Dr Adam Linson

I am a Lecturer (Asst. Prof.) in Computing and Communications, in the Faculty of STEM at the Open University (UK). I develop models to simulate neurobiological and behavioural processes, to help understand aspects of mental health (psychiatry), the environment (ecology), and culture (music cognition). I also do research in philosophy, mainly related to science and technology. My academic collaborations span Scotland and the UK, Europe, Japan, and North America. I was previously an Anniversary Fellow in Computing and Philosophy at the University of Stirling, and a Fellow or Visiting Fellow at UCL, University of Edinburgh, and University of Oxford. 

Some of my work has potential implications for practitioners and policymakers, which I explore in part as a member of the Innogen Institute (a joint venture between the OU and the University of Edinburgh that facilitates connections between life science innovation and Scottish policymakers). Beyond the life sciences, I am a team member of two current research projects. One is on AI and Education (£25K pilot funding), in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh, that combines computer vision, machine learning (ML), data visualisation and interactive interfaces (HCI), to provide educators with insights into student learning processes. The other incorporates Digital Humanities, in collaboration with the University of Glasgow, a 2.4 million euro ERC Advanced Grant on 'Art and Inequality in the Post-Black Death Century' (c.1348 to 1500).

Apart from academic research, I perform and compose music across various contexts. My main instrument is the double bass, and current musical collaborations typically involve improvisation and digital media. In 2021, I was commissioned to compose a new work, partnering with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, that premiered live on BBC Radio 3. I continue to perform internationally at festivals, concert halls, clubs and galleries, and can be heard on a range of live and studio recordings.