Neuroscientist and complex systems engineer charting the human-AI boundary across four decades of global research
Dr Fiona Kerr is the founder of the NeuroTech Institute and FOCUS, and one of the world's most distinctive voices on the relationship between human cognition and emerging technology. With qualifications spanning complex systems engineering, cognitive neuroscience, psychology and anthropology — built across nearly forty years of work in industry, government and research — she occupies a rare position at the intersection of neuroscience, AI design and ethical practice. Her advisory roles reflect the reach of that expertise: she has served on Finland's national AI steering committee, advised the US Defence Department on AI ethics, and holds international board positions in the robotics industry, as well as a seat on the Ministerial Health and Medical Advisory Panel.
What distinguishes Dr Kerr's thinking is her focus on what human beings bring to the table that technology cannot replicate. Her research centres on human connectivity and synchronisation — how people build adaptive organisations, maintain quality relationships in a virtual world, and make deliberate choices about when to lean on AI and when to rely on distinctly human capacities. She does not argue against technology; she argues for clear-eyed thinking about the tradeoffs it demands.
She presents nationally and internationally to corporate, healthcare, government and technology audiences, and is known for making complex subject matter genuinely accessible. Her keynotes are well-suited to leadership conferences, healthcare forums, AI and innovation summits, and any event where organisations are grappling with how technology is reshaping culture, performance and human connection. Audiences leave with concrete frameworks for building organisations that are both technologically capable and deeply human.
Dr Fiona Kerr is a keynote speaker based in South Australia who speaks on artificial intelligence, innovation and leadership. Book through Executive Speakers Australia.
Dr Fiona Kerr is always so impressive. Her knowledge and presentation style are brilliant.SA Local Government Financial Management Group
I have been very active on social media making sure that the entire company knows how impactful the breakfast and particularly Fiona’s presentation was on the psychology of patient adherence to treatment, and how to change their habits, using empathy, touch and AI. I think I counted at least 6 clinicians that came up to Fiona after the breakfast to ask further questions or ask for your card.Allergan
Firstly, can I again say a very sincere and hearty thank you for your contribution to the CBA LBB conference on Monday. You were incredibly well received - the standout - so well done and, again, many thanks. I'm sure the team would be thrilled to engage you again. I hope you had a pleasant flight back, delightful to work with you, you really brought a different focus to a banking conference and in the process provoked some great insights and conversations (oh, and in passing, you ruthlessly crushed your opponent in the debate :-)) Many thanks, TimHead, LBB leadership, CBA
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