Two academics from University of the West of Scotland’s (UWS) School of Business and Creative Industries have been awarded grants from the prestigious Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) Research Awards Programme.

The long-term impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in accounting and inclusivity in theatre are to be explored in new research.

ABOVE: Dr Michael Xin Guo and Dr Ann-Christine Simke

Dr Michael Xin Guo, a Senior Lecturer in Accounting, has received funding for a project exploring the impact of AI on accounting in the UK, investigating how its role has evolved and ethical challenges.

He said: “I am incredibly pleased to receive this funding from RSE. Accountancy is often cited as a role that is threatened by AI and at risk of being automated. This project will provide insights into the skills and knowledge required for accounting professionals to excel.”

Dr Ann-Christine Simke, a lecturer in Performance, has been awarded funding for a joint project with Dr Anika Marschall from Utrecht University in the Netherlands. The project will look at several European theatre institutions, comparing and discussing different approaches to developing anti-racist practice and policies in regards to staff infrastructures and audiences with the aim to create a more socially-just and, ultimately, a more representative theatre industry.

She said: “Theatre is about telling stories, but a lack of diversity means that certain stories are not being told. We’re looking to understand how different theatres are tackling this change at an institutional level, identifying potential solutions and general good practise as we look to give a diverse range of voices a platform.”

"Both of these projects have the potential to be influential, informing future practise and policy in their respective fields; while also contributing towards addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals."
Professor James A. Miller FRSE

Professor James A. Miller FRSE, Principal and Vice-Chancellor at UWS, added: “Both of these projects have the potential to be influential, informing future practise and policy in their respective fields; while also contributing towards addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The RSE Research Awards Programme helps the research community make a real and lasting impact in society, and I am very proud that our researchers and the quality of their research are being supported and recognised.”

RSE Vice President, Research, Professor Anne Anderson OBE FRSE said: “The Research Awards Programme of the RSE plays a vital role in supporting Scotland's thriving research community. These awardees will help to advance our knowledge, address global challenges, and contribute positively to Scottish society. On behalf of the RSE, I offer my congratulations to these leading researchers and their international colleagues and look forward to following the outcomes of their work."

The Programme - which runs twice a year - aims to support Scotland's research sector by nurturing promising talent, stimulating research in Scotland, and promoting international collaboration.