IST Technical Conference 2025
We can’t wait for this year’s Conference - it’s going to be an inspiring and engaging day, and we hope to see you there!
The IST Conference, its talks and workshops offer the opportunity for you to update your technical knowledge, skills and advance your career development, providing valuable networking opportunities to engage and learn from the professional and technical community. The event is aimed at anyone who works in working in STEMM, Creative Industries or Artificial Intelligence across industry, higher education and research.
** Please note: if you require overnight accommodation on the 17th September, we have concluded that it would be more cost-effective if booked individually as the rates for organsiational bookings exceeds the rate that can be secured on a personal basis. One suggestion, close to the venue is Peter Scott House. **
Keynote Speaker Lineup
We are pleased to announce this year’s distinguished keynote speakers:

Professor Tracy Harwood
Professor of Digital Culture at De Montfort University, Leicester, and a leading researcher at the Institute of Creative Technologies. Her work explores the intersection of technology, creativity, and society.

Professor Kit Windows-Yule
Professor Kit Windows-Yule is Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of AI startup EvoPhase and Director of Innovation for the University of Birmingham’s College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

Dr. Raj Persaud
A highly regarded consultant psychiatrist based on Harley Street, Dr. Persaud is also a life coach, executive coach, broadcaster, and author. He is known for making complex psychological insights accessible to a broad audience.
Workshop Categories
- AI and Technology
Understanding the rapid advancements in AI and technology is crucial to stay ahead in an increasingly digital world and to ensure effective integration into your work. - Creative Technologies / Media / Comms
Keeping pace with innovations in creative industries and communication ensures you remain competitive and can harness new tools to engage audiences and drive impact. - Health & Safety and the Environment
Adopting forward-thinking strategies in health, safety, and environmental management is vital to creating sustainable, resilient workplaces and addressing evolving regulatory demands. - Careers
Developing strategies to future-proof your career ensures long-term success, adaptability, and the ability to thrive in a constantly shifting job market.
Poster Competition
At the 2025 IST conference we are excited again to be running the IST Poster Competition. This years’ theme is ‘Outreach‘ – we would like your posters to feature and highlight any of the wonderful outreach that IST members undertake.
Posters will be judged by the IST president, Helen Sharman, and our key sponsors.
What We’re Looking For
Posters should explore how technical practices, innovation strategies, or professional methodologies are evolving to meet the needs of current and future technicians.
Let your poster spark curiosity, share valuable insights, and provoke thoughtful discussion among peers.
Poster Specifications
- Size: A1 (594mm x 841mm)
- Format: Hard copy must be printed and supplied for display at the event
- Submission Deadline: PDF version to be emailed by 1st September for judging
- File Naming Convention: PosterTitle_YourName.pdf
Prizes (Sponsored by Sim&Skills)
- First Prize: £100 vouchers
- Highly Commended (2 awards): £50 vouchers each
Winners will be announced at the Conference.
Submission Details
Please send your PDF submissions to: office@istonline.org.uk
Include your full name, poster title, and a brief description (max 150 words) of your work.
Whether you’re a seasoned contributor or first-time participant, this is your chance to celebrate how our fantastic technical community continues to evolve, adapt, and lead. Ready to inspire?
This year, delegates will have exciting opportunities to win awards and prizes.
** For delegates that attended the 2024 Conference: Offer available for a limited time, book now to avoid disappointment! **
Location
University of Birmingham, B15 2SB