Philosophy of Machine Learning Expert, Dr Emily Sullivan, to join the Centre for Technomoral Futures
We are excited to announce that Dr Emily Sullivan, an expert at the intersection of the philosophy of science and machine learning, will be joining the University of Edinburgh in August 2025 as Senior Lecturer in the Philosophy of Technology. She will also take up the role of Co-Director at the Centre for Technomoral Futures, working alongside current Director, Professor Shannon Vallor.
Currently Associate Professor in Philosophy at Utrecht University, Dr Sullivan's research explores the intersection of epistemology, artificial intelligence and machine learning, and technology ethics. Her work critically examines how values shape technological development and implementation, particularly focusing on the ethical and epistemic challenges of explainable AI, responsible innovation and the social impact of algorithmic systems.
Dr Sullivan earned her PhD in Philosophy from Fordham University in New York and previously held positions at Delft University of Technology and Eindhoven University of Technology. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges philosophy with computer science, cognitive science and technology studies, resulting in publications in leading journals including Australasian Journal of Philosophy and Philosophy of Science.
Dr Sullivan was also recently awarded a European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant worth €1.5 million, one of only ten researchers to receive this honour. Her funded project, "Machine Learning in Science and Society: A Dangerous Toy?", will examine the increasing adoption of deep learning across scientific disciplines and society.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr Sullivan to the Centre for Technomoral Futures. Her pioneering work aligns perfectly with our mission, as Dr Sullivan brings exactly the kind of integrative thinking between technical and moral domains that the Centre was established to foster. Her experience and knowledge will be invaluable as we continue to address the complex challenges for the future posed by new and emerging technologies.”
The appointment strengthens the University of Edinburgh's position as a leader in critical approaches to AI and technology ethics and reinforces its commitment to addressing the complex moral challenges of digital and technological innovation. At the Centre for Technomoral Futures, Dr Sullivan will help deepen our research community’s integration of technical and moral expertise while advancing the Centre’s educational and engagement opportunities in the Edinburgh City region, UK and internationally to support the overall mission.
To find out more about Dr Sullivan’s research, please visit her website.