The Robot Uprising
(Why It Won’t Be What You Expect)
Step into the future with Blair Wilson from The National Robotarium, the UK’s leading centre for robotics and artificial intelligence. In this special add-on talk, you’ll discover how intelligent machines are transforming the world around us, from healthcare and hazardous environments to creative industries and everyday life.

From its home at Heriot-Watt University, The National Robotarium combines cutting-edge industrial robotics with Human-Robot Interaction research to shape the future of intelligent machines that can help us live, and work, better. This add-on is more than just a talk, it’s a rare opportunity to engage directly with innovations normally seen only inside research labs. Learn about the different kinds of AI, discuss the future emergence of autonomous tech, and witness the groundbreaking advances happening right here in Scotland as Blair demonstrates some of his favourite robots live on stage.
Ask questions, interact with live demonstrations, and experience first-hand how robotics and AI are changing the way we live and work.
Before and after the talk, explore your inner scientist at Science Lates: Timewarp and celebrate 25 years of the science centre.
- Time-Travel Adventure – Past, present, and future collide.
- Retro Exhibits & Arcade – Classic displays and nostalgic games.
- Escape Room Challenge – Beat the clock with NPL’s puzzle.
- Community Forum – Share memories and shape the future.
- Hands-On Fun – Experiments and expert stations all night.
- Dress Up – Bring your Y2K vibes!
- Enjoy tasty food and drink – available to buy throughout the night
Science Lates takes place in the Science Mall from 6pm and finishes at 10pm.
Book Science Lates entry from 6pm and your seat below for the talk in our Science Show Theatre at 7pm, or 8.30pm. Each talk is 60 minutes. The hour includes a 45-minute presentation and 15 min Q&A session.
Please note that this event is strictly adults only (18+). If you're lucky enough to look younger than 25 you must bring a valid form of photo I.D. Anyone under the age of 18 or without valid I.D. will be refused entry.
When is this on?
| Friday 13th March | 19:00, 20:30 |
This event is available as a standalone event. The tickets can be purchased below