BIR AI Congress 2026

The British Institute of Radiology’s 9th annual AI Congress 2026 - Scaling AI: Evidence, Ethics, Excellence took place last month. The two-day programme was designed to blend cutting-edge scientific insight with practical clinical application and strategic foresight, marking a pivotal moment as AI moves beyond pilot projects into front-line clinical care.

The opening plenary was given by Lord Nick Markham CBE, shadow minister for science, innovation and technology, and discussed the role of AI in modernising public services and the opportunities and responsibilities that come with large-scale adoption.

A highlight of day two was a talk from Professor Andrea Rockall, chair of the board of directors of the European Society of Radiology and clinical chair in radiology at Imperial College London. The session on Sustainability in Imaging showed how AI can be deployed responsibly, balancing innovation with ethical, environmental and workforce considerations that matter for long-term clinical adoption.