and collaboration skills. Industry Applications of Software Verification Software verification is no longer limited to academic research. Modern industries increasingly rely on formally verified software to improve reliability and security. Applications include: Banking systems Healthcare platforms Autonomous vehicles Aviation software Cybersecurity solutions Industrial automation Cloud computing Financial technology Professionals attending SPLV'26 will learn how verification techniques reduce software defects while supporting regulatory compliance and operational excellence. Emerging Topics Covered During the Event The event explores several emerging research areas shaping the future of computing science. These include: Artificial Intelligence verification Machine learning reliability Secure cloud computing Verified distributed systems Privacy-preserving computation Quantum programming languages Automated proof generation Secure software architectures Participants gain early exposure to technologies expected to influence future software engineering practices. Career Development Opportunities SPLV'26 supports career development for both academic researchers and software professionals. Participants strengthen skills in: Research communication Technical presentation Problem solving Scientific collaboration Software engineering Academic writing Leadership Critical thinking These competencies are highly valued by universities, research institutions, technology companies, and government organizations. Why SICSA Continues to Lead Computing Research The Scottish Informatics and Computer Science Alliance plays an essential role in advancing computing research across Scotland. Through conferences, workshops, seminars, doctoral training, and collaborative research initiatives, SICSA continues to support innovation in computer science while encouraging partnerships between academia and industry. Its educational events provide researchers with access to world-class expertise while strengthening Scotland's position as a leading destination for informatics research and technology innovation. Wrapping Up SPLV'26 Summer School offers an outstanding opportunity for researchers, software engineers, postgraduate students, and academics to deepen their knowledge of programming languages and software verification. Through expert presentations, practical workshops, collaborative discussions, and professional networking, participants gain valuable technical skills that can be applied across both research and industry. Whether your goal is to improve software quality, explore advanced programming language concepts, collaborate with international researchers, or build your academic career, SPLV'26 provides the ideal environment to learn, innovate, and connect with the global computing science community.

The Vibrant Vintage Autumn Craft & Fair, organized by Victoria Claire and the Vibrant Vintage team, is a premier celebration of nostalgia, classic style, and sustainable fashion. Taking place within the historic surrounds of Victoria Hall in central Bolton, this full-day event brings together specialist vintage traders, independent retro craft makers, and passionate collectors from across Lancashire and Greater Manchester. Designed to offer an authentic alternative to fast fashion, the fair provides a vibrant marketplace where attendees can browse curated fashion pieces, rare collectibles, and handmade goods steeped in heritage and character. Handpicked Vintage Clothing and Retro Collectibles At the heart of the fair is an expansive showcase of genuine vintage garments and accessories spanning the decades from the 1920s right through to the late 1980s. Visitors can explore stalls filled with elegant evening dresses, classic tailoring, regal hats, genuine leather handbags, retro costume jewelry, and rare antique trinkets. Every vendor is selected for their quality and authenticity, providing fashion lovers with the opportunity to find one-of-a-kind statement pieces that add timeless charm to a modern wardrobe while supporting circular, eco-conscious fashion choices. Artisan Craft Stalls and Handmade Treasures Complementing the array of vintage apparel, the event features a selection of regional craft stalls displaying handmade creations inspired by mid-century aesthetics. Local artisans showcase bespoke homewares, upcycled textile accessories, hand-poured candles, retro prints, and custom gift items. Meeting the makers face-to-face gives guests an opportunity to learn about traditional crafting techniques, discuss custom orders, and support independent small businesses that keep creative heritage crafts alive in the local community. Live Entertainment and Vintage Tearoom Experience Beyond shopping, the Vibrant Vintage Fair delivers a complete sensory experience filled with warm atmosphere and music. Throughout the day, live performers will entertain guests with classic acoustic hits, swing tunes, and vocal melodies from eras past. Attendees can take a break from browsing by visiting the pop-up vintage tearoom, where delicious homemade cakes, scones, and traditional teas are served on classic china crockery. The social tearoom setting allows visitors to sit back, soak in the live music, and share their unique fair finds with fellow enthusiasts. Expert Advice and Community Engagement The fair serves as an educational and community hub for those interested in garment preservation, antique styling, and sustainable living. Event organizer Victoria Claire and visiting experts will be available to answer questions regarding fabric care, vintage sizing, and styling retro pieces for modern occasions. Whether you are a dedicated vintage collector or simply looking for a fun, creative day out with friends, the inclusive atmosphere ensures that every attendee feels welcome and inspired. Visitor Information and Event Access The Vibrant Vintage Autumn Craft & Fair takes place on Sunday, 18th October 2026, from 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM at Victoria Hall, located conveniently on Knowsley Street in Bolton. Entry is £2 at the door, with accompanied under-12s entering free. Positioned close to public transport hubs and town center car parks, the venue is fully accessible, making it an easy and delightful weekend destination. Join Vibrant Vintage in Bolton for a unique shopping and cultural experience.

