Dr Patricia Scanlon

UCD Alumni Award in Research, Innovation and Impact 2024

PhD 2005 Electronic & Electrical Engineering

Dr Patricia Scanlon, a pioneering figure in AI, has had a 25-year career in academia and industry, including stints at Columbia University, Bell Labs, and IBM. In 2013, she founded Dublin-based SoapBox Labs, the global leader in ethical voice AI technology for children. Inspired by her eldest child, Patricia aimed to create immersive digital experiences for children of all ages and accents.

Under her leadership, SoapBox Labs achieved global acclaim and was acquired by US-based Curriculum Associates in 2023. Patricia’s innovative work earned her recognition by Forbes as one of the world’s top 50 women in tech in 2018. Beyond her entrepreneurial success, she has been a staunch advocate for ethical AI. She is the Chair of AI Council and Ireland’s AI Ambassador, spearheading national conversations on AI’s ethical implications and societal benefits. Patricia’s insights highlight that the biggest challenges with AI lie in algorithmic and societal biases, particularly in education, healthcare, and climate. Her leadership and advocacy work shape a balanced and informed perspective on the future of AI.