Computing
Meet the Team
"In the rapidly evolving domain of social computing, I am an enthusiastic researcher working at the forefront of discovering solutions through the analysis of social media opinions. My focus lies in exploring sentiments to identify opportunities for addressing pressing social issues, leveraging the power of Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques such as sentiment analysis and text analytics.
With a dedication to advancing knowledge and finding practical applications, my research has led to the publication of over 70 papers indexed in Scopus. This body of work includes a diverse range of contributions, comprising a book, journal articles, conference full and short papers, book chapters, and newsletter publications. Emphasizing the significance of my work, my H-index stands at 16, while the i10 Index reaches 22, reflecting the reach of my research.
A notable aspect of my research is the fruitful collaboration with external grant funding, where successful projects have yielded important outcomes. By combining the latest insights from social media with cutting-edge NLP techniques, my work has unveiled innovative solutions for tackling societal challenges, ranging from public opinion analysis to sentiment-driven interventions.
In addition to my research accomplishments, I have also been actively involved in nurturing and guiding the next generation of researchers. As a mentor to masters and PhD students, I take pride in seeing them succeed and witnessing the outcomes of our collaborative efforts reflected in joint publications. Their contributions have enriched the field of social computing and attest to the positive impact of mentorship in academic pursuits.
Beyond my research and mentorship, I have actively engaged in the peer-review process for international journals and conferences, often serving as a reviewer for prestigious tier 1 and tier 2 publications. The depth of my expertise in the domain has led to invitations to speak at conferences and assume the role of a Chair for various program committees, further solidifying my position as a respected and influential figure in the field.
Throughout my academic journey, my research findings have consistently showcased the potential of social media data for understanding complex human behaviours and sentiments. By harnessing the power of NLP techniques, I have successfully illuminated pathways for addressing social challenges with data-driven insights. My commitment to driving positive change and my passion for exploring the untapped potential of social computing continue to be the driving force behind my achievements.
Looking ahead, I remain devoted to pushing the boundaries of research in social computing, finding novel solutions, and fostering a collaborative and supportive academic community. With each new publication and mentorship success, I strive to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of social computing and its transformative impact on society.
I have plenty of experience supervising Master by Research and PhD students at Sunway University, Malaysia. I am open for project supervision, please contact me via phoey.teh@glyndwr.ac.uk."
Richard is a multi-award winning Senior Lecturer and the Subject Leader for Computing at Wrexham Glyndwr University. He is also the current Global Regional Coordinator and Executive Committee member for Global Game Jam.
With more than 20 years experience as an academic and free-lance developer, he is the founder of Games Talent Wales; the first Welsh nationally funded game talent development programme, specialising in the support and creation of sustainable indie game studios.
Richard is a member of BAFTA Cymru, and is also the Tranzfuser Local Hub Coordinator for North Wales (based at WGU) where he established the Level Up Wales initiative which has grown to become the most successful business accelerators and game industry partnership programmes in Wales.
His primary research interests involve the use of game technology within education in addition to the practicalities of game development such as production management, optimisation of graphical rendering, immersive game design and artificial intelligence systems for games.
Winner - F. Jones Initiative Award, 2022
Winner - Grads in Games, Academic of the Year, 2020.
Finalist - Grads in Games - University of the Year Award, 2020.
Finalist - UK Games Fund Local Community Spirit Award, 2019.
Finalist - UK Games Fund Local Tranzfuser Hub of the Year, 2019.
Finalist - Grads in Games - University of the Year Award, 2019.
Winner - UK Games Fund Community Contributor of the Year, 2018.
Winner - UK Games Fund Local Tranzfuser Hub of the Year, 2018.
Having clocked up over 30+ years’ service at Wrexham University (WGU), Julie has worked in many departments, both operational and academic, and seen, and been part of the continued development of the University. Her current role is as Senior Lecturer in Computing, and Programmer Leader for Computer Science and Computing.
Julie’s qualifications include a BSc (Hons) in Business Information Technology, MA in Education, a Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Development in Higher Education, and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA). She is currently researching the pedagogical potential of using robots in an educational environment. Other areas of interest include ‘building digital capabilities at WGU’ and ‘evaluating reading skills among primary school children using a robotic dog’.
Rachel Rowley
Rachel’s current role is as Lecturer in Computing and Games at Wrexham University. Specialising in Video Game Development and Technical Artistry, with focused teaching on Industry Standard Workflow Techniques, Games Programming, 3D production pipelines and Game Ready Asset Development.
Her primary research interests cover Mental Health and Video Games, with a focused look at Applied / Serious Game development. She is currently researching and developing a serious game which combines Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with gameplay mechanics and storytelling.
Rachels qualifications include BSc (Hons) Computer Games Development, MSc Computer Games Development and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA).
Site organiser for Global Game Jam Next at Wrexham University.
Winner - Grads in Games, Student Hero Award, 2020.
Finalist and Game showcased at EGX – Tranzfuser, 2019.
Michael Macaulay
"Mechanical inspection and maintenance operations across many UK industries such as aerospace, manufacturing, rail transport, renewable energy, oil and gas, water, etc. are rapidly being automated. Along with this rapid shift from manual inspection to advanced monitoring tools (such as digital twins), many businesses are deploying smart multi-sensor technologies including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) for inspection and maintenance processes. This transition serves to enhance efficiency, reduce risk, and drive down inspection costs while maintaining the high standards of safety and accuracy.
It is to this end that I have engaged on an interdisciplinary doctoral research project that incorporates Artificial Intelligence, robotics and the inspection and maintenance of mechanical infrastructure. The project is designed to automate data collection of civil and mechanical infrastructure conditions through the deployment of a robotic and autonomous drone platform; automate and optimize the analysis of data collected, identifying potential issues and deterioration patterns and inform maintenance-based decision-making, by leveraging state-of-the-art artificial intelligence techniques."