As the United Kingdom transitions toward a more circular economy, local authorities face unprecedented pressure to adapt to shifting legislative frameworks. The LARAC East Midlands Local Authority Briefing serves as a critical touchpoint for waste management professionals and council officers to dissect the practical implications of recent environmental mandates. This session is specifically designed to address the unique logistical and demographic challenges faced by councils within the East Midlands, providing a collaborative environment where leaders can share successes and navigate collective hurdles. The briefing will delve into the intricacies of the "Simpler Recycling" reforms, focusing on the standardisation of collection streams across residential and commercial sectors. Attendees will engage in detailed workshops concerning the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging, exploring how these new funding models will directly impact local council budgets and infrastructure investments. Expert speakers from the Local Authority Recycling Advisory Committee will provide updates on the latest Defra consultations, ensuring that every participant leaves with a clear, actionable roadmap for their respective borough or district. Beyond the regulatory updates, the event focuses heavily on digital transformation within waste services. We will explore the integration of AI-driven sorting technologies and the use of big data to track contamination rates at the kerbside. By fostering a network of regional experts, this briefing empowers local authorities to move beyond mere compliance, aiming instead for regional excellence in resource recovery. Join us in Nottingham to strengthen the East Midlands' position as a leader in sustainable local government practices.

Data is often called the new oil, but without a standard way to refine and transport it, its value is limited. The OGC Business Intelligence & Location Analytics seminar in Nottingham focuses on how enterprises can leverage open geospatial standards to drive ROI and operational efficiency. This event moves away from the purely technical and focuses on the "Business Case for Open Standards." From retail site selection to supply chain optimization, location intelligence is the secret weapon of the modern successful corporation. We will explore how the adoption of OGC standards like the Web Feature Service (The Nottingham BelfryWFS) and Web Map Service (WMS) allows businesses to integrate external geographic data into their existing CRM and ERP systems with minimal friction. This interoperability enables a holistic view of market trends, logistics bottlenecks, and customer demographics. Speakers from the finance and retail sectors will share their experiences in moving away from proprietary "walled garden" software toward open ecosystems that allow for greater flexibility and lower long-term costs. The seminar also highlights the emerging field of "Indoor Mapping" and its impact on the hospitality and real estate industries. Using OGC’s IndoorGML, businesses can create precise maps of shopping malls, airports, and office complexes, enabling better facility management and personalized customer experiences through wayfinding apps. The final segment of the day will be dedicated to a "Vendor-Neutral" showcase. Unlike many commercial trade shows, this event prioritizes the standards themselves, showing how multiple different software products can work together seamlessly when they adhere to OGC guidelines. This is a must-attend event for C-level executives, department heads, and business analysts who want to ensure their organization’s spatial data strategy is future-proof and scalable.

Security and situational awareness rely heavily on the precision and availability of spatial data. The OGC Defence and Security Spatial Data Forum, taking place in Nottingham, is a high-level briefing and networking event designed for professionals working at the intersection of national security and geospatial intelligence. This forum addresses the critical need for "Interoperability under Pressure," examining how OGC standards can be utilized in mission-critical environments where data must be shared across different jurisdictions and platforms instantly. The forum will cover the latest advancements in the OGC GeoPackage standard, which has become a cornerstone for disconnected operations in the field. Experts will discuss how to maintain data integrity when operating in low-bandwidth environments and how standardized metadata allows for rapid intelligence synthesis from multiple sources, including satellite imagery, drone feeds, and ground sensors. This is a unique opportunity to hear from defence contractors and military advisors about the real-world requirements of the modern tactical edge. In addition to hardware and software discussions, the forum will host a series of "Closed Door" style briefings on cyber-spatial security. As geospatial data becomes more central to national infrastructure, protecting these data pipelines from manipulation and spoofing is a top priority. We will explore how OGC is working with security agencies to bake-in encryption and authentication at the standards level. The afternoon will feature a "Technology Horizon" panel, looking at the role of augmented reality (AR) in field operations. By using standardized 3D data, field units can overlay critical information onto their physical surroundings with high precision. This event is essential for anyone involved in the procurement, development, or analysis of spatial data for the defence, emergency services, or private security sectors.

