Hi, I'm Dr Ryan Thomas Williams

Academic Biography

Dr Ryan Thomas Williams is an education technology consultant specialising in AI ethics and responsible innovation in education, and a course tutor on the online DBA programmes at Teesside University. He also holds honorary and visiting roles at the University of Liverpool and the University of Essex. He serves as an External Examiner for doctoral candidates at the University of Glasgow. Ryan holds a PhD from Teesside University and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA).

He serves as an Advisor to the UK Research Integrity Office (UKRIO), where he contributes to national discussions on research governance and the ethical use of emerging technologies. His work focuses on the ethical implications of integrating artificial intelligence into education and research, with particular interests in AI ethics, data protection, and the responsible methodological use of generative AI for data analysis and decision-making.

Ryan’s research has been published in several business and social science journals, including Practice, Frontiers in Education, and the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University. He serves as an Editorial Board Member for Frontiers in Research Metrics and Analytics and Practice: Contemporary Issues in Professional Learning.

He has taught extensively across UK universities, primarily leading research methods modules on MBA and DBA programmes as a module leader, lecturer, and project supervisor. His teaching emphasises the ethical dimensions of research design and digital innovation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he developed a series of research methods workshops for NHS employees transitioning into managerial roles, funded by the European Social Fund.

As a Google for Education Certified Trainer, Ryan contributes to discussions on emerging teaching and learning technologies by providing insights and feedback to Google. He is also a professional member of the British Computer Society (MBCS) and the Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISec).

Alongside his academic work, Ryan provides consultancy and advisory services in AI ethics, responsible AI policy, education technology strategy, and digital project delivery. He supports institutions in implementing and evaluating digital tools, often participating in governance processes such as procurement discussions and change control boards.

Ryan has worked with Philip Morris International and Abyasa on education and digital projects. In 2014, he was recognised at Buckingham Palace after winning Teesside University’s Business Idea on a Beermat competition.