ICTF Conference 2025
Agenda
| Start | End | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 08:30 | 09:15 | Registration, Pastries and Tea/Coffee |
| 09:15 | 09:30 | Welcome and Introduction |
| 09:30 | 10:25 | Plenary 1 - Empowering Oxford: Microsoft Tools in Action and What’s Next - Lizzie Falkowska |
| 10:30 | 11:15 | Breakout Session A |
| 11:15 | 11:45 | Morning Tea/Coffee and Networking Suppliers and Colleagues |
| 11:50 | 12:35 | Breakout Session B |
| 12:35 | 14:15 | Lunch - Networking Suppliers and Colleagues |
| 14:15 | 15:00 | Breakout Session C |
| 15:00 | 15:55 | Afternoon Tea/Coffee and Networking Suppliers and Colleagues |
| 16:00 | 16:50 | Plenary 2 - The best (and worst) of viral maths - Kyle Evans |
| 16:50 | 17:00 | Chair Closing & Thanks |
| 17:00 | 17:30 | Travel to Evening event at Kellogg College |
5 minute gaps are left between the end of some items and the start of the next to allow for travel time.
Lizzie has worked for Microsoft for the last 7 years, and most recently been responsible for the relationship with the University of Oxford. During this 3-year period Microsoft and the University have built a strategic partnership to leverage the latest and greatest of Microsoft technology to support the Universities digital ambitions. The University benefits from a very large Microsoft team who have skills ranging from security, data, AI, Sustainability and so much more.
In this plenary session, Lizzie Falkowska will share insights into the successful deployment of Microsoft products across the University of Oxford. She’ll highlight real-world success stories, showcase underused features that can boost productivity, and offer a glimpse into what’s coming next in Microsoft’s roadmap for education. The session will conclude with an open Q&A, giving you the chance to ask about tools, tips, and opportunities to make the most of Microsoft technologies in your work.
Kyle Evans is an award-winning maths communicator and writer. He has performed humorous, educational shows to audiences of all ages around the UK - from the Royal Institution to the grubbiest corners of the Edinburgh Fringe, and everywhere between. He has released several popular maths books, including 'Maths Tricks to Blow Your Mind' and 'A Year in Numbers'.
Presented by Alwyn Collinson and Colleagues
Alwyn Collinson: Alwyn is Head of the AI and ML Competency Centre, focused on how the University can support use of GenAI in research, education and administration. He is interested in the effective and sustainable use of GenAI tools, particularly their impact on the humanistic disciplines.
Alwyn helped to launch the other Competency Centres in the Digital Transformation Programme, which provide similar support for Oxford staff interested in automation, cyber security, and cloud computing for research projects. He has previously worked in Digital Scholarship at Oxford and the creation of the Sustainable Digital Scholarship repository for research data.
Breakout Session Description: Thousands of Oxford staff and students are now using services like ChatGPT every day. But what are your users actually doing with Generative AI? What support do they need, and what resources can the University provide?
The AI & ML Competency Centre will give an overview of how Generative AI tools can be accessed in ways that protect University data, enhance productivity, and open up new possibilities for teaching, learning, and working. We will also share what is on the horizon for AI at Oxford and invite you to share your technical and support needs.
Presented Dr Martin Robinson, Dr Mihaela Duta, Dr Fergus Cooper from the Research Software Engineer Group
Dr. Martin Robinson is Head of Oxford Research Software Engineering and co-director of the Interdisciplinary Life and Environmental Science BBSRC and NERC Landscape Award. With a background in numerical modelling, Bayesian inference, and software development, he has contributed to several projects including:
- PINTS – Bayesian inference for noisy time-series
- PyBaMM – Battery simulation and design
- Diffsol – Rust library for solving ODEs/DAEs
- Chaste – Simulations in biology and physiology
- Aboria – C++ library for particle-based algorithms
Dr. Mihaela Duta: Principal RSE at OxRSE, joined in 2020 after working in Experimental Psychology. Her interdisciplinary background spans engineering and psychology. She specialises in data science, interactive dashboards, data pipelines, mobile/web apps, and instrument control. Mihaela co-founded OxEd and Assessment, a spin-out recognised in the 2022 Vice-Chancellor’s Awards. She is also a founding trustee of the Society of Research Software Engineering.