The OGC Smart Cities Interoperability Workshop is a hands-on, intensive event dedicated to solving the complex challenges of data silos in modern urban environments. In the heart of Nottingham, a city renowned for its commitment to sustainable transport and green energy, this workshop brings together technical experts to bridge the gap between theoretical standards and practical implementation. The core focus of this event is the application of OGC standards like CityGML and SensorThings API to create a seamless flow of information across various city departments. The workshop is structured to move quickly from high-level concepts to real-world coding and configuration. Participants will engage in "sprint-style" sessions where they attempt to integrate disparate data feeds—such as live traffic sensors, air quality monitors, and building energy usage—into a unified visualization dashboard. This collaborative environment encourages peer-to-peer learning and the sharing of "battle-tested" solutions for common interoperability hurdles. Expert mentors from the OGC community will be on hand to provide guidance on schema mapping, API security, and data harvesting techniques. One of the unique aspects of this Nottingham event is the focus on "Green Interoperability." As cities face increasing pressure to meet net-zero targets, the ability to accurately measure and report environmental metrics is vital. We will explore how OGC standards facilitate the monitoring of carbon footprints at a granular level, allowing for more effective local government interventions. The event concludes with a demonstration gallery, where workshop groups present their integrated solutions to a panel of industry veterans. This is not just a learning exercise; the prototypes developed here often serve as the foundation for future grant applications and commercial products. By participating, you become part of a global movement dedicated to making our cities more efficient, livable, and resilient through the power of open, standardized data.

The OGC Geospatial Innovation Summit represents a pivotal gathering for the global community of location data experts, researchers, and policy-makers. Set against the backdrop of Nottingham’s thriving tech hub, this event focuses on the next generation of Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) standards that are driving the future of digital twins and urban planning. As we move into an era defined by massive datasets and the need for real-time spatial intelligence, this summit provides a necessary platform for discussing the evolution of the OGC API family of standards. Attendees will delve deep into how these modern, developer-friendly standards are replacing legacy systems to provide more agile, web-centric ways of sharing and using geospatial information. The sessions are designed to be high-impact, featuring a mix of keynote speeches from industry leaders and technical deep dives. Participants will explore the intersection of geospatial data with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, examining how standardized data structures allow for more robust predictive modeling in climate change and urban development. Beyond the technical specifications, the summit emphasizes the "human element" of interoperability—how disparate organizations can collaborate more effectively when they speak the same data language. The afternoon sessions will pivot toward practical application, showcasing local and international case studies where OGC standards have facilitated breakthrough innovations in smart city infrastructure. From managing underground utility assets to optimizing public transit routes, the versatility of geospatial data is the core theme. The event also serves as a critical networking junction, connecting academic researchers from the University of Nottingham with private sector developers and government officials. By fostering this ecosystem, the summit aims to accelerate the adoption of open standards that ensure data is not just "big," but findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR). Whether you are a seasoned GIS professional or a software architect looking to integrate location intelligence into your applications, this summit offers the insights and connections necessary to stay at the forefront of the industry. We will conclude with a forward-looking panel on the "Metaverse and the OGC," exploring how standardized 3D geospatial data will form the foundation of persistent virtual worlds.

The British Society of Criminology (BSC) Conference 2026 is a massive scientific colloquium bringing together thousands of experts to Nottingham to discuss the theme: "Hope, Transformation, and Justice." This event is a critical nexus for researchers in the social sciences, forensic psychology, and criminal justice. Over four days, the conference will host over 200 sessions covering a wide array of sub-themes, including "Justice in a Digital Age" and "Sustainability in the Face of Global Uncertainty." This colloquium is particularly notable for its integration of technological research into the study of crime, focusing on digital resilience, AI-driven policing, and the ethics of biometric data. The conference kicks off with a dedicated Postgraduate (PGR) day on July 7th, providing a nurturing environment for the next generation of criminologists to present their research. The main conference features plenary speakers such as Dr. Jason Warr from the University of Nottingham and Professor Sundari Anitha from the University of Sheffield. These sessions will address how the criminal justice system can develop capacity for change in an increasingly polarized world. The 2026 event also places a significant emphasis on "Global South" perspectives, offering specialized tracks and bursaries for international delegates. Beyond the academic rigors, the conference includes a gala dinner and several networking receptions at historic Nottingham venues, allowing for the informal exchange of ideas that often leads to groundbreaking international research partnerships. For anyone involved in the study or administration of justice, this is the definitive scientific event of the year in the UK.

