Portrait photograph of: Alison Stowell

Alison Stowell

Country Of Origin: United Kingdom

Degree: PhD Organisation, Work and Technology, 2012


Senior Lecturer in Business and Management, Anglia Ruskin University


After working for IBM, Alison came to Lancaster to study on the MSc ITMOC – and her experience on the programme prompted her to study for PhD which would enable her to build a new career within academia.

When I started my MSc I discovered the Department of Organisation, Work and Technology which had many insightful lecturers who conveyed complex ideas well and simply. When reflecting upon the ideas outside of the sessions my mind was challenged frequently.

I soon realised how multifaceted organisational life was, how embedded technology is and I learnt to question why things were in place. Unbeknown to me at the time I discovered my research passion that focuses on the impact of discarded technology and how organisational management are responding to these challenges.

I wrote my dissertation on the topic, and the MSc acted as a catalyst for my desire to continue researching the area. Pursuing a PhD appeared to be the obvious next step.

I chose to study for my PhD at Lancaster for many reasons. Other than the world-renowned reputation of the Management School and the calibre of the academics the University has a wonderful study environment.

The University is a hub of activity where you are able to join clubs, attend seminars on many topics, and meet a truly international community of wonderful people, all set in a beautiful area of the world. I was fortunate enough to be supervised by Dr Martin Brigham, Dr Colin Brown and Professor Lucas Introna. I found their interest both in my work and personal development most encouraging and second to none.

Since studying at Lancaster I have had the opportunity to work with many of the academics in the Department of Organisation, Work and Technology. The Department is a very special community where you are encouraged to take part fully in University and Departmental life – for example, organising PhD conferences, delivering seminars and lectures, attending guest lectures and international conferences, organising networks and taking part in all social activities. I feel envious of anyone who is at the start of their PhD as the experience can be both rewarding and empowering and was one that I relished.

Since completing my PhD and the skills I gained at Lancaster have enabled me to make the transition into academia. I spent time working as a Senior Lecturer at Anglia Ruskin University and recently rejoined the Department of Organisation Work and Technology.