Dr. Fergus Cooper: Principal RSE and Training Lead, completed his DPhil at the Wolfson Centre for Mathematical Biology. He co-founded the Oxford RSE group in 2018 and served as a trustee of the Society of RSE (2021–23). Fergus is a lead developer on Chaste and contributor to PINTS, Trase, and other open-source projects. He focuses on improving research software quality through training.
Breakout Session Description: This session introduces the Oxford Research Software Engineering (OxRSE) Group. Attendees will learn how OxRSE supports researchers across disciplines, offering specialized expertise in areas such as software design, data analysis pipelines, high-performance computing, and the development of sustainable, reproducible research software to enhance the quality, sustainability, and impact of software-driven projects. Through examples of projects, the session will demonstrate the breadth of OxRSE's work and its value to academic research. The session will also provide practical guidance on engaging with OxRSE, including cost structures, timelines, and the process for integrating RSE expertise into research initiatives.
Presented by Dr Cressida Ryan
I have previously held roles as a school teacher, Classics outreach officer, Schools Liaison and Access Officer, and Lecturer in New Testament Greek. Currently, I am a Disability Advisor at the University of Oxford, and Supernumerary Fellow at Wolfson College. I am in the process of writing a monograph on Luther’s Latin translation of the New Testament for Amsterdam University Press, alongside research into neurodivergence in education, most notably through the NESTL project. I also serve as co-editor for the Council of University Classics Departments Bulletin, and on the steering committees for the Ancient World Research Cluster (Wolfson College) and Asterion (neurodiversity in Classics hub).
Breakout Session Description:
In this presentation, I will explore theoretical frames of reference for understanding neurodivergence, embedded in their practical implications. I draw on the recently-developed NESTL toolkit for supporting neurodivergence in education, with three key strands. First, education: I offer information and guidance on what neurodivergence entails and how to recognise its traits. Second, working with neurodivergent people: what are the key challenges people face? How can we best accommodate these? Where do people stand regarding both the practical and legal implications of reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010? Third, recognising and managing one’s own neurodivergence: how might one explore one’s own neurodivergence and its implications in a safe, healthy, practical way? This will be an interactive session, but participation levels and styles are entirely up to attendees’ discretion and comfort.
https://www.education.ox.ac.uk/project/neurodivergent-education-for-stud...
Presented by Darren Collins and Jennifer Watson
Darren Collins: Darren is an endpoint management specialist for IT Services and has recently added the Chromebook management string to his bow. With his new experience in Google Workspace, he talks about how this can benefit the University with access Google Services via SSO.
Jennifer Watson: Jennifer is a Learning Technologist for the Department of Computer Science. This role means that Jennifer supports the use of technology in teaching, in whatever form that takes! In this case it was analysing the requirements for GPUs in teaching, sourcing a suitable solution and implementing the rollout.
Breakout Session Description: This talk will outline the new opportunities for access to Google services via the University's Google Workspace - incorporating the Microsoft SSO account with MFA for authentication - including Chromebook management and sign-in, and other Google services like Colab.
You will also get an opportunity to see how Google Workspace has been utilised by the Department of Computer Science, as they allocate licences of "Colab Pro" to students studying Machine Learning-related courses, in order to provide reliable access to GPU compute resources via the University SSO.
Presented by Dr Matthew Hoban
Dr Hoban is a Tutorial Fellow for Computer Science at St. Hilda’s, and an Associate Professor of Quantum Computing. Dr Hoban’s research predominantly focuses on quantum information and quantum foundations, and their intersection. He is interested in how quantum information is fundamentally different from its non-quantum counterpart and how this can be used in information processing tasks, especially those relevant to cryptography and the verification of quantum devices.
