Academic Area
Robotics
Understanding how intelligent systems act, adapt, and interact with the physical world.
Thinking About Thinking Inc. supports interdisciplinary inquiry into robotics as a core domain for understanding embodied intelligence.
This academic area brings together researchers and practitioners working across robotics, control systems, embodied AI, human–robot interaction, cognitive science, neuroscience, and applied engineering. We are interested in how intelligence emerges through action, how physical constraints shape learning and behaviour, and how systems perceive, decide, and adapt in real-world environments.
Our emphasis is on embodiment, control, and interaction, the coupling between perception, decision-making, and action that allows intelligent systems to operate beyond simulation and abstraction.
Core Questions We Explore
How does embodiment change the nature of intelligence and learning?
How should perception, control, and decision-making be integrated in autonomous systems?
What role do physical constraints play in shaping behaviour and adaptation?
How do robots learn from interaction with dynamic, uncertain environments?
What makes human–robot interaction safe, intuitive, and trustworthy?
Where do current robotic systems fall short of biological intelligence, and why?
Recordings
Events
Neuroscience and cognitive science are core threads across our flagship events.
At neuromonster, these questions are explored in depth through long-form talks and working groups focused on the neuroscience and mathematics of intelligence.
At AE Global Summit, cognitive and neural perspectives inform broader discussions about intelligence, computation, and society.
ThAT Ambassador Programme
The Thinking About Thinking Ambassador Programme is an open, application-based pathway for students and early-career researchers who want to take part in serious, interdisciplinary conversations about intelligence.
Ambassadors support Thinking About Thinking’s conferences, workshops, and community initiatives, helping to extend thoughtful dialogue across universities, disciplines, and countries. The programme is designed for people who care deeply about ideas, collaboration, and building intellectual communities.
Outstanding Ambassadors who demonstrate sustained contribution, leadership, and intellectual engagement may be invited into the Thinking About Thinking Fellowship, a private, invitation-only programme for long-term contributors.
Ambassadors
Year 2025
Ambassadors
Support the future of intelligence research and understanding