Associate Professor Ahmed Imran leads the Research Cluster of Digital inequality and Social change (RC-DISC) at the University of Canberra. He holds a PhD in IS from ANU and MSc in IT from UNSW. His work focuses on IT innovation, digital inequality, eGovernance, and societal transformations through ICT. He has over a decade of academic experience and a prior 16-year military career as a Signals officer. Education: PhD in ICT Adoption in Public Sector of LDCs (ANU, 2010) MSc in IT (UNSW, 2003) Research Interests: Designing ICT interventions for development Contextual factors in IT system design Global South digital transformation challenges Online child protection strategies Awards: ANU Vice Chancellor's Award for Community Outreach Advising & Grants: Leading two major projects: Decarbonisation Pathways of Indonesia's Buses Infrastructure (2024-2025) and Future Jobs Fund - Open Source Institute (2023-2027) Received multiple national/international grants Labs/Teams: Founder and leader of RC-DISC interdisciplinary cluster focusing on digital inequality and social change.
Laurence Brooks is a Professor of Information Systems at the University of Sheffield’s School of Information, Journalism and Communication. Previously, he held roles as a Professor of Technology and Social Responsibility at De Montfort University (DMU) and Senior Lecturer at Brunel University London. His academic journey includes Research Associate positions at the University of Cambridge’s Judge Business School and a Lectureship at the University of York. He holds a BSc from the University of Bristol and a PhD from the University of Liverpool. His research focuses on the ethical implications of emerging technologies like AI and digital extended reality (XR), emphasizing societal impact and responsible innovation. Key areas include ICT4D, eGovernment, healthcare systems, and the interplay between technology and human behavior through theories like Structuration Theory and Actor Network Theory. Brooks has led significant projects, including the H2020-funded TechEthos and SHERPA initiatives, and coordinates the EPSRC Horizon CDT. He is a member of the REF management group at the University of Sheffield and active in professional organizations such as UKAIS and IFIP Working Groups. His teaching spans courses like ‘AI in Organisations’ and ‘Information Systems Modelling,’ reflecting his commitment to bridging academic and practical applications of technology ethics. He also serves as an external examiner for LSE and Loughborough University, furthering his influence in academic standards and ethics review.
Stephen Smith is a Lecturer in Information Systems at Macquarie University's School of Computing. His research focuses on Information Systems (IS), Green IS, IS Security, Emergency Management, and eGovernment. He has contributed to over 72 research outputs with an h-index of 8 and 469 citations. Key projects include designing career information literacy learning systems and exploring predictive models for emergency management scenarios like house fires and pandemics. His research interests emphasize bridging gaps between academic IT curricula and industry needs, as evidenced by studies on employability skill misalignments. He also investigates digital dependency issues such as nomophobia and cyberloafing, exploring organizational interventions and employee adaptability. Collaborations span international contexts, including predictive modeling for Uganda's pandemic response. In 2023, he received the Faculty of Science and Engineering Award for Inter-School Collaboration. His work integrates technology innovation with societal challenges, addressing topics from cashless economies to disaster preparedness through predictive analytics. Grants and projects highlight his focus on practical solutions for workplace and emergency management contexts. Smith collaborates widely across disciplines, contributing to fields like healthcare informatics, smart infrastructure, and digital governance. His lab and team efforts are centered on applying IS solutions to real-world problems in education, public health, and urban safety.
Dag Wiese Schartum is a Professor at the Department of Private Law, Faculty of Law, University of Oslo. His research focuses on eGovernment, data protection, legislative drafting, and legal technology, particularly the automation of legal decision-making in public administration. He explores how legal rules are translated into programming code, ensuring compliance with data protection laws and maintaining rule of law principles in automated systems. He holds a prominent position in legal technology research, addressing challenges such as algorithmic bias mitigation, privacy by design, and the development of automation-friendly legislation. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches between law, computer science, and public policy. Key projects include 'Power and Human Dignity in Digital Working Life' and 'Respire - Responsible Explainable Machine Learning for Sleep-related Respiratory Disorders.' He is affiliated with the Labour Law Group and the Law and Technology research group at the University of Oslo. His publications span over three decades, focusing on topics like semantic interoperability in electronic government, legal definitions in modern laws, and the procedural aspects of intelligible data protection legislation.
