Dr Yehia Elkhatib he/him

My research passion is to develop data-driven solutions to optimise complex systems. My work spans the fields of data science and distributed computing systems, and implements them across interdisciplinary domains such as environmental science and multimedia applications. Through first hand experience as well as shared knowledge, I recognise that diversity strengthens scientific inquiry. As such, my vision is to create research partnerships that embrace different perspectives and educational cultures. My research group focuses on creating inclusive learning environments and developing technical skills that bridge diverse educational backgrounds. I’m particularly interested in forming collaborations with researchers from underrepresented regions, especially those from African and Asian educational systems.

I’m passionate about interdisciplinary research that makes Computing Science accessible across diverse domains. I have more than 15 years of experience leading and working on projects with researchers and practitioners from different communities, such as hydrologists, TV producers, cloud operators, policy makers, and local communities. I have worked with policy makers on considerations regarding the resilience of critical national infrastructures, particularly the Internet backbone and how it connects to other key exchange points in Europe and the US. Furthermore, I have worked with various multimedia practitioners (e.g. BBC, Technicolor) to deliver new forms of multimedia experiences. Throughout all such working relationships, I have found interdisciplinary research to be quite challenging in terms of forming mutual understanding, as well as the most rewarding in terms of having great potential for real-world impact. I’d like to supervise projects that explore how computing science methodologies can be adapted for different disciplines and learning contexts. My supervision style is a mix of active coaching and radical candor, designed to understand students’ backgrounds and engage on a human level. I believe in creating supportive environments where students feel heard and can contribute meaningfully. My graduated PhD students are now working at the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Jaguar Land Rover, University of São Paulo, Sheffield Hallam University, and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

My EDI commitment is demonstrated through concrete action and measurable results. As EDI and Athena Swan Officer at my previous university, I led our department’s first successful Athena Swan application, implementing a 64-item action plan that increased female PhD students from 13% to 38%. I established monthly events and organized numerous inclusive activities including writing workshops, social events, and skills-building sessions. These initiatives created spaces for community building and skill development across all levels. At Glasgow, I am a member of the School’s EDI Committee.

As a Middle Eastern researcher in Western academia with numerous experiences of both positive and negative natures, I bring a unique perspective that I’ve learned to embrace as a strength. My experience of being “”different”” has become a powerful motivator to create inclusive environments where others feel welcomed and valued in their academic journey. This dual perspective has enriched my understanding of how to build truly supportive research communities.