Northeastern University is set to host a free hybrid event in Boston on Oct. 22, 2026, focused on how technology is being used to support animal agency, wellbeing and care. The program, titled Animals + Technology: Designing for Animal Agency, Wellbeing, and Care, will bring together researchers, designers and animal-care professionals for a discussion of current and future work.
Key facts
- The event takes place Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:30 pm ET.
- The location is the Center for Design, Ryder Hall Suite 180, 11 Leon St., Boston, Massachusetts.
- Admission is free, and the event is being offered in a hybrid format.
- Participants can register in person through Reserve Tickets or attend virtually via Zoom.
- The discussion will include projects from the INTERACT Animal Lab and local partners.
What this means for students and researchers
For Northeastern students, faculty and others interested in design, computer science, animal care or human-centered technology, the event offers a chance to hear how technology is being applied in animal settings and what challenges arise when designing with and for animals. The format makes the talk accessible both on campus and online.
The event may be especially relevant to people working at the intersection of research and practice, since the program is framed around projects involving the INTERACT Animal Lab and partners at Zoo New England, the Museum of Science and the New England Aquarium. Those planning to attend in person need to reserve tickets, while virtual attendance is available through Zoom.
What will the discussion cover?
The event will center on sensing and monitoring systems, as well as interactive enrichment designed for animals themselves. Organizers say the conversation will examine past, current and future projects while also addressing practical, ethical and design questions that come up in this field.
Who is organizing the event?
Rébecca Kleinberger, an assistant professor in CAMD and Khoury College of Computer Sciences and director of the INTERACT Animal Lab, is listed as the moderator. Speaker details were not yet listed in the event notice.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Northeastern Animals + Technology event free?
Yes. The event listing says admission is free.
Can people attend online?
Yes. The event is described as hybrid, with virtual attendance available via Zoom.
