Dr Flackett’s ground-breaking AI research in the mid-1990s helped in the early understanding of AI techniques and algorithms.
These are now used by some of the best-known large language models (LLMs), including ChatGPT and Copilot.
He is a recognised leader in the AI community, focusing his work on designing and building machines that understand natural language.
His work also scaled artificial neural networks to process more sentences than was previously possible.
Dr Flackett graduated from what was then Southampton Institute as the first student to be awarded a first-class honours on the BSc (Hons) Computer Studies course, in 1996.
He went on to study a PGCert Research in 1997 and a PhD in Artificial Intelligence in 2005.
Dr Flackett said: “I am delighted to be awarded an honorary Doctor of Science from my alma mater.
“The timing is particularly apt because it’s exactly twenty years since I achieved my PhD and thirty years since I began working in AI.
“This year is also the 20th anniversary of Solent University achieving degree-awarding powers and I was one of 50 staff members who were involved in helping the university achieve this.
“I am proud to be recognised for my work in the field of AI and for my dedication to education.”
During his PhD, he began teaching at Solent University as a senior lecturer, delivering MSc and BSc Artificial Intelligence, Computer Studies and Software Engineering courses for ten years.
In 2017, Dr Flackett co-founded AiLab, an international company with offices in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
AiLab helps organisations navigate the AI landscape and trains organisations to be AI-ready.
Dr Flackett’s contributions have helped shape the future of work and business through AI.
His work at AiLab has aided thousands of people globally in their AI journey.
He remains committed to guiding individuals and organisations in responsibly adopting AI.