Lorenzo Cantoni is a Full Professor at the Faculty of Communication, Culture and Society, Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), where he also serves as Vice Dean and Director of the Institute of Digital Technologies for Communication (ITDxC). He holds the UNESCO Chair in ICT to develop and promote sustainable tourism in World Heritage Sites and leads two international master’s programs: the Master in Digital Fashion Communication (with Sorbonne University) and the Master in International Tourism. His research lies at the intersection of communication, education, and digital media, with strong expertise in eTourism, digital fashion communication, eLearning, usability, ICT4D, and eGovernment . He has explored how digital technologies transform cultural heritage engagement, online education, and sustainable tourism practices. His recent publications (2021–2025) reflect a consistent focus on digital fashion, cultural sustainability, heritage communication, and online learning. These works appear in interdisciplinary journals and books, often analyzing digital strategies, user behaviors, and cross-cultural communication in tourism and fashion contexts. Selected scientific and leadership roles: Chairholder, UNESCO Chair in ICT for Sustainable Tourism in World Heritage Sites (since 2013) Board Member, WHES – World Heritage Experience Switzerland President, IFITT (2014–2018) Pro-Rector for Education and Students’ Experience, USI (2018–2023) Dean, Faculty of Communication, Culture and Society (2010–2014) He has secured significant research funding from the Swiss National Science Foundation and the European Commission , supporting projects on digital heritage, cultural sustainability, eLearning, and smart tourism. He has supervised multiple students and collaborated internationally, particularly in Africa, Latin America, and Europe. Selected research projects: Sustainable, Engaging and CREative Tourism (EU, 2024–2027) Forgotten colors – Rediscovering early medieval wall paintings (SNSF, 2022–2026) AUDITORIUM – Cultural Sustainability Indicators (CAPES, 2019–present) CROSS-FIELD – Digital technologies in learning (SNSF, 2011–2015) He is actively involved in academic service, including peer review for journals such as Tourism Management , Information Technology & Tourism , and Sustainability Science , and has contributed to major publications including the Handbook on Heritage, Sustainable Tourism and Digital Media (2022). Laboratories and teams: He leads the Institute of Digital Technologies for Communication (ITDxC) at USI, which serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research on digital media, communication, and cultural innovation. The institute fosters collaborations across Europe and beyond, particularly in digital heritage and sustainable tourism.
Ines Schwarzbach serves as a Lecturer for Geoinformatics at the Dresden University of Applied Sciences within the Faculty of Spatial Information. She holds the position of Appointee for the laboratory of geoinformatics and for data processing, overseeing technical operations and educational resources in this specialized field. Her academic background includes a Diplom-Ingenieur (Dipl.-Ing.) degree, indicating completion of an advanced engineering program equivalent to a Master's degree in the German higher education system. This qualification forms the foundation for her technical expertise in geospatial technologies and systems. In her research, Schwarzbach focuses on practical applications of geospatial technologies with particular emphasis on: Development and implementation of GIS applications for diverse domains Spatial data management systems and database architectures Web-based geospatial services and interoperability standards Historical map georeferencing and digitization techniques Multimedia presentation of spatial-temporal relationships Evaluation and testing of geoportal software systems Integration of geospatial technologies with archaeological and cultural heritage documentation Her publication record demonstrates a consistent research trajectory from 2002 to 2020, showing evolution from foundational work on Web Map Servers to more sophisticated applications integrating GIS with historical documentation, archaeology, and multimedia presentation systems. A notable pattern in her work is the strong emphasis on practical implementation, educational aspects, and testing methodologies for geospatial technologies. Schwarzbach has secured and contributed to numerous research projects with external partners including: Dresden City Museums - Technical Collections (historical maps georeferencing project, 2018-2019) Technische Sammlungen Dresden (Camera City Dresden project, 2014-2017) Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden (Modernism network exhibition visualization, 2012) MairDumont (SVG visualization methods for cartographic data, 2012) BTU Cottbus (CISAR archaeological information system development, 2007-2012) Saxon State Chancellery (eGovernment initiatives for geospatial services, 2006-2007) As Appointee for the laboratory of geoinformatics, she oversees the technical infrastructure for geospatial computing at the university, ensuring students have access to current technologies and methodologies. Her teaching portfolio includes core courses such as Application Development for Geomatics, GIS Applications, Spatial Data Management, and Geographic Information Systems across multiple degree programs in Geoinformatics and related fields.
