Robots and the Search for Universal Intelligence

Robots and the Search for Universal Intelligence

The DAAD-University of Cambridge Research Hub for German Studies is proud to present the sixth in an annual series of lectures in conjunction with the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) presenting the work of their Leibniz Prize winners.

The Leibniz Prizes are the highest distinction in German academic life, and we are delighted to welcome Professor Sami Haddadin, who will be giving a lecture on “Robots and the Search for Universal Intelligence: How Machines Learn to Move, Think, and Adapt” on 8 May, 5.30pm, in the McCrum Lecture Theatre at Corpus Christi College.

Robots are becoming an integral part of our world, with exponential growth in both their numbers and capabilities over the past five years. From manufacturing to surgery to household helpers, robots are transforming industries. However, one critical piece is still missing: a true robot brain.

In this talk, Professor Haddadin will explore efforts to develop Universal Physical and Embodied Intelligence - an advanced robotic brain capable of sensing and responding to the dynamic physical world, interacting safely and intelligently, and learning from experience. He will also delve into the potential of these advancements to drive innovation across industries, including their role in the ultimate quest for Robotic Knowledge Discovery in the Natural Sciences. Join us as we envision a future where robots are not just tools, but true collaborators in shaping tomorrow.

Sami Haddadin is a world-renowned robotics and AI researcher. He served as Director of the Munich Institute of Robotics and Machine Intelligence at the Technical University of Munich and is now Vice President for Research at the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence in Abu Dhabi. His pioneering work spans robotics, artificial intelligence, and neurotechnology, driving innovations that shape the future of human-centered robotics and embodied AI. From groundbreaking research to globally used commercial robots like Franka and KUKA, Professor Haddadin’s contributions power the current revolution in physical AI. Recognized with prestigious awards, including the Leibniz Prize, he has also shared his vision as a plenary speaker at leading conferences like AAAI and ICRA. Beyond the lab, his work influences global AI strategies and features in science and art museums worldwide.

Introductory remarks will be made by the DAAD Hub’s Director, Professor Chris Young, and the DFG’s Vice President, Professor Johannes Grave. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end of the lecture. We would be delighted if you could join us for what promises to be a very informative occasion.

The event will take place at 5.30pm on 8 May in the in the McCrum Lecture Theatre (on Bene't Street, situated across the road from Corpus Christi College) followed by a drinks reception.

The DFG

The DFG is the central self-governing research funding organisation in Germany. The DFG serves the sciences and humanities and promotes research of the highest quality in all its forms and disciplines at universities and non-university research institutions. The focus is on funding projects developed by the academic community itself in the area of knowledge-driven research. The DFG endows various research prizes, including the Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize.

Please be aware that photographs of the event will be taken. If you would not like to be photographed, please make yourself known to us at the event.