Dr Charlotte Bates (BatesC2@cardiff.ac.uk)
Cardiff University,
Dr Robin Mann (r.mann@bangor.ac.uk)
Bangor University,
Dr Steve Garner (s.j.garner@swansea.ac.uk)
Swansea University,
Dr Krijn Peters (K.Peters@Swansea.ac.uk)
Swansea University,
Overview
The Sociology and Science and Technology Studies Pathway is a partnership between Cardiff University, Bangor University and Swansea University. The pathway reflects the WGSSS’s cross-Wales approach to training provision and cohort building. This allows for research training innovation and capacity building through a range of networked opportunities that are realised through partnership and collaboration. The pathway is connected to key research institutes, centres and groups based across Welsh Institutions (e.g. WISERD) and is underpinned by opportunities for supervision by internationally recognised sociologists and academic experts working in the field of science and technology studies.
The pathway is supported by significant research capacity and expertise across a range of research themes and topics that include: the study of socio-digital futures and society, the social and ethical implications of biomedicine, science, society and expertise, diversity, inclusion and social inequalities, environmental sustainability, planetary health and the study of place and community.
Environment for doctoral research and training
The pathway provides advanced training in quantitative and qualitative methods, ethnography, methodological innovation, policy impact, social theory and contemporary approaches to understanding science and technology. The pathway integrates opportunities for participation in regular research events, an annual postgraduate conference, and a range of additional activities that are offered within a thriving and interconnected research culture, network and environment supported across participating institutions. In addition to this the pathway provides a range of international opportunities, fostered through a diverse and international research student profile, established research connections across Europe, the USA, Southeast Asia and the Global South and a research culture oriented to Wales, the UK and beyond. Participation in and support for international conferences, inclusive of those sponsored by the ASA, ESA and the BSA and funded international research collaboration remain a key feature of the research activity and culture underpinning the pathway and its realisation through expert supervision and wider research training opportunities and support.
Knowledge exchange and careers
Knowledge exchange opportunities are enhanced through connections with government, public organisations, the voluntary sector and commercial organisations. Opportunities for placements with some of these organisations (e.g. Welsh Government) alongside shorter engagement opportunities are facilitated as a regular feature of the research culture and environment fostered by the pathway and WGSSS. The pathway provides an excellent opportunity and gateway to an academic career, research careers in government and the civil service, employment by non-governmental organisations, higher level public service management and work in the commercial sector.
