Washington University in St. Louis hosted an exclusive salon event on Sept. 26 at the Middle Eight Hotel in Covent Garden, London. The gathering aimed to connect alumni and showcase the university’s responsible and secure advancements in artificial intelligence (AI).
The event followed a significant visit to the U.K. by WashU’s Institute for Informatics, Data Science and Biostatistics (I2DB) team, in partnership with GlobalSTL. This trip, which spanned Scotland, Wales, and Great Britain, aimed to strengthen WashU’s international network of academic and economic collaborators.
Dr. Philip Payne, director of I2DB, addressed the attendees, highlighting the importance of international partnerships in advancing research that transcends geographic boundaries. These collaborations enable the exchange of diverse perspectives and resources, positioning WashU at the forefront of innovation.
Dr. Payne also emphasized the value of bilateral student exchange programs, which offer students the chance to immerse themselves in new academic and cultural environments. Such experiences broaden students’ perspectives and enhance essential cross-cultural skills, crucial in today’s global workforce.
Moreover, international engagement provides critical insights into diverse approaches to translating research into practical applications. Learning from global models allows WashU to develop strategies that accelerate research impact and address societal needs more effectively.
The London event underscored WashU’s dedication to fostering international relationships and advancing research and innovation. Attendees left inspired and connected, becoming part of a growing global network committed to leveraging AI for positive change.
The I2DB team will return to London the week of June 3, 2025. Stay tuned for more initiatives and upcoming events.
