Andrew Macfarlane

Dr Andrew Macfarlane is a Reader in Information Retrieval at the School of Mathematics, Computer Science and Engineering, City, University of London, and a key member of the Centre for HCI Design. His research bridges information retrieval, human-computer interaction, and accessibility, with a focus on improving search technologies for users with disabilities such as dyslexia and aphasia.

He holds a PhD in Information Science from City, University of London, supervised by Professors Robertson and McCann (Imperial College London), an MSc in Advanced Methods in Computer Science (University of London), and a BSc in Computer Science (University of Westminster). He also earned a PGCert in Academic Practice from City.

His research interests center on AI techniques for information retrieval and filtering, image retrieval, knowledge organization, and the intersection of IR with cognitive and physical disabilities. He explores how search systems can be made more inclusive and effective for diverse user groups, particularly in professional and journalistic contexts.

His recent publications reflect a strong trend toward human-centered IR, with increasing focus on AI in journalism, accessibility, and sociotechnical design. Themes include dyslexia and aphasia in search, machine learning in multimedia retrieval, and the integration of AI into editorial workflows, emphasizing user needs and ethical design.

• Fellow, British Computer Society (2018)
• Fellow, Higher Education Academy (2017)
• Chartered Member (CITP), BCS (2004)
• Chartered Engineer, Engineering Council (2001)

Andrew Macfarlane has supervised numerous PhD students in information science and computer science, covering topics from music IR to ontology-based search. He has served as principal investigator on projects like 'PhotoBrief' (TSB-funded) and co-investigator on 'SocialSensor'. His extensive professional service includes roles on program committees for SIGIR, CIKM, ECIR, and editorial board membership for the Journal of Information Science.

He is actively involved in the BCS Information Retrieval Specialist Group, where he is a long-standing member and former chair, and contributes to the design and evaluation of search systems through both academic research and real-world applications.