Martin Weinel

Dr. Martin Weinel is a Research Associate in the School of Social Sciences at Cardiff University. His work spans Science and Technology Studies (STS), sociology of knowledge, organizational studies, and socio-legal research. He focuses on qualitative analysis but incorporates quantitative insights. An active trade unionist, he advocates for improved working conditions at Cardiff University, criticizing the AAU’s funding model and management practices. As an environmentalist, he addresses climate challenges while reflecting on personal and societal complicity in environmental harm.

• Education: PhD in Technological Decision-Making (Cardiff University, 2010), MScD in Cracking the Core (Cardiff University, 2006).

His research interests include:

• Industry 4.0’s impact on labor and skills in steel production
• AI applications in manufacturing and worker accountability
• Green skills development for sustainable industries
• Counterfeit scientific controversies in policy contexts
• Legal academia’s interdisciplinary challenges

Recent work highlights include leading the ALCHIMIA project (AI integration in steelmaking), contributing to the European Steel Skills Agenda (ESSA), and co-editing Industry 4.0 and the Road to Sustainable Steelmaking in Europe. His Experts and the Will of the People (2020) explores science’s role in populist politics.

He has advised on EU-funded initiatives like WaterWatt (gamification for energy efficiency) and DroMoSPlan (drone safety in steel plants). Collaborates with global networks such as ESTEP and the Centre for the Study of Knowledge, Expertise, and Science. His activism and academic rigor address systemic challenges in academia and industry.