Charles Weir

Dr. Charles Weir is a Senior Lecturer in Security and Protection Science at Lancaster University, affiliated with the Computing and Communications department and Security Lancaster. With 40 years of experience, he specializes in software development practices, cybersecurity, and critical national infrastructure (CNI). His work spans pioneering object-oriented and agile development in the UK, leading technical innovations like the world's first smartphone (Ericsson R380) and Android payments app (EE Cash on Tap). He currently leads research at Security Lancaster to improve software security and privacy through developer-focused interventions.

His research interests include future computing risks, secure programming practices, and interdisciplinary approaches to cybersecurity. Notable projects include the Interlinked initiative exploring CNI computing risks by 2040, HIPSTER (Health IoT Privacy Security), and Motivating Jenny developer security initiatives.

Weir has contributed to over 40 publications, including recent works on evidence-based risk assessment in healthcare software and design fiction for anticipating cybersecurity challenges. He actively collaborates with industry and academia, leading projects funded by organizations like CyberASAP and the Data Science Institute. His datasets include trials evaluating developer security workshops and surveys of Android developer practices.

Grants and projects highlight his focus on practical security interventions, such as the £1.2M HIPSTER project (2021–2023) and the Interlinked Phase 3 (2024) exploring future CNI vulnerabilities. He is also involved in educational initiatives like the Faultless Programming Guide and Dafny verification tool adoption.