Research Scientist at the MIT Media Lab

Dr. Kate Darling is a leading authority on social robotics and robot ethics, recognised internationally for her pioneering work in understanding the evolving relationship between humans and machines. She is a research specialist at the MIT Media Lab, where her studies explore how technology influences society and culture. A former Fellow of the Harvard Berkman Klein Centre for Internet and Society, she also serves as an affiliate of the Institute for Ethics and Emerging Technologies. Kate is widely sought after as a speaker and advisor, contributing her expertise to discussions on the ethical implications of emerging technologies.

Credentials and Impact

Dr. Kate Darling is a highly respected figure in the technology industry whose work bridges law, ethics and advanced technology. She graduated from law school with honours and went on to earn a Doctorate of Sciences from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich. In recognition of her influential research and thought leadership, she has also been awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Sciences from Middlebury College. Early in her career, she co-taught a groundbreaking course on robot ethics at Harvard Law School with Professor Lawrence Lessig, which shaped her path towards examining the legal and social implications of robotics.

As an expert in artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics, Kate has become one of the most prominent voices in discussions about the ethical and societal impact of emerging technologies. She is a contributing writer at Robohub and IEEE Spectrum, where she provides accessible insights on complex topics, and her perspectives have been featured widely in mainstream outlets including NBC News, PC Mag and Vice. Her unique combination of legal expertise and technical knowledge has positioned her as a trusted advisor and commentator, influencing debates on how humanity should adapt to and govern the technologies shaping the future.

Publications and Media

Dr Kate Darling has made significant contributions to technology and society through her publications and media presence. She is the author of ‘The New Breed’, co-wrote ‘Creativity without Law’ and contributed to ‘En Compagnie des Robots’. Her insights have been shared on podcasts such as Science Friday and Sam Harris’ Waking Up Podcast. Kate’s work has also been widely featured in leading international outlets, including Vogue, The New Yorker, The Guardian, WIRED and The Atlantic.

Why Hire Dr. Kate Darling?

Dr. Kate Darling is booked as a technology speaker for her unique ability to explain the complex relationship between humans and intelligent machines in ways that inspire and engage diverse audiences. Her TED Talk, ‘Why We Have an Emotional Connection to Robots‘, has attracted more than 1.6 million views worldwide, reflecting her influence as a thought leader. Recognised by Robohub as one of the ’25 Women in Robotics You Need to Know About‘ and honoured as a Radar Thinker by Thinkers50, she is celebrated globally for her insights into the ethical and social dimensions of robotics. NBC News has described her as ‘one of the biggest names in science’, and she has received the Mark T Banner Award in Intellectual Property for her contributions to law and technology.

Kate has spoken at prestigious events including The Conference 2015, WebTomorrow 2015 and Montreal 2016, where she delivered highly regarded talks on human-robot relationships and robot ethics. With a combination of rigorous academic credentials and exceptional communication skills, she brings fresh perspectives on how society can navigate the challenges and opportunities of emerging technologies, making her one of the most sought-after voices in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence.

To book Kate to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.