Sage Campus Instructors

Dr Eric Addae-Kyeremeh 

Eric is the Head of School in the School of Education, Childhood, Youth and Sport at The Open University. He is Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (now Advance HE) and has over 20 years of professional experience in teaching, research, and consultancy in educational technologies, leadership, and policy. Eric holds Fellowships from BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT and the Chartered Management Institute for his leadership in education and training.

Dr James Allen-Robertson 

James is a Computational Social Scientist at the University of Essex, specializing in data science tools for social science problems. He directs the BSc Sociology with Data Science program and is the author of Digital Culture Industry: A History of Digital Distribution. James believes in integrating technology and social science.

Dr Brian Alleyne 

Brian is a sociologist specializing in digital cultures, speculative fiction, and narrative methods. He earned a PhD in Social Anthropology from the University of Cambridge in 1999 and taught sociology at Goldsmiths, University of London, until 2024, when he transitioned to full-time writing. His book Radicals Against Race (2002) won the British Sociological Association’s Philip Abrams Memorial Prize. He also authored Narrative Networks (2015) and Geek and Hacker Stories (2018). His current work explores digital tech narratives in the Atlantic Global South, culture wars, and New Beacon circle activism.

Dr Angela Boland 

Angela is an academic health economist specializing in economic evaluation within Health Technology Assessment. She has worked at the University of Liverpool for nearly 30 years and is Director of the Liverpool Reviews and Implementation Group (LRiG) and Co-Director of the Liverpool Evidence Synthesis Group (LENS). Angela holds degrees in Spanish and Economics, Health Economics, and Higher Education. She is the co-editor of Doing a Systematic Review: A Student’s Guide.

Josh Brindley 

Josh is an expert in Data Visualization and Storytelling, specializing in transforming complex data into compelling insights. With experience designing dashboards and presenting data, he has taught over 45,000 students through courses, workshops, and industry events. As a corporate trainer and speaker, he has led workshops for businesses and spoken at top industry associations. Passionate about bridging data and decision-making, he helps professionals turn analysis into powerful stories that drive action, making storytelling a game-changer for any career.

Dr Phillip Brooker 

Phillip is a Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the University of Liverpool, whose work sees him applying ethnomethodology to studies of computer technologies (including social media, artificial intelligence, and computer coding itself). His work in digital methods has been driven towards exploring computer programming as a social research method (see Programming with Python for Social Scientists) and more recently, the use of maker skills including 3D printing and electronics engineering as ways of re-examining the relationship of technology with society and social practice.

Dr Charlotte Brookfield 

Charlotte is a Reader at Cardiff University’s School of Social Sciences. She researches the role of quantitative methods in the social sciences and co-directs Cardiff University’s Q-Step Centre. She engages with external partners to provide students with hands-on research experience. Charlotte co-edits International Journal of Social Research Methodology and co-authored Completing Your Research Project with Jamie Lewis. She also co-convenes a large undergraduate dissertation module.

Dr Tom Chatfield 

Tom is a British author and tech philosopher with a special interest in critical thinking, AI and tech ethics. His most recent book is Wise Animals, an exploration of the co-evolution of humanity and technology. Tom’s non-fiction books exploring digital culture have appeared in over thirty languages. His critical thinking textbooks and online courses, developed in partnership with Sage Publishing, are used by schools, businesses and universities across the world. He’s also an experienced Chair, Non-Executive Director, advisor and speaker across the private and public sectors.

Dr Gemma Cherry 

Gemma is an academic clinical psychologist researching ways to improve the experiences of people with long-term health conditions, especially cancer. A Senior Lecturer in Clinical Health Psychology at the University of Liverpool, she also holds an honorary Clinical Psychology post at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Trust. She has published over 30 evidence syntheses and the lead editor of Doing a Systematic Review: A Student’s Guide. Her expertise in evidence synthesis methodology dates back to 2008.

Dr Peter Civetta 

Peter is the Director of the Office of Undergraduate Research at Northwestern University, advising students on grants and research initiatives. An Assistant Professor of Instruction in the Theater Department, he teaches performance and culture, focusing on religion, politics, and comedy. A former professional actor, he holds a BA in Theatre from Boston College, an MA from San Francisco State, and a PhD from Cornell. His research explores comedy’s cultural impact and performance in religious and ethical beliefs. He also runs a children's theatre nonprofit.

Dr Matthew Denny 

Dr Lee Fallin 

Lee is a Lecturer in Education Studies and Director of MA Education Programmes at the University of Hull. His research focuses on learning technology, accessibility, and the intersections of education and geography in physical and digital spaces. An expert in diverse research methods, he supports students and staff at all levels. Lee is an NVivo Certified Expert, Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, and Fellow of the Association of Learning Technology, with experience leading research methods and dissertation modules.

