Alumna fuses Tech and Anthropology in a new publication
Congratulations to alumna Lianne Potter (MA Engaged Anthropology, 2017) on the recent release of her latest work, a contributing ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø in the anthology EmTech Anthropology: Careers at the Frontier, published in August.
This book explores the intersection of anthropology and emerging technology fields, featuring insights from anthropologists, like Lianne, who are shaping the future of industries such as AI, robotics, and cybersecurity.
A technologist and cybersecurity professional, Lianne’s ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø, ‘Towards an Anthro-Centric Cybersecurity,’ draws on her academic background to present a human-centred approach to technology, highlighting the cultural dynamics of how we interact with technology in our everyday lives.
By applying the principles and research methods earnt on her Engaged Anthropology master’s degree, Lianne focuses on how anthropological insights can significantly enhance cybersecurity practices. She emphasises that while technology is often seen as the primary defence against data breaches, the human element which is responsible for 85-95% of security incidents, should not be overlooked.
Lianne said: “Too often in cybersecurity, we focus on the technology to provide the bulk of protection for our sensitive data. However, those of us working in the cybersecurity industry can ill-afford to neglect that cybersecurity culture, especially around communication and the implementation of security control, is incredibly important in reducing the likelihood and impact of security incidents.â€
In her ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø, Lianne also shares her journey from academia to industry, offering practical advice for applying anthropological methods in a tech-driven world. Her work is designed to inspire anthropology graduates and professionals interested in bridging the gap between humanities and technology.
EmTech Anthropology: Careers at the Frontier follows Lianne’s previous contribution to The Rise of the Cyber Women: Volume 2 (Lisa Ventura MBE, ed.), where she first explored the role of human-centred approaches in cybersecurity.
The book is out now and can be purchased at
Further Information
Mared Anthony
Communications and PR Officer: Alumni Relations
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: mared.anthony@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: +447482256996