AI Evolution: from Dynamic Model to Large Language Model

In this fascinating session on Wednesday 11 February he will explore the historical and conceptual evolution of artificial intelligence, tracing its development from early dynamic and rule-based models to today’s large language models. It begins by examining foundational AI approaches, including symbolic reasoning, control systems, and statistical learning, which emphasized structured representations and task-specific intelligence.

The lecture then highlights the transition toward data-driven machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning, emphasizing how advances in computational power, data availability, and algorithms reshaped AI capabilities. The core focus is on the emergence of large language models, explaining how transformer architectures, self-supervised learning, and massive datasets enabled AI systems to achieve unprecedented levels of language understanding and generation. The lecture also discusses the implications of this shift, including scalability, generalization, ethical considerations, and the changing role of humans in AI-assisted decision-making and research. By the end, participants will gain a clear understanding of how AI evolved into its current form and what this evolution means for future innovation and responsible use.

Professor Zhang’s specialist area of research is data-driven complex system design and analysis including control, filtering and optimisation. He is a Chartered Engineer, Senior Member in Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and a Fellow of Higher Education Academy. Currently serving as an Associate Editor for leading journals, e.g. the Journal of Intelligent Manufacturing and others. He is also a member of Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council Peer-review CollegeInaugural lectures are celebration of our academics’ outstanding research excellence and an achievement of contributions to their field of research. These celebratory events will enable the University to come together to give conferment to academics who have achieved the accolade of Professorship and Associate Professorship.

This is your chance to ask questions and delve deeper into the topics discussed. Everyone is welcome and these lectures are free to attend.

Each event is recorded and can be viewed in the series link on the website.