Gil Manuel Gonçalves is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto (FEUP) in the Department of Informatics Engineering (DEI). He coordinates the SYSTEC-MANUFACTURING thematic line within the SYSTEC R&D Unit and leads the DIGITAL and InTelligent Industry laboratory, which integrates faculty from Informatics, Electrical and Computer, and Mechanical Engineering departments. Research focus on digital transformation across manufacturing, health, and agri-food sectors Principal Investigator in major EU-funded projects (FP5–Horizon Europe) Chairman of the General Assembly of the National Portuguese ICT Cluster (TICE.PT) Founder of 5 technology-based start-ups, including via the NEOTEC program Scientific Awards: BES Innovation Prize (CNIBES) in 2006 for SeaScout Leadership Roles: Pró-Director for Internationalization (2023–present) Member of Department Council, Scientific Committees, and R&D Institute Councils
Eugenio Zimeo is a Full Professor at the Department of Engineering, University of Sannio, Benevento, where he teaches Networked Systems Programming and Distributed Software Architectures and Systems . He holds a PhD in Computer Science and Electronic Engineering from the University of Naples and has been a central figure in distributed systems research and education. Department of Engineering, University of Sannio (Current) Member, CerICT (Regional ICT Center) Coordinator, CINI Laboratory on Smart Cities and Communities (University of Sannio node) National Coordinator, CINI Focus Group on eGovernment and eInclusion Director, Local Research Unit, University of Sannio (TEMOTEC, PRIN projects) General Chair, I-CiTies 2016 Conference His research interests span software architectures, middleware, cloud and grid computing, autonomic systems, smart cities, IoT, microservices, and service-oriented computing . He has contributed to frameworks for mobile agents, microservices synchronization, and resilient smart city platforms. Zimeo has authored approximately 100 scientific publications, including journal articles and conference papers, with recent work focusing on microservices, distributed tracing, and smart city resilience . His publications show a strong trend toward modern distributed systems, leveraging cloud, fog, and IoT paradigms for urban applications and software engineering innovation. He has received several best paper awards in recognition of his scholarly contributions. Co-organizer, Boosting Services and Information in Adaptive Networked Enterprises (2008) General Chair, I-CiTies 2016 Scientific Responsible, TEMOTEC, OpenGoals, MyOpenGov, PRIN GAUSS and IDEAS projects Reviewer, IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering, ACM Transactions on Software Engineering and Methodology, and other leading journals Zimeo has supervised approximately 200 master's theses and served as tutor or co-tutor for 10 doctoral students . He has led significant research grants, including PRIN GAUSS (2017–present), IDEAS (2014–2017), TEMOTEC (2014–2016), and European project Qualipso (2010–2011), focusing on software quality and open-source platforms. He coordinates the University of Sannio’s node in the CINI National Laboratory on Smart Cities and Communities and leads the associated eGovernment and eInclusion focus group. His research unit develops platforms like PROMENADE for real-time IoT traffic monitoring in smart cities, integrating microservices and DevOps practices.
Maedeh Ghorbanian Zolbin is a doctoral researcher at the Department of Computer Science, Aalto University, Finland. Affiliated with the Lecturer Kujala Sari research group, her work focuses on digital inclusion, eHealth services, and human-computer interaction for aging populations. Her research explores technological accessibility, user experience, and healthcare data management. Research Highlights: Investigates digital health equity through cross-cultural studies of immigrant and nonimmigrant older adults Examines affordance trajectories in online medical record systems Contributes to understanding user expectations in Nordic patient portals Active participant in European Health Data Space discussions Contact: Email: maedeh.ghorbanianzolbin@aalto.fi Postal Address: Konemiehentie 2, 02150 Espoo, Finland
Catherine Chavula is a Lecturer in Information Retrieval at the Department of Computer and Information Sciences, University of Strathclyde. Her research intersects information retrieval, human-computer interaction, and digital equity. Key research areas include: Development of information retrieval systems for African languages Gendered information seeking behaviors Embodiment in digital information interactions Decolonization of GLAM institutions (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, Museums) Digital skills capacity building in African contexts Her recent work has focused on beauty information seeking, menopause-related health information evaluation, and Chichewa language IR systems. She contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals through digital equity initiatives. Selected publications (2024-2025) demonstrate her expertise in scoping reviews, needs assessments, and culturally responsive IR systems. Her conference activities include chairing discussions on African IR development. Scientific recognitions include: Best Paper Award at CHIIR 2025 Images of Research 2025 - AI Insights
Keith Horton is a researcher affiliated with the School of Computing at Edinburgh Napier University, specializing in eGovernment and Information Society studies. He contributed to the Social Informatics Workshop: Extending the Contributions of Professor Rob Kling to the Analysis of Computerization Movements (2005). Research Interests : His work explores the intersection of digital governance, technology adoption in public administration, and the societal impacts of eGovernment frameworks. This aligns with broader themes in AI and Technologies and Special Computer Methods . Projects : He participated in DEMO-Net (2006–2009), a European Commission-funded initiative (£392,400) to establish research norms in eParticipation.
