Bridgette Wessels

Professor Bridgette Wessels holds the position of Professor of Social Inequalities at the University of Glasgow's School of Sociological & Cultural Studies within the College of Social Sciences. Her research focuses on social change in the digital age, particularly addressing inequalities, digital divides, and cultural participation. She has a PhD from the University of Sussex (2000), an MA from the University of York (1994), and a BA from the University of Durham.

• Affiliations: Glasgow Social and Digital Change Group, ESRC Productivity Institute Scottish Forum, Digital Technology and Social Change hub (CIVIS network)
• Roles: Editor of Participations: Journal of Audience and Reception Studies, Co-Lead of the ESRC Productivity Institute's Scottish Forum

Her research interests include digital society dynamics, methodological innovation, and the societal impacts of technology. Recent projects explore inclusive productivity, AI ethics in smart homes, and telehealth equity. Key contributions include foundational work on digital divides, e-inclusion policies, and participatory design in health services.

Her publications span film audience studies, smart city technologies, and digital sociology. She leads interdisciplinary teams on EU and UKRI-funded projects, emphasizing policy impact in areas like open data, health equity, and regional film culture.

Grants and collaborations include funding from AHRC, ESRC, EU Horizon, and industry partners like ProQuest and Securekey. She advises on research strategies and has influenced UK and EU policies on digital inclusion and responsible innovation.