Breakout Session Description: Join us for an engaging talk exploring the fundamentals of quantum computing, its current real-world applications, and its potential to transform the future of technology. Dr Matty Hoban will break down complex ideas into accessible concepts, making this an ideal introduction for anyone curious about this rapidly evolving field. The session will include time for audience questions, so come ready to ask and explore.
Presented by Stephanie Robinson:
Stephanie is an Outreach Officer for the Department of Computer Science. She runs sessions with schools to promote and raise awareness of Computer Science. She also organises events such as masterclasses and open days, giving young people the opportunity to experience what it’s like to be taught by world-leading experts in areas such as Neural Networks, Quantum Computing, Cyber Security, and more.
Breakout Session Description:
As this year marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, our focus turns to those who helped end the war and save lives. In this session, Steph will not only explain the work of the codebreakers at Bletchley Park, but also explore the journey that led to that point—and what came after. She’ll go back to the very first use of encryption and cipher codes (when do you think that was?) and highlight the key moments in encryption following the end of World War II.
Presented by Stephen Kavanagh
Stephen leads the Workflow and Automation Competency Centre (WACC) at the University of Oxford, helping departments streamline processes through Continuous Improvement and automation. The WACC works closely with the Focus team and colleagues across the University to identify opportunities for simplification and deliver practical, sustainable solutions. His focus is on making work simpler, faster, and more consistent by using the tools available to everyone at Oxford today.
Breakout Session Description: In this session, Stephen will share real-life examples of how automation is being used across the University to simplify work, reduce admin burdens, and improve service delivery. Through a series of case studies, the talk will showcase the kinds of challenges the WACC team helps tackle, and the value of working in partnership with departments to find tailored solutions. The session will also highlight the importance of Continuous Improvement and how this powerful mindset can fix what bugs you.
Presenter Tim Edwards – Senior Customer Success Engineer
Breakout Session Description: Tanium is an IT operations and Security Platform, currently available to all colleges and departments at the University. There's many benefits, all the way from asset discovery through to patch management. This session will help you understand how IT teams can improve cyber hygiene quickly with zero additional IT infrastructure
Presented by Sarah Zama and Joe Talbot
Sarah: is the Head of User Experience at the University of Oxford where she has spent the last 12 months setting up the UX Centre of Excellence. Sarah has a sharp eye for detail, a deep commitment to accessibility and a need to turn complex language and systems into seamless, simple experiences.
Her favourite questions are 'have you spoken to users?' and 'is it accessible?'
Joe: I have worked for the University of Oxford for 25 years, designing and building websites and digital research and learning resources that are useful, usable and accessible. I believe that IT is at its most valuable and transformative when the focus is on people and outcomes rather than technology and processes.
Breakout Session Description: Looking at the critical role of UX in IT and digital transformation. Discover how a user-centred approach can increase user satisfaction, and build trust in IT. Learn about the fundamentals of UX, real-life examples, and design principles that ensure a seamless and inclusive user experience. And find out how the UX Centre of Excellence can support you.
Presented by Frances Whitfield and Darren Collins
Frances has over 7 years of experience as a Business Change Manager at OUP and more recently at IT Services. She is currently working with the Shared Infrastructure Services Programme, which is delivering the Shared Device Management Project.
Darren is an endpoint management specialist for IT Services and is working as the Technical Lead on the Shared Device Management Project. He has decades of experience with endpoint management in the civil service, corporate industry, and Oxford University.
Breakout Session Description:
Find out what the Shared Infrastructure Services Programme is, what it's for, and how it promotes cross-department collaboration using Agile working practices for its projects. Its inaugural project - Shared Device Management - is in full flow and aims to deliver a framework for endpoint management that can benefit areas across the University.
Utilising Microsoft Intune, find out what can this deliver for ITSS and their users. Your future decision-making for endpoint management will benefit from these explainers and demos. Here we explore a little of what this can mean for ITSS & endpoint management at Oxford in the future.
