The brainstorming session “From Deep Time to Deep Learning: Unlocking Palaeosciences through Palaeobiological Data and AI Innovation” marked a significant step towards integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) with palaeoscience research in India. Organized by the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP), Lucknow, the programme brought together leading palaeoscientists, AI experts, academicians, policymakers, and young researchers to explore emerging opportunities at the intersection of palaeobiology and data science.

Held under the patronage of Prof. M.G. Thakkar, Director, BSIP, and convened by Dr. Anjali Trivedi, Scientist ‘E’, BSIP, the event served as a dynamic platform for interdisciplinary discussions on the application of AI, Machine Learning, and advanced computational approaches in palaeobotany, palynology, and microfossil research. Experts deliberated on the development of digital repositories, automated micro-fossil identification systems, high-quality training datasets, and innovative analytical frameworks for palaeobiological investigations. Through invited talks, expert interactions, and an engaging panel discussion, participants examined key scientific, technical, legal, and ethical challenges associated with AI-enabled research. The programme also highlighted future directions for collaborative research, capacity building, and infrastructure development required to advance this rapidly evolving field.

Held on 12 May 2026 at BSIP, Lucknow, the session laid the foundation for bridging deep-time records with modern computational technologies, opening new avenues for scientific discovery and innovation in palaeosciences.