Melanie Smallman

Melanie Smallman is an Associate Professor in the Department of Science and Technology Studies at University College London (UCL), where she also serves as the Co-Director of the Science Communication & Responsible Research and Innovation Hub. Her academic focus lies in the social impacts of science and technology, particularly how these influences shape public perceptions of emerging technologies and inform public policy.

Academic Background and Research Interests

Dr. Smallman's research examines the intersection between science, technology, and social issues, specifically exploring how advancements can exacerbate economic inequality and affect public attitudes towards science. She emphasizes the importance of ethical frameworks in addressing these challenges within public policy. Recently, she contributed to the Data Ethics stream of the UK Pandemic Ethics Accelerator, which addressed data ethics during the COVID-19 pandemic.125

Current Roles and Contributions

• Position: Associate Professor and Co-Director at UCL since September 2020.
• Teaching: She is involved in teaching courses related to science policy, science communication, and data ethics.
• Publications: Dr. Smallman is currently on sabbatical to write a book that discusses technology, inequality, and populism, reflecting her commitment to addressing contemporary social issues through the lens of science communication.134

Professional Affiliations

In addition to her teaching and research roles, Melanie Smallman is a member of UCL's Research Ethics Committee and the AI in Education Committee, further highlighting her engagement with ethical considerations in technology and education.12

Through her work, Dr. Smallman aims to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and societal needs, advocating for responsible research practices that consider broader social implications.