About
Robin Smith is a Professor of Sociology at Cardiff University's School of Social Sciences, specializing in ethnomethodology, urban sociology, and qualitative research methods. He also serves as a Visiting Professor at the University of the Witwatersrand. As the UK Principal Investigator for the ESRC-funded ORA7 project 'Visions of Policing,' he examines visual technologies' role in policing accountability. His research explores urban outreach, mountain rescue practices, and the social organization of mobility.
- Education:
- PhD in Sociology, Cardiff University (2010)
- MSc in Qualitative Research Methods, Cardiff University (2005)
- BSc (Hons) in Sociology and Criminology, Cardiff University (2004)
- Roles:
- MSc Sociology Program Leader
- Convenor of Cardiff Ethnomethodology, Interaction, and Talk (CEEIT) research group
- Academic Lead for Wales’ EMCA Doctoral Network
- Editorial Board member of Discourse, Context, and Media and Qualitative Research
His research interests include ethnography, interactionist theory, and the sociological analysis of public spaces, mobility, and technology. Notable awards include repeated recognitions as 'Most Outstanding Staff Member' and 'Outstanding Research Supervisor.'
Smith collaborates internationally on projects like the ORA7 initiative and leads teams exploring topics such as homelessness outreach, mountain rescue practices, and the integration of AI/robotics into social contexts.