Brian Fogarty 

Brian is Associate Director at the Lucy Family Institute, overseeing the Center for Social Science Research. He is also a Concurrent Associate Professor of the Practice in Political Science at Notre Dame. His research focuses on the news media as a strategic political actor and perceptions of voter and electoral fraud. Previously, he was a lecturer at the University of Glasgow’s Q-Step Centre and an Associate Professor at the University of Missouri–St. Louis. He holds a PhD in Political Science from UNC–Chapel Hill.

Dr Charlie Hadley 

Dr Randal Sean Harrison 

Randy is a faculty member in Emerging Technologies at the Hesburgh Libraries, University of Notre Dame. He helps faculty, staff, and students identify, evaluate, and use emerging technologies and online tools to enhance research and student success. He also serves as a concurrent associate teaching professor across Notre Dame, including the Mendoza College of Business, where he teaches Data Storytelling and impactful presentation techniques. His work focuses on leveraging technology for learning and engagement.

Jonatan Hildén 

Jonatan is an information designer and co-founder of Koponen+Hildén, a design studio established in 2014. Working in graphic and information design since 2006, he teaches information design at Aalto University, LAB University of Applied Sciences, and other Finnish universities.

Diana Hopkins 

Prof Gabe Ignatow 

Gabe is a Professor at the University of North Texas, specializing in sociological theory and digital research methods. He serves on the editorial boards of Sociological Forum and the Journal for the Theory of Social Behavior and has authored several books on text mining and digital social research methods.

Dr Melissa Jogie

Melissa is the Director for Research Culture, Impact, and Early Career Development at the University of Roehampton. An Associate Professor, she researches human flourishing among marginalized groups. A UKRI Policy Fellow (2024–25), she has secured over £1.4 million in funding and led 24 projects. She co-directs Advance HE’s Diversifying Leadership Programme and leads research leadership initiatives. Melissa earned her PhD at ANU in 2017, with a Visiting Fellowship at Oxford in 2015. Visit her website for more.

Dr Shantoyia (Toy) Jones 

Toy is an Associate Professor of Psychology and Director of the Women’s Studies Program at Xavier University of Louisiana. A counseling psychologist, she has worked with survivors of sex trafficking, political torture, and sexual violence while leading community justice initiatives. Her research explores trauma, identity, sexual health, and sisterhood in Black and BIPOC communities. Committed to activist scholarship, she affirms Black women’s lived experiences as knowledge and develops community interventions for emotional and psychological well-being.

Dr Shatonda S Jones 

Shatonda is an Associate Professor and Director of Clinical Education in the MS in Speech-Language Pathology Program at St. Bonaventure University. A Speech-Language Pathologist with 20 years of experience, she specializes in adult and geriatric communication and swallowing disorders, with a focus on motor speech disorders. Her research explores health capacity in marginalized communities, cultural and linguistic diversity, and innovative education. A Certified Brain Injury Specialist Trainer, she holds a PhD in Therapeutic Science from the University of Kansas.

Basia Kapolka 

Basia is the Digital Humanities Librarian at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. With a background in theater and philosophy, she is passionate about storytelling and continuously asking the question, “why?” She was drawn to digital humanities for its ability to merge these interests, using technology to explore timeless human questions and present the findings in innovative ways.

Dr Helen Kara 

Helen, an independent researcher since 1999, specializes in research methods and ethics. An independent scholar since 2011, she teaches doctoral students and also mentors university staff globally. Helen's publications, including Qualitative Research for Quantitative Researchers and books in the Sage Little Quick Fix series, reflect her lifelong special interests in words, language, and writing. Diagnosed as autistic in 2021, she brings unique insights to her work.

Andy Kirk 

Andy is an independent data visualization expert and founder of Visualising Data Ltd., based in the UK. He delivers a range of professional services to clients worldwide, specialising in data visualization design training and consultancy. He is an adjunct lecturer on the MSc Business Analytics programme at University College London (UCL), a three-times published author, a researcher, and sought-after speaker. He has been editor of visualisingdata.com since 2009 and is the host of the ‘Explore Explain’ video and podcast series.

Laura Koivunen-Niemi 

Laura is an information designer at Koponen+Hildén. A visual designer since 2009, she previously worked as a graphic and multimedia designer in California for private and public agencies and later in news graphics at Finnish broadcaster Yle. She joined Koponen+Hildén in 2018.

Juuso Koponen 

Juuso is an information designer and data journalist with a background in visual communication design since 1999. He teaches information design and data journalism at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, Aalto University, and other Finnish universities.

