Anna Aston confirmed as chair of inaugural Artificial Intelligence Working Group

We are delighted to announce Anna Aston as chair of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Working Group. Anna specialises in the intersection of artificial intelligence and research operations, drawing on over a decade of experience across higher education, research funding and research operations. She oversees operations in the Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care (APMIC) at Imperial College, spanning HR, finance, pre- and post-award management, and education. She is also an ARMA-certified Research Manager.

Anna is active in community-led discussions on AI in research operations and founded AIRON: a space for practitioners to explore practical and ethical approaches to emerging technologies. Her work reflects a strong interest in how AI can streamline complex workflows while supporting responsible, human-centred practice.

She speaks at major conferences and contributes written perspectives on AI adoption in research operations. Anna has presented at events such as the ARMA annual conference and the INORMS Congress and participates in panel discussions as both a panellist and moderator. Her work has appeared in Research Professional News, ARMA Insights and the LSE Impact Blog. She writes a personal blog offering accessible insights on the evolving capabilities, risks and opportunities of AI for research operations.

As chair, Anna will lead the working group in its objective to advance ARMA’s knowledge and understanding of AI as it relates to research management, and to provide recommendations for potential future directions and activities. We are seeking additional members to join the AI working group, with the call for expressions of interest closing on Friday 16 January 2026.