Rob LawlorView profile
Lecturer
Dr Rob Lawlor is a Lecturer in Applied Ethics at the University of Leeds, affiliated with the Inter-Disciplinary Ethics Applied Centre (IDEA) within the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures. He teaches ethics across multiple faculties including Engineering, Medicine, Chemistry, Environment, Media, Dentistry, and Business, demonstrating exceptional interdisciplinary reach. His teaching portfolio includes undergraduate modules, the MA in Biomedical and Health Care Ethics, the MA in Applied and Professional Ethics, and PhD supervision within the Faculty of Engineering's Doctoral Training Centres. Education PhD in Philosophy (2005) from University of Reading - "Gradability in Ethics" MPhil in Philosophy (2003) from King's College London BA in Philosophy (2001) from University of Reading Dr Lawlor's research has evolved from foundational work in normative ethics to impactful applied ethics, with particular focus on climate change ethics and engineering ethics. His early work centered on "the structure of moral theories" and "the demandingness of ethics," as evidenced by his 2009 monograph "Shades of Goodness: Gradability, Demandingness and the Structure of Moral Theories." Since 2014, his research has increasingly addressed practical ethical challenges, particularly in climate change mitigation and professional responsibility in engineering. His AHRC-funded fellowship on "Climate Change, Ethics and Responsibility" marked a significant shift toward interdisciplinary collaboration with climate scientists and policymakers. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trajectory toward practical application of ethical frameworks in urgent global challenges. His 15 most recent articles show consistent focus on climate change ethics (6 articles), engineering ethics (5 articles), medical ethics (3 articles), and foundational moral philosophy (1 article). This distribution reflects his growing emphasis on translating ethical theory into practical guidance for professionals facing complex moral dilemmas in climate science, engineering practice, and healthcare settings. Scientific Recognition AHRC research fellowship (early career) in 2014 for "Climate Change, Ethics and Responsibility: an interdisciplinary approach" Book "Shades of Goodness" received significant scholarly attention, with endorsements from prominent philosophers including Brad Hooker Dr Lawlor actively supervises PhD students and contributes to multiple graduate programs. His current postgraduate researchers include Gabriela Arriagada Bruneau, Sophie Goddard, Zacharus Gudmunsen, Daniel Davis, and Chris McClean. His teaching extends beyond traditional philosophy students to professionals across disciplines, reflecting his commitment to making ethics relevant to real-world practice. His work on developing ethical frameworks for climate services and engineering practice demonstrates practical impact beyond academia. As Deputy Director for Postgraduate Research at IDEA, Dr Lawlor plays a significant leadership role in shaping ethics education at Leeds. His work with the "Can Professional Institutions Save the World?" project demonstrates engagement with how professional bodies can address global challenges through ethical transformation. His interdisciplinary approach bridges philosophy with practical fields, creating meaningful dialogue between theoretical ethics and professional practice.