Hanne Sorum is an Associate Professor at the Department of Technology, Kristiania University College, within the School of Economics, Innovation and Technology. She holds a PhD from Copenhagen Business School (CBS) in Denmark and serves as the study program manager for the Bachelor in IT program, specializing in Interactive Design. Her academic roles include teaching interaction design, impact evaluation techniques, and supervising bachelor’s and master’s theses. She also acts as an external examiner for multiple Norwegian higher education institutions. Her research focuses on information systems, human-computer interaction (HCI), interaction design, user testing, eGovernment, and VR experiences. She contributes to the Behavioral Lab and the PIT Lab (Perception and Interactive Technology) at Kristiania. Hanne has published widely in national and international conferences/journals and engages in public discourse via columns in Norwegian newspapers. While her publications are numerous, specific article details are not listed. No scientific awards are mentioned. She actively advises students and manages educational programs but no grants are detailed. She collaborates within interdisciplinary research teams at her affiliated labs.
Spiros Sirmakessis is a Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Peloponnese. He is the Director of the eBusiness and User Experience Lab, focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in fostering startup ecosystems and promoting research for social benefit. His roles include Head of the Technology Transfer Unit, member of the Research Academic Computer Technology Institute (CTI), and elected member of the University’s Governing Council. Educated at the University of Patras, he holds a PhD in Computer Engineering and has coordinated over 100 research projects funded by EU, national, and private sources. His research spans Information Systems, eBusiness, Human-Computer Interaction, and Data Mining. He teaches courses on Interaction Design and e-Business, emphasizing practical applications of technology in education and industry. Notable contributions include developing personalized e-learning systems, enhancing e-government services, and exploring user experience in mobile and web applications. His work bridges technical innovation with societal impact, such as promoting sustainable development through STEAM education and blue economy initiatives. Publications span journals and conferences, addressing topics like adaptive learning communities, web mining, and UX design. His projects often involve cross-disciplinary collaboration and practical implementation, reflecting a commitment to applied research with real-world outcomes.
Prof. Jürgen Stember is a Professor of Administrative Sciences at Harz University of Applied Sciences since 1999 and has served as Dean of the Department of Administrative Sciences until 2018. He currently holds the position of President of the Rectors' Conference of Universities for Public Service in Germany (RKHÖD), re-elected until 2025. His expertise lies in economic development, administrative reform, digitalization, and eGovernment. He has led numerous research projects, including the 'Economic Development Lab' (WiföLAB) and contributed to studies on bureaucracy reduction and open government initiatives. Education: PhD in Political Science (1992), University of Münster Diploma in Geography and Political Science (1990), University of Münster Research Interests: Focus on integrating practical administration with academic research, particularly in municipal development, digital transformation of public services, and innovation strategies. He emphasizes reducing bureaucratic hurdles for businesses and enhancing administrative efficiency through technology. Key Projects: Leading nationwide university network for economic development (HNWifö) Development of 'Economic Development Monitor' and 'Administrative Monitor' Scientific coordination of RKHÖD's initiatives and the 'Regional Open Government Laboratories' Grants & Collaborations: Involved in projects funded by Saxony-Anhalt's Ministry of Economics and collaborations with institutions like the Materna GmbH and Syncwork AG. Supported start-up promotion through the 'TransInno_LSA' project. Labs/Teams: Founder of the Economic Development Lab (WiföLAB) and part of the Doctoral Center for Social, Health, and Economic Sciences (SGW) in Saxony-Anhalt.
Justus Lenz serves as a Visiting Lecturer at the Willy Brandt School of Public Policy, University of Erfurt. He concurrently leads the Liberal Institut at the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom. Previously, he held roles such as Head of Fiscal Policy and Digital Transformation at the German Family Business Association. Lenz holds a Master of Public Policy from the Willy Brandt School and dual degrees in Philosophy & Economics from the Universities of Bayreuth (Germany) and Valladolid (Spain). His research focuses on Institutional Economics, eGovernment systems, and digital transformation in policy contexts. He is affiliated with the Wilhelm-Röpke-Institute in Erfurt. Education: Master of Public Policy, Willy Brandt School of Public Policy Bachelor/Philosophy & Economics, Universities of Bayreuth (Germany) and Valladolid (Spain) His work bridges theoretical institutional frameworks with practical digital governance solutions, emphasizing fiscal policy modernization and digital transformation in public administration. Lenz has contributed to policy design for family businesses and advocates for liberal economic principles through his Foundation role. No formal academic awards or grants are listed in his profile, though his professional contributions reflect sustained engagement in applied policy research. He is associated with the Wilhelm-Röpke-Institute, focusing on market-oriented economic policies and institutional analysis. Teaching responsibilities at the Brandt School include modules related to public policy design and digital governance.
