Science, Technology and Innovation Studies

Science and technology - part of everyday life with an impact on all aspects of society. That's where we come in...

We seek to answer the big questions about how societies both influence and are influenced by science, medicine and technology.

Our department has an international reputation as a leading centre of excellence in science and technology studies, established through the legacies of the Science Studies Unit and the Research Centre for Social Sciences.

About

Since the founding of the department in 1966, we offer a unique interdisciplinary environment in which we address vital questions about the world we live in.

Programmes

We offer a diverse, innovative and exciting range of undergraduate courses and postgraduate taught and research opportunities.

Research

We produce innovative and interdisciplinary research and deliver public policy advice and consultancy on the socio-economic implications of technology and innovation.

People

Find out more about the whole team: the academic staff and their research interests, PhD students and their thesis subjects, and the professional services colleagues who keep it all in working order.

News

See the latest news updates from Science, Technology and Innovation Studies.

Contact

We are based at High School Yards, a 5-10 minute walk from George Square: a lively and vibrant hub (especially in August during the Festival Fringe).

24/08/2022

Science, Technology and Innovation Studies

Young Academy of Scotland appoints SPS’ Dr Michael Barany as new member

Dr Michael Barany, whose research and teaching focuses on the history and culture of modern science and mathematics, has been appointed to the Royal Society of Edinburgh’s Young Academy of Scotland.

05/07/2022

Centre of African Studies

Remote academic support for PhD students affected by the war on Ukraine

Academics beyond Borders is now calling for applications from PhD students enrolled in Ukrainian universities. There are 14 remote places available for candidates whose research at their home universities is being affected by the war on Ukraine. All places are funded by the University of Edinburgh and require no fees from any students accepted onto the scheme.

30/06/2022

Science, Technology and Innovation Studies

SPS Lecturer in Energy, Environment and Society co-chairs the Energy Research & Social Science conference

Dr Kirsten Jenkins from Science, Technology and Innovation Studies (STIS) co-chaired the recent International Conference on Energy Research & Social Science. The conference - the ‘premier global forum for exploring the nexus of energy and society’ - hosted discussions from world-leading experts about tackling the climate crisis.

12/05/2022

Science, Technology and Innovation Studies

REF 2021: Sociology, including Science, Technology and Innovation Studies (STIS), at the University of Edinburgh

The results of the REF 2021 exercise demonstrated that our Sociology and STIS subject areas are excelling. Our submission was ranked top in the UK by Research Professional for the overall quality and breadth of our research.

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School of Social and Political Science