Colin Allison

Dr Colin Allison is an Honorary Research Professor at the University of St Andrews' School of Computer Science, specializing in Multi-User Virtual Worlds (Metaverses), Distributed Systems, Computer Networks, and Quality of Service (QoS). He holds a PhD in Computer Science from the University of St Andrews, an M.Sc. in Computing from the University of Dundee, and an M.A. in Sociology from the University of Edinburgh.

His research focuses on immersive learning environments, virtual world infrastructure, and educational technologies. Notable projects include leading the Immersive Learning Research Network (iLRN), managing Open Virtual Worlds initiatives, and investigating Quality of Service in distributed systems. Dr. Allison has organized international conferences and published extensively on virtual reality applications in education and cultural heritage.

Key contributions include advancing scalable learning environments like Finesse, exploring video fingerprinting for digital asset management, and investigating covert channels in internet protocols. He has collaborated on interdisciplinary projects such as LAVA (virtual archaeology) and the Global Smart Spaces initiative.

Dr. Allison has secured grants for projects like the European Learning Grid Infrastructure (ELeGI) and has served as Principal Investigator for initiatives such as Interface and the Scottish Metropolis Area Networks project. His work bridges academic research with practical applications in education, technology, and heritage preservation.

He has advised on multiple research projects and has been a keynote speaker at conferences on internet security, immersive education, and virtual worlds.