Dr. Alex Wood

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Alex Wood is an Assistant Professor in Economic Sociology at the University of Cambridge, with his research focusing on the implications of digital technology on power relations, working conditions, and the transformation of capitalism. He is particularly investigating how digital platforms reshape power dynamics in the workplace and the potential consequences of artificial intelligence on labor regimes. Having completed his PhD in Sociology at the University of Cambridge in 2016, Alex has worked at universities including Oxford, Birmingham, and Bristol before returning to Cambridge's Department of Sociology in September 2024. In 2020, he published the book 'Despotism on Demand: The Power of Flexible Workplaces' and has authored 20 journal articles and book chapters on various topics, including precarious scheduling, the gig economy, and algorithmic management. Alex's work, funded by the British Academy, has influenced neo-Marxist theories regarding work and class, as well as Polanyian theories of the social shaping of technology. He is available to supervise postgraduate students on topics related to neo-Marxist theory, platform work, and the effects of AI on job quality and worker resistance.

Research Interests

Awards

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SAGE Prizes for Innovation Excellence

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SAGE Prizes for Innovation Excellence

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University of Oxford Reward and Recognition Scheme Award for Excellence

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Best Student

Courses

SOC 9: Global Capitalism MPhil (Political Economic Pathway)

Requirements for University of Cambridge

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.7
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:25
Reading
Required:25
Writing
Required:25
Speaking
Required:25
Total
Required:110
Prerequisites
UK Bachelor's Degree with good Upper Second Class Honours or international equivalent Background in international relations, politics, law, economics, security or history is a definite asset
Application Checklist
  • Two academic references
  • Official transcripts
  • CV/Resume
  • Personal statement (approx 500 words)
  • Research proposal (1-2 pages/500 words)
  • Application fee (£50)
Specialization Notes

Standard postgraduate requirements for Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) and related humanities departments.