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Expert Lectures: A Comprehensive Exploration of Artificial Intelligence
The core courses of the winter camp were led by Dr. Adel Bibi, a Senior Researcher in Machine Learning and Computer Vision at Oxford’s Department of Engineering Science. He is also a Junior Research Fellow at Kellogg College and a member of the European Laboratory for Learning and Intelligent Systems (ELLIS). Dr. Bibi is a leading figure in machine learning and computer vision research, driving advancements in AI technologies.

During the winter camp, Zhejiang University students delved into various key areas of artificial intelligence and machine learning, covering topics such as:

•  Introduction to Machine Learning & Its Applications: Understanding the fundamentals of machine learning and its real-world applications in areas like finance, healthcare, and autonomous driving.

•  Supervised Learning (Regression & Classification): Mastering classical methods like linear regression, logistic regression, and multiclass classification, along with their mathematical foundations.

•  Neural Networks & Deep Learning: Exploring multilayer perceptrons (MLPs), activation functions, and optimization techniques, establishing a strong foundation for further deep learning research.

•  Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) & Computer Vision: Investigating the use of CNNs in image classification, object detection, and other computer vision tasks.

•  Large Language Models (LLM) & Generative AI: Studying the architecture, training methodologies, and reinforcement learning (RLHF) techniques behind models like Cha

• tGPT.

•  Machine Learning Security & Adversarial Attacks: Analyzing potential security threats to AI systems and discussing strategies to mitigate adversarial attacks.

•  Machine Learning Project Practice: With guidance from mentors, students created and trained their own LLM using a small Shakespearean text dataset, refining their skills in data analysis, modeling, and optimization.

In addition, Professor Philip H. S. Torr, a renowned expert in computer vision and AI at Oxford, delivered special lectures. He is a Professor at Oxford’s Department of Engineering Science, a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering (FREng), and has previously worked at Microsoft Research Cambridge. His contributions to computer vision, deep learning, autonomous driving, and AI for healthcare have been significant.

During his lectures, Professor Torr and other scholars shared insights into AI applications across various fields, such as autonomous driving, medical imaging, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision, giving students a well-rounded understanding of the latest industry trends and research directions.

Dr. Torr Lecturing

Throughout the program, Zhejiang University students demonstrated strong computational skills and exceptional research abilities, engaging actively with Oxford professors and peers. Through deep discussions with faculty members, they not only expanded their academic knowledge but were also inspired by their professors’ insights, broadening their perspectives and receiving valuable guidance for both their studies and personal development.

Professor Bibi answering questions

Cross-Cultural Exchange: Immersing in Oxford’s Academic Atmosphere
Beyond the intense academic schedule, the winter camp offered numerous cross-cultural exchange activities and excursions, giving Zhejiang University students a chance to explore British history and culture.

• Oxford Cultural Experience: Students visited the Bodleian Library, immersing themselves in the rich academic heritage of one of the world’s top universities. They also attended an Evensong service, experiencing the solemn choral tradition in an Oxford chapel.

On the left: Radcliffe Camera, on the right: chapel of New College

• Two-Day Trip to London:

•  Day 1: Students toured Fuller’s Brewery, learning about traditional British craft beer brewing and enjoying guided tastings. Later, they visited the British Museum, marveling at historical artifacts and the intersection of history and technology.

On the left: robot at Fuller’s, on the right: Assyrian Empire Relief Murals in the British Museum

On the left: House of Parliament, on the right: Windsor Castle

• Day 2: Students explored the Houses of Parliament, gaining insights into the British parliamentary system, followed by a visit to Windsor Castle, one of the oldest, still-in-use castles in the world, to learn about British royal history and traditions.

Pub Hour!

Pub Hour Networking Event: In a relaxed setting, students had the opportunity to engage in informal discussions with Oxford professors, researchers, and fellow participants, exchanging ideas on the future of AI, as well as their academic and career aspirations.

These activities provided Zhejiang University students with a chance to immerse themselves in British culture and history, broadening their international perspectives and enhancing their cross-cultural communication skills.

Looking Ahead: Zhejiang University Students Striving for AI Excellence
The winter camp offered Zhejiang University Computer Science students an invaluable opportunity to engage with world-class scholars at Oxford. They not only deepened their understanding of frontier AI technologies but also honed their critical thinking and cross-cultural communication skills.

Many participants shared that the experience fueled their passion for AI research and helped shape their academic and career paths. Looking ahead, Zhejiang University students are poised to continue making strides in AI research, driving technological innovation, and showcasing their talents on the global AI stage.