Dr. Colin Gavaghan

Professor

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Biography

Colin Gavaghan is a Professor of Digital Futures at the University of Bristol Law School and at the Bristol Digital Futures Institute. His research focuses on the interaction of law with new technologies, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence, robotics, and internet law. He also explores genetic and reproductive technologies alongside medical law and ethics. After graduating with an LLB and PhD from the University of Glasgow, he spent a significant part of his career in New Zealand, where he held the New Zealand Law Foundation Chair in Law and Emerging Technologies. Gavaghan has led a multidisciplinary project addressing the legal, social, and ethical implications of artificial intelligence in government contexts. His notable works include the book "Citizen’s Guide to Artificial Intelligence" published by MIT Press in 2020. He has served on various governmental committees, such as the Advisory Committee on Assisted Reproductive Technology and the Digital Council in New Zealand, and has extensive experience as an expert witness in significant legal cases. In 2023, he returned to the UK after 13 years in Dunedin to take up his current positions at the University of Bristol.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor of Digital Futures

2023-01-01 — Present

University of Bristol Law School • Bristol, England

Focus on the intersection of law and new technologies, engaging in both teaching and research.

Holder of New Zealand Law Foundation Chair in Law and Emerging Technologies

2009-01-01 — 2022-12-31

University of Otago • Dunedin, New Zealand

Led multidisciplinary projects concerning the legal, social, and ethical implications of AI.

Requirements for University of Bristol

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:19
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:22
Speaking
Required:22
Total
Required:88
Prerequisites
Upper second-class MSci honours degree in physics or related discipline Or a relevant postgraduate MSc
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Academic transcripts
  • Two academic references
  • Personal statement
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Research statement/proposal
Specialization Notes

Department of Physics research themes include Astrophysics, Materials and Devices, Particle Physics, and Quantum and Soft Matter.