Presented by Converge (Stone Group)
Did you know that electronic waste is the fastest-growing waste stream on the planet? Most of us in IT know how tricky it can be to retire hardware securely, responsibly, and sustainably but it doesn’t have to be.
In this session, Converge, a preferred supplier to the University of Oxford, will talk about how using an IT Asset Disposal (ITAD) service can make a real difference to your environmental footprint and make your life easier in the process.
They’ll walk us through what happens to old IT assets when they leave your building, what makes disposal legally compliant (POPs regulations), and how the recycling or reuse process works at their award-winning, Environment Agency-permitted sites in Staffordshire and Scotland.
They’ll also share how your department can benefit from this cost-neutral and eco-conscious service including their tree-planting programme, which has already planted over 13,000 trees this year.
If you're responsible for managing end-of-life tech or just want to understand the sustainable options available to your team, this session is well worth joining.
Presented By Darren Gatenby, Head of Higher Education for Hewshott
As AV technology becomes increasingly networked and software-driven, the lines between AV and IT are rapidly disappearing. This session is designed specifically for IT professionals who want to better understand the fundamentals of audiovisual systems — cutting through jargon and making sense of the core technologies, standards, and user needs that define the AV landscape.
We’ll explore not just the hardware and infrastructure, but also the user journey: how people interact with AV in meeting rooms, classrooms, and shared spaces. Alongside the ‘what’ and the ‘how’, we’ll look at the ‘why’ — the purpose behind the systems — and how AV contributes to user experience, productivity, and collaboration.
We’ll also address common pain points in AV/IT integration and offer practical guidance on how to work effectively with AV specialists, whether you’re supporting a single meeting room or managing a campus-wide rollout.
Presented by Gerard Donohue
This presentation will explore how the latest in secure, high performance Wi-Fi networks can be integrated with IoT management and monitoring applications to create a Smart Campus environment. This approach enables a single management platform to be used for multiple systems, supporting the integration of different manufacturers, legacy technology, and the latest generation technology across CCTV, access control, alarm management and environmental monitoring. The result is simplified management with improved visibility to deliver a connected and integrated Smart Campus environment.
Presented by Simon Vine, Managing Director Total Managed Document Solutions (TMDS)
TMDS will talk about Sustainability, Information Security and how they will be embracing the different technology available. This will include discussion around Epson, Canon and Kyocera hardware and their associated software including Papercut. TMDS will include each manufacturers answers to security and their goals for Sustainability. They will also discuss cloud options open to the industry to reduce workload on IT departments whilst making sure all software is automatically updated to the latest version to ensure all the latest security and any software issues are updated immediately. TMDS will also include discussion around additional software to help connect to SSO. They will look to the future in particular Windows Protected Print driver to be launched in 2027 to help with security and how it will affect the end users. Finally, they will take all questions including pain points from the IT departments that they need and would like to overcome.
Gary Rawlins, UK AI Solutions Executive (and a true data evangelist)
In my role at Dell Technologies, I work to craft and deliver transformative AI solutions that drive real business value. In my talk I will unveil the impact of Generative AI at Dell Technologies and discuss how this cutting-edge technology is driving creativity, efficiency and new possibilities.
The AI Industry is fast moving and yet, as an AI Specialist at Dell Technologies what I hear most often is “How do I get started?”. This presentation will guide you through the Dell journey, how we got started, selected use cases and the benefits we are seeing today.
Presented by James Fletcher
Join CAE Technology for a thoughtful and practical session on how partnership led approaches are helping to shape smarter, more resilient digital environments across education.
Rather than a product showcase, this session will explore how collaboration, understanding, and trust can unlock better IT outcomes, particularly in the complex and evolving needs of the collegiate and university sector. CAE will share real insights from their work with schools, colleges, and universities, highlighting how they tailor proven solutions to what’s really needed on the ground.
Whether you're managing infrastructure, supporting users, or rethinking strategy, this is a space to reflect on how we work together, and how the right partnership can lead to, quite simply, more good days.
