Six PhD students from across a range of departments and disciplines at South East Technological University (SETU) represented the university at the sixth EU-CONEXUS PhD Summer School.
Hosted by Frederick University and coordinated by the Technical University of Civil Engineering Bucharest (UTCB), this year's Summer School centred on the theme AI for Impact: From Smart Tools to Ethical Decision-Making. The interdisciplinary programme explored the opportunities, applications and ethical implications of artificial intelligence while bringing together doctoral researchers from across the EU-CONEXUS Alliance.
As a key component of the EU-CONEXUS PhD Joint Actions Framework, the Summer School combined research-focused learning with the development of transferable skills. Throughout the week, participants attended expert-led workshops on research integrity in the age of generative AI, AI-assisted scientific writing and LaTeX, Green Campus initiatives, and European research funding opportunities.
Student Feedback
PhD student Anam Amjad said the experience had a direct impact on her research.
"The Gen AI Manifesto workshop was particularly useful. Reviewing and giving feedback on SETU's manifesto in a mixed audience of non-AI specialists gave me a clearer understanding of how to communicate responsible AI to different stakeholders. The sessions on ethical decision-making also connected closely to my research on audio deepfake detection, while the interdisciplinary team challenge reinforced the value of designing real-time AI systems."
Alongside the academic programme, participants took part in workshops designed to strengthen collaboration, communication and critical thinking while exploring the responsible use of AI in research and education.
PhD student Chief Mdoe Ibrahim highlighted the wider benefits of taking part.
"It is highly beneficial for both staff and students to engage with EU-CONEXUS. It provides access to a wealth of expertise across the consortium while creating valuable opportunities to build research collaborations, professional networks and future career opportunities."
The programme also included a dedicated networking day with representatives from Ayia Napa Municipality, who showcased initiatives aimed at creating a more diverse and sustainable tourism destination. Participants also experienced local culture through a pottery workshop at the Country House Museum and a visit to the Thalassa Municipal Museum.
Valuable Experience
Dr Yvonne Kavanagh, Director of Engineering Research and Innovation at SETU in Carlow, presented at the Summer School and attended associated meetings, emphasised the value of the experience.
"The Summer School allows participants to experience different cultures, build international networks and explore future collaborations. Bringing staff and students together creates an informal environment where ideas can be shared and lasting research partnerships can begin."
Reflecting on the experience, PhD candidate Tracy Dermody said the Summer School had broadened both her research perspective and professional practice.
"Learning about the range of AI tools available to support research, alongside the importance of using them ethically, was invaluable. I also benefited greatly from collaborating with PhD researchers and staff across the Alliance, gaining new ideas that I can apply in both my doctoral research and my role supporting postgraduate researchers at SETU."
The EU-CONEXUS PhD Summer School continues to provide SETU doctoral researchers with opportunities to develop international networks, strengthen interdisciplinary research skills and gain practical experience in emerging areas of research.