Pint of Science 2026 brings the prestige of a scientific colloquium to the relaxed atmosphere of Nottingham's most iconic pubs. This international festival, occurring simultaneously across the globe, features the "Planet Earth" series in Nottingham starting in mid-May 2026. The series focuses on the intersection of environmental science, sustainability, and biodiversity. Unlike traditional ivory-tower conferences, this event encourages direct dialogue between world-class scientists and the general public. Each evening features two to three speakers who are pioneers in their respective fields, ranging from geologists discussing carbon sequestration to biologists revealing the secret life of microbes. In 2026, the Nottingham series will specifically highlight local research from the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University regarding the "Future of Energy" and "Regenerative Agriculture." The sessions are interactive, featuring science-themed pub quizzes, live demonstrations of environmental sensors, and Q&A sessions that often last longer than the talks themselves. This event type represents a "Seminar/Networking" hybrid that democratizes knowledge. It is the perfect venue for those who are curious about the latest scientific breakthroughs but prefer a casual environment. For the scientific community, it serves as an essential exercise in science communication, challenging researchers to explain complex phenomena like "Groundwater Sustainability" or "Nature-Based Solutions" without the use of jargon. The 2026 series is expected to sell out quickly, as it remains one of Nottingham's most popular intellectual events, combining the city's rich brewing heritage with its status as a hub for scientific innovation.

The NTU RISE-AI 2026 is an ambitious interdisciplinary scientific colloquium focused on the transformative power of Data, Quantitative Methods, and Computational Intelligence. As Artificial Intelligence becomes deeply embedded in every facet of research, this conference provides a critical forum for scholars across all disciplines—from the life sciences to the humanities—to discuss the ethical, technical, and societal implications of AI-driven research. The 2026 edition emphasizes "Resilience in Intelligence," exploring how robust data modeling can address global challenges such as climate change and public health crises. The scientific program includes a mix of plenary sessions, parallel thematic presentations, and the popular "Data Failures and Lessons Learned" segment, which promotes research transparency by discussing methodological challenges. This colloquium is supported by the NTU Research Investment in Culture and Environment (RICE) Fund, highlighting its importance in fostering a culture of interdisciplinarity. Attendees will hear from experts in Neuromorphic Computing, Applied Statistics, and Paediotic Sport Science, reflecting the diverse applications of computational intelligence. The event is designed to break down traditional academic silos, encouraging a social scientist to collaborate with a machine learning expert. With a focus on reproducibility and open research, RISE-AI 2026 is the premier venue in the UK Midlands for anyone looking to stay at the vanguard of the digital research revolution. It offers a unique environment for early-career researchers to present lightning talks and receive feedback from established leaders in the field of AI and data science.

The Scientific Laboratory Show & Conference 2026 returns to Nottingham as the UK's premier gathering for laboratory professionals, researchers, and scientific innovators. Hosted by Scientific Laboratory Supplies (SLS), this colloquium is uniquely designed to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application. The event serves as a high-level scientific exchange where the latest advancements in laboratory technology, analytical instrumentation, and chemical research are showcased. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with over 70 world-leading exhibitors, including industry giants such as Thermo Fisher Scientific, Eppendorf, and Mettler Toledo. The conference program is headlined by distinguished keynote speakers, including world-renowned neuroscientist Professor Sophie Scott CBE and space scientist Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock. These sessions will delve into the "Science of Communication" and "Modern STEM Diversity," providing a broad intellectual foundation for the day's technical sessions. Beyond the keynote hall, the event features a series of technical workshops focusing on sustainability in the lab, the future of automated sample management, and new regulatory updates in clinical testing. The atmosphere is designed to foster collaboration, with dedicated networking zones where PhD students can rub shoulders with senior procurement officers and research directors. This is not just a trade show; it is a comprehensive scientific colloquium that addresses the practical and theoretical challenges of modern science. Whether you are looking for precision instrumentation for a biotech startup or exploring the latest in sustainable lab practices, this event provides the insights and connections necessary to drive scientific excellence in 2026 and beyond.

BNMS Tech-Connect: Innovations in Scanning is a unique event specifically tailored for the technologists and radiographers who are the backbone of nuclear medicine departments. Recognizing that technology moves faster than textbooks, this Nottingham-based gathering focuses on the practical, "on-the-ground" innovations that improve patient experience and image acquisition. The event combines technical skill-building with high-level networking, allowing professionals from across the UK to share workflow efficiencies. The program highlights the transition to digital scanning environments. With many departments upgrading their hardware, there is a significant learning curve associated with new interface designs and motion-correction software. Expert technologists will lead sessions on "Optimizing the Pediatric Scan," focusing on immobilization techniques and dose reduction strategies that maintain diagnostic quality while ensuring the comfort of young patients. Another key theme is the management of the "Difficult Scan," addressing morbidly obese patients or those with severe claustrophobia, providing ergonomic tips and communication strategies. Innovation isn't just about the machines; it’s about the people. The "Tech-Connect" element of the event includes structured networking sessions where attendees can discuss career progression, the transition into Advanced Practitioner roles, and the evolving scope of practice in the UK. Manufacturers will also be on-site with "Sim-Suites," allowing participants to test-drive the latest software updates in a low-pressure environment. By focusing on the intersection of patient care and technical excellence, this event empowers the workforce to return to their hospitals with renewed confidence and a fresh perspective on departmental workflow.