Prof Maria KE Lahman 

Maria is a professor of qualitative methodology at the University of Northern Colorado, in Colorado, USA. She is the author of the Sage textbooks Ethics in Social Science Research: Becoming Culturally Responsive and  Writing and Representing Qualitative Research. Maria challenges herself to weave social justice and peacebuilding aspects into her pedagogy and scholarship. Maria's scholarship is focused on creating ethical solutions for culturally complex methodological situations, diversity, young children, mothering, and qualitative writing representation. 

Dr Jamie Lewis 

Jamie is a Reader in Sociology at Cardiff University’s School of Social Sciences. His research focuses on Science and Technology Studies. He directs postgraduate taught studies, co-convenes a final-year dissertation module with Charlotte Brookfield, and has developed courses on science, disasters, and society. Jamie co-edits Qualitative Research, serves as an external examiner at UCL, and co-authored Completing Your Research Project with Charlotte.

Dr Leo S Lo

Leo serves as the Dean and Professor at the College of University Libraries and Learning Sciences at the University of New Mexico. He is also the President-Elect of the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL). His work centers on integrating AI into library services and advancing AI literacy. Currently, he leads his university’s AI Empowerment Initiatives, which aim to elevate the community’s AI literacy and teach intelligent, responsible use of the technology. Dr. Lo holds a doctorate degree in Higher Education Management from the University of Pennsylvania, an MLIS from Florida State University, and master’s degrees in both Screenwriting and Survey Research.

Prof John MacInnes 

John is an emeritus professor of Sociology and Statistics at the University of Edinburgh. With research interests ranging from social demography to gender studies, he has made significant contributions to quantitative skills development. He served as Vice President of the Royal Statistical Society and played a key role in developing the UK Q-Step programme.

Dr Michelle Maden 

Michelle is a Lecturer in Evidence Synthesis at the Liverpool Evidence Synthesis Group (LENS), University of Liverpool. A qualified information specialist with over 20 years of experience, she has contributed to major evidence synthesis grants funded by NIHR, WHO, and The UK Health Foundation. Her PhD explored integrating health inequality considerations in systematic reviews. Michelle supervises Master’s and PhD students and holds a PG Cert in Higher Education Teaching and Learning Support.

Dr Rob Mastrodomenico 

Rob holds a BSc in Mathematics and Statistics and a PhD in Statistics from the University of Reading. As a data scientist in the sports sector, he focuses on building predictive models for sporting events. He founded Global Sports Statistics in 2011, offering consultancy and modeling services. He advocates for Python for data modeling and analysis.

Prof Rada Mihalcea 

Rada is a Professor at the University of Michigan, specializing in computational linguistics and computational social sciences. She serves on the editorial boards of several prestigious journals and has made significant contributions to the field of natural language processing. Her research focuses on lexical semantics and multilingual NLP.

Dr Andreea Moldovan 

Andreea is a Data Scientist in the financial services sector. With a background in sociology and social research methods, she specializes in latent variable modeling, longitudinal data analysis, and machine learning techniques. Passionate about R, she conducts demonstrations to encourage social scientists to explore its capabilities.

Sarah Morris 

Sarah is a librarian, educator, and curriculum designer whose work focuses on critical information and media literacy, misinformation, civic engagement, student success, and library and information science education. She has held positions at Loyola University Chicago and the University of Texas and served as the Head of Instruction and Engagement at the Emory University Libraries. Sarah has worked on curriculum projects with partners that include the Mozilla Foundation and the Carter Center. She currently works as an instructional designer and consultant and is pursuing her PhD in Communication and Information Sciences from the University of Alabama. 

Dr Zina O’Leary 

Zina is an internationally-recognized leader in research methodologies, focusing on applied research and evidence-based decision-making. She is a Senior Fellow at the Australia and New Zealand School of Government and an adjunct Professor at the Joseph R. Biden School of Public Policy at the University of Delaware.

Dr Eleni Papadonikolaki

Eleni is an Associate Professor in the Management of Engineering Projects and Head of Section Integral Design & Management at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). She is also Founding Partner of Digital Outlook. Eleni conducts industry-relevant research and consulting on management, projects, social science, and digital economy.

Dr Alex Poole 

Alex (PhD, Oklahoma State University, 2003) is an applied linguist specializing in focus on form instruction, Spanish-English bilingualism, and reading strategies. He publishes regularly and presents at national and international conferences. He teaches composition, TESOL methodology, and pedagogical grammar. Outside of teaching and research, he lectures on English language learner issues and reviews scholarly submissions for peer-reviewed journals.

Carol Rivas 

Carol’s background in applied health services research spans ethology, secondary data analysis, and health economics. With an MSc in Cognitive Neuropsychology, she specialized in aphasia and autism, fueling interests in psycholinguistics and AI. At Queen Mary University of London, she worked on a Cochrane review, leading to her PhD in Medical Sociology. She led NIHR’s qualitative methodology stream and public engagement work. Focused on e- and m-health for vulnerable groups, she also leads an EDI module, co-edits a Sage textbook, and serves as a Lead Quality Assessor.

