Centre for AI, Ethics & Leadership

Artificial intelligence is transforming economies, governance and society. The Collingwood Centre for AI, Ethics and Leadership, launching in October 2026, will provide a distinctive platform at Durham University for students to explore the opportunities and challenges created by AI.

Hosted within the college, this student-facing research centre will bring together interdisciplinary perspectives on the ethical, social and leadership implications of artificial intelligence. Drawing on expertise from across the University, as well as alumni, industry leaders and public sector partners, the centre will support students in understanding how AI is reshaping professional life and public decision-making.

The Centre will host a distinguished annual public lecture alongside a regularly lecture series exploring topics such as what AI is and how it works, responsible and ethical uses of AI, AI and democracy, the future of work and leadership in an AI-driven world.

Alongside public lectures, the centre will develop visiting fellowships, practitioner engagement and professional development opportunities and plans for short courses and a summer school from 2027. It is directed by the college principal, Professor Thom Brooks. 

Through these activities, the centre aims to support AI literacy, critical thinking and leadership development for students across all degree programmes preparing our students for the future.