The Centre for Data Science and AI welcomes two new Research Fellows
Published: 27 May 2026
Dr Lawrence Bull and Dr James Tanner join the Centre
The Centre for Data Science and AI is delighted to welcome two new Research Fellows, Dr Lawrence Bull and Dr James Tanner, whose work will contribute to the Centre’s growing interdisciplinary research work.
Dr Bull is researching machine learning for physical systems, particularly tools to encode structure (via domain knowledge) into data-driven models - mostly condition/health monitoring of machines and infrastructure, utilising telemetry data. Applications have included planes, trains, automobiles, and wind turbines. By encoding domain expertise into statistical models, complex representations can be built from interpretable units, increasing the value of sensing and fusing physics with data.
Dr Tanner's research background combines approaches from linguistics, speech science, and quantitative modelling. Combining his research on speech variability and his experience in developing commercial speech synthesis technology, James's research in collaboration with colleagues from the UK, US, Canada, and Japan focuses how linguistic information is represented within AI speech models and characterising how AI-generated 'deepfake' speech compares with human speech.
Both Dr Bull and Dr Tanner are looking forward to developing new interdisciplinary collaborations through the Centre and contributing to its mission of advancing creative, impactful and responsible data science and AI research – using data science and AI to build a better future for all.
First published: 27 May 2026