Paul Ralph

Dr. Paul Ralph is a Professor in the Faculty of Computer Science at Dalhousie University, where he leads the Dalhousie Software Engineering Lab (DalSEL). His work bridges software engineering, human-computer interaction, and project management, with a focus on empirical research and social sustainability in software development.

Education:

• PhD in Computer Science, University of British Columbia
• BSc in Computer Science, Memorial University
• BComm in Business, Memorial University

Dr. Ralph's research centers on the sociotechnical aspects of software engineering, particularly how team dynamics, ethics, and human factors influence software success. He rejects pseudoscientific models like Waterfall and SDLC, and avoids AI/ML/data science, instead emphasizing rigorous qualitative and quantitative human-participant studies. His lab is known for its work on socially sustainable software engineering and evidence standards in computing research.

His recent publications reflect a strong trend toward methodological rigor, ethical computing, and human-centered practices. Themes include empirical standards, agile methods, requirements engineering, and the social impact of technology. He publishes in top venues like IEEE TSE and ICSE, and has authored over 80 scholarly works.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• Award-winning scientist (multiple unspecified awards)
• Editor-in-Chief, SIGSOFT Empirical Standards for Software Engineering Research

Dr. Ralph is actively involved in mentoring and funding graduate students, particularly through external scholarships like NSERC, Killam, and Banting. He prioritizes applicants from underrepresented groups and emphasizes original, non-AI-generated work. His lab offers strong industry connections, professional development, and support for tenure-track aspirations among postdocs.

Labs and Research Groups:

• Dalhousie Software Engineering Lab (DalSEL): Focuses on empirical, human-centered software engineering research, with active projects in social sustainability and evidence standards.