Dr Janet E Salmons 

Janet is a free-range scholar and methodologist. She manages the Sage Research Methods Community (formerly known as Methodspace). She authored Doing Qualitative Research Online and is a 2024 Fellow at the Center for Advanced Internet Studies.

Prof Julie Scott Jones 

Julie is a Sociology professor at Manchester Metropolitan University. She founded and led the Manchester Metropolitan Q-Step Centre, securing £1.15 million in funding to advance quantitative research training. Her work includes co-authoring journal articles on quantitative pedagogy, editing a five-volume research ethics collection, and co-authoring Exploratory and Descriptive Statistics. She teaches undergraduate quantitative research methods, specializing in data analysis.

Prof Paul Silvia 

Paul is the Lucy Spinks Keker Excellence Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, USA, where he teaches graduate-level statistics and research methods. His research explores the psychology of creativity and the arts, such as how people come up with good ideas and what makes art interesting and appealing. He has written many books, including Exploring the Psychology of Interest and How to Write a Lot. 

Prof Jonathan Slapin 

Jon studied political science at Rutgers University and was a DAAD scholarship holder at the University of Konstanz. In 2007, he received his doctorate from the University of California in Los Angeles. His research focuses on democratic politics, political parties, and legislative politics. Since 2019, he has been Professor of Political Institutions and European Politics at the University of Zurich. He previously held positions at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Houston, and the University of Essex, where he served as Director of the Essex Summer School in Social Science Data Analysis.

Victoria Taborelli 

Victoria is a PhD candidate in Hispanic Studies at Brown University, specializing in Latin American literature and performance. Her dissertation examines public and private archives in contemporary Latin American theatre and narrative, focusing on memory, gender studies, and ecocriticism. She explores Digital Humanities to enhance her research through interdisciplinary text analysis and broader scholarly engagement. Passionate about the field, she is eager to share her insights and discoveries.

Dr Nicola Thomas 

Nicola is the Director of Disco Analytics, a global learning insights agency. She works with businesses of all sizes, using quantitative and qualitative research to generate insights. Formerly an Associate Professor in Marketing at De Montfort University, she taught research-focused modules at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. With a transdisciplinary PhD, her work applies systems thinking to areas like sustainability, social media analytics, and the links between learning, organizational performance, and employee engagement.

Dr Robert Thomas 

Rob is a lecturer in Marketing and Strategy at Cardiff Business School, specializing in Brand Management. His research interests include sponsorship, fandom, co-creation, and brand community. His work has been published in several prestigious journals, and he serves on the editorial boards for the Journal of Product and Brand Management and International Journal of Sport Management and Marketing.

Dr Theresa (Terri) A Thorkildsen 

Terri is a Professor of Education and Psychology at the University of Illinois Chicago. She specializes in educational and developmental psychology, focusing on moral motivation and how individuals shape intentions around well-being, civic engagement, and civil society. Her book, Adolescents' Self-Discovery in Groups (2017), explores insights from focus groups. Terri holds a PhD and MS from Purdue University and a BS from the University of Washington.

Prof Richard Traunmüller 

Richard Traunmüller is a Full Professor of Empirical Democracy Research at the University of Mannheim and scientific director of the German Internet Panel. With expertise in data visualization and quantitative political research, he has taught at prestigious institutions and published in leading political science journals.

Kelly Trivedy 

Kelly is an Independent Academic Consultant and Podcaster specialising in Higher and Further Education. With expertise in Educational Development, she provides bespoke consultancy services worldwide on critical thinking, research projects and reflective practice. Kelly is recognised as a Senior Fellow of Advance HE. Additionally, she is a proficient professional photographer.

Dr Alessandra Vigilante 

Alessandra is a Senior Lecturer in Bioinformatics at the Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, specializing in genotype-phenotype interactions and data integration. With significant expertise in genomic and transcriptomic data analysis, she collaborates on multidisciplinary research efforts.

Prof Roger Watt 

Roger is an Emeritus Professor of Psychology at the University of Stirling, specializing in research methods. He introduced innovative teaching methods in statistics, winning awards for program innovation. In 1995 he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh for his scientific research and leadership in Psychology. Roger’s research into human visual perception has had a significant impact, including his involvement in the investigation of the Ladbroke Grove train disaster. He is also an amateur trumpet player, baker, and gardener.

Prof Taha Yasseri 

Taha is a Professor of Sociology at University College Dublin, specializing in Computational Social Science. With a background in physics and complex systems, he has contributed significantly to the field of data science and AI. Taha has held positions at prestigious institutions and has a diverse research portfolio.