Rebecka Ångström
1. Describe your role and what it is that you do overall and on a day-to-day basis.
As a Principal Researcher in the technology industry, I blend social science with technology development, engaging in both academic and applied research. Which means my work is all about building knowledge from both social and technical insights.
In my work, I explore how we use technology today and its implications for the future, leading cross-disciplinary and collaborative research projects to study various phenomena. Key parts of my job include planning and conducting research activities, along with writing papers and reports. I also spend a lot of my time reading – academic papers, industry reports and tech news – to deepen my understanding and spark new ideas.
2. What is the attraction of doing research?
Research is a fantastic way to nurture and channel your curiosity. It allows you to dive wholeheartedly into a phenomenon, puzzle, or challenge, exploring the whys and hows of what you discover.
For me, the field that has captured my interest is how humans interact, engage, and, in a sense, merge with digital technology. I am especially intrigued by challenges like trust, integrity, safety and other ethical aspects. The intersection between academic and applied research is particularly stimulating because it lets me delve into both knowledge and theory development while contributing to practical implications and solutions.
3. Why did you choose to do your PhD at SSE?
I joined SSE and the House of Innovation (Department of Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Technology) through the IMIT research school. The PhD program at SSE offers a great foundation for a journey into academic research. The experience also takes place in an international environment where you get to meet and collaborate with internationally recognized researchers—it's truly a chance to learn from the best.
4. Following the time at SSE, do you have any words of wisdom or advice you would like to share with our current students?
Explore everything that's on offer! You'll have the chance to attend seminars with world-leading researchers, dive into courses on intriguing topics, travel to conferences, and engage in countless fascinating discussions. Yes, it will be challenging at times but also rewarding. You'll not only grow your skills and knowledge but also expand your view of the world.
5. What are three words that sum up your time at SSE?
Challenging, enlightening, transformative.