The AIRON Academy delivers educational programmes that advance knowledge, understanding and skills in the responsible, ethical and effective use of artificial intelligence within research operations and the wider research and innovation ecosystem.

Our programmes support research managers, administrators, librarians, governance professionals, funders, researchers and others who wish to develop a deeper understanding of AI and its implications for research support.

Through evidence-informed education, discussion and shared learning, participants are encouraged to think critically, explore different perspectives and make informed decisions about the use of AI in their professional practice.

Why AIRON Academy?

Artificial intelligence is transforming many aspects of research operations.

Understanding both its opportunities and its limitations requires ongoing learning and informed discussion.

AIRON Academy provides educational opportunities that help participants:

• develop knowledge and understanding of AI
• build practical skills through guided learning
• explore ethical, governance and professional considerations
• examine real-world examples and case studies
• learn from shared experience across the research community.

Our Educational Programmes

AIRO Leads

A cohort-based educational programme that explores the responsible use of AI within research operations through structured learning, discussion and peer exchange.

AI Clinics

Interactive educational sessions where participants examine practical questions, discuss emerging issues and learn from real-world examples.

AI Labs

Facilitated learning sessions that use case studies and guided activities to help participants explore different approaches to AI within research-support settings.

Short Courses

Structured educational courses focusing on specific topics, professional roles and emerging developments in AI and research operations.

Executive Learning Sessions

Educational sessions for research leaders that increase understanding of AI, governance, ethics and institutional considerations within research operations.

Our Educational Approach

All AIRON Academy programmes are:

• educational and evidence-informed
• independent and free from commercial influence
• grounded in real research-support practice
• centred on responsible and ethical AI
• designed to encourage critical thinking and informed decision-making.

AIRON does not promote specific AI products, provide technology implementation services or offer commercial consultancy.

Learning for Individuals

Individuals can participate through:

• open educational events;
• short courses;
• AI Clinics;
• AI Labs
• AIRO Leads
• AIRON Membership and AIRON Pro Membership.

Membership is not required to access AIRON’s freely available educational resources or public learning opportunities.

Learning for Organisations

Universities, research organisations, funders, charities, healthcare organisations and other institutions may participate in AIRON’s educational programmes for groups and teams.

Educational opportunities include:

• workshops;
• AI Clinics;
• AI Labs
• short courses
• executive learning sessions
• cohort-based educational programmes.

These programmes are designed to increase knowledge, understanding and informed discussion about AI within research operations.

Tailored Educational Programmes

Where appropriate, AIRON may adapt the content of its educational programmes to reflect the learning needs of particular professional audiences or sectors.

Adaptations may include relevant case studies, examples and discussion topics while maintaining the same educational objectives and charitable purpose.

AIRON does not provide consultancy, organisational transformation services or technology implementation.

Accessibility and Public Benefit

AIRON is committed to making its educational activities as accessible as possible.

Alongside paid educational programmes that support the charity’s sustainability, AIRON provides free webinars, publications and educational resources. Where resources allow, reduced-fee, subsidised or bursary-supported places will be offered to widen participation.

All income and any surplus generated through AIRON Academy are applied solely to further AIRON’s charitable purpose of advancing education for the public benefit.