Simon Wells

Dr. Simon Wells is a Lecturer at the School of Computing Engineering and the Built Environment, Edinburgh Napier University. His research bridges Artificial Intelligence, Argumentative Dialogue, and Human-Computer Interaction, focusing on formal models of reasoning and communication. He has developed computational systems enabling argumentation between humans and machines, applied across scientific, educational, and policy domains.

• University of Dundee (2011)
• University of Aberdeen (2012)
• Edinburgh Napier University (2014–present)

His work integrates Behaviour Change and Interaction Design through gamification and persuasive technology, particularly in sustainable transport systems. Projects like SUPERHUB and West of Scotland Herring Hunt highlight his interdisciplinary approach, combining AI with environmental and cultural studies.

Recent publications analyze the synergy between formal dialogue models and Large Language Models, offering insights into argument visualization, socio-technical trust, and segmentation-based behavior interventions. Key research areas include argumentation theory, evolutionary robotics, and digital ethnography.

• PhD Supervisor: Yagmur Yigit, Dana Khartabil
• Co-Supervisor: Thomas Farrenkopf

Funded by the William Grant Foundation and Natural Environment Research Council, his projects span from citizen-science tools in Brazil to historical socio-economic studies in Scotland. Collaborations include institutions like the Open Microscopy Environment and SICSA.