The call for papers is now open for the track on AI in the Lab: Transformations in R&D and the Practice of Science at the R&D Management Conference in Manchester, UK, June 22−24, 2026.
AI is reshaping how science is done-from ideation, hypothesis generation and experimentation, to data interpretation, validation, and communication-redefining the norms, methods, and epistemic foundations of R&D. The AI in the Lab track will examine how AI-enabled tools, infrastructures, and collaborations are reconfiguring scientific practice and discovery in both academic and corporate R&D settings.
The track will bring together contributions addressing AI-enabled research design, human–machine interaction, data infrastructures, scientific productivity and novelty, expertise, and ethics, as well as evolving modes of communication and cross-sectoral/disciplinary and institutional collaboration.
Key links:
· Information about the 2026 R&D Management Conference organized by the Manchester Institute of Innovation Research at Alliance Manchester Business School, at The University of Manchester: https://www.rnd2026.org/
· Details about the AI in the Lab track (Theme 9.3): https://www.rnd2026.org/track-details-1/theme-9.3
· Paper submissions: Extended abstracts must be submitted by February 2, 2026 via the ConfTool website at the following link: https://www.conftool.com/rnd2026/index.php?page=index
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Giulio Ferrigno
Senior Assistant Professor
Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna
Pisa
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