Research
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The fundamental goal behind all our research is to build a data and AI enriched world for the benefit of all

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We are doing this through basic research into theoretical scientific problems, and through applying our cutting-edge science to real-world problems, and with recognition of the important legal, ethical and societal implications of these technologies.

We channel our research around a number of ambitious challenges which represent areas in which AI and data science can have a game-changing impact for science, society, and the economy. These challenges will not be led by the Turing alone, but depend on significant collaboration and partnerships.

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Research areas

The Institute's research spans a huge range of disciplines and expertise. See the (still expanding) list of research areas and explore snapshots of projects, people, events and more.

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Our grand challenges

A grand challenge-led approach for Turing’s science and innovation agenda provides the common focus, clear direction and a mandate to prioritise activity, as well as the inspiration and motivation for diverse communities and capabilities to come together in support of these organising principles. In alignment with national priority areas, we have selected the following areas of focus for grand challenges:

Core capabilities

The challenges are supported by the broad range of research strengths and capability in the Institute:

System architecture
Security and robustness
Core statistics: complex structure in data
Machine learning and artificial intelligence
Mathematical modelling of complex systems
Understanding human behaviour
Ethics in data science and artificial intelligence

Current programmes

Significant programmes of strategic research, typically led by a Programme Director or Directors and with involvement from industry, public sector or third sector partners.

Strategic Priorities Fund

The Alan Turing Institute will spearhead new cutting-edge data science and artificial intelligence research thanks to a £48 million government funding boost. The funding is part of the government’s Strategic Priorities Fund; a programme of research spending co-ordinated in partnership with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

The Turing is leading two flagship areas of research: the first to undertake and apply artificial intelligence research with the goal to transform four key areas of science, industry and government, and the second a pioneering collaboration with the arts and humanities community using data science and artificial intelligence to analyse the human impact of the industrial revolution.

The work involves researchers from the Turing’s university network, as well from other universities across the UK, and collaboration with numerous government departments. The research cuts across numerous disciplines, developing data science and AI solutions and tools that address important challenges to the UK economy and society. These outputs will also have significant impact for both theoretical and applied scholarship in AI and data science.

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Current projects

Focused scientific study, led by Turing researchers, working with other academics and often industry collaborators, towards defined objectives. Turing research projects aim to be multidisciplinary and multi-institutional, delivering both scientific and real-world impact. 

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Interest groups

Institute researchers have set up interest groups to drive collaboration in shared topics in data science. Contact group organisers to get involved or find out more.

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Publications & policy submissions

Explore our latest research publications, software, and policy submissions in response to government and parliamentary calls for evidence

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Theory and Method Challenge Fortnights

Intensive two-week events where a team of experts initiate work on tackling foundational challenges in data science and artificial intelligence

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Data ethics

Find out about the data ethics initiatives taking place at the Turing.

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