Natural language processing and machine learning applied to educational technology. Modelling student engagement in online courses through automated analysis of discussion forum messages.

Previous work looked at language and communication, educational technology, behaviour change, digital personhood, health informatics, natural language interaction to support learning.

2023 PhD, Data Science, University of Edinburgh

2018 MSc by Research (Distinction), Data Science, University of Edinburgh

2012 PG Cert, Academic Practice, Heriot-Watt University

1997 MSc (Distinction), Computer Science, University of Edinburgh

1996 BSc Hons (1st class), Theoretical Physics - Logic & Philosophy of Science, University of St Andrews

I work in the Institute for Language, Cognition and Computation within the School of Informatics at the University of Edinburgh. My research focus is on using technology to investigate, understand and facilitate human communication. My work uses natural language interaction to support learning (tutorial dialogue systems), to improve wellbeing (health informatics and digital personhood), and to influence behaviour change (domestic energy feedback). Earlier in my career I spent time in industry developing and implementing novel classification algorithms for customer data analytics. I also have extensive experience